Both Kroger and Walgreens are viable options for pharmacy services. Walgreens offers greater location convenience and drive-through availability, while Kroger is recognized for customer service. Price comparison is recommended for both.
| Attribute | Kroger Pharmacy | Walgreens |
|---|---|---|
| Prescription Filling Speed | Utilizes automation to increase speed. Filling times vary depending on complexity and how busy the pharmacy is. Shorter wait times correlate with higher customer ratings. | Filling times vary depending on how busy the pharmacy is. Usually takes 15–20 minutes if you tell the tech you'd like to wait in the store while they fill it. Chain-store pharmacists have quotas to meet. |
| Prescription Cost | Considered 'moderately expensive'. Accepts most insurance plans and prescription discount cards. Offers Rx Savings Club. Recommends checking prices with tools like RxSaver. | Accepts most major prescription plans. Rx Savings Finder tool available. Prices can vary; Walmart and Costco often have better prices. Prescription Savings Club discontinued in August 2024. |
| Insurance Acceptance | Generally accepts most insurance plans, including Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage plans. Confirm with your provider or the pharmacy. | Accepts most major prescription plans and hundreds of local, regional and specialty plans. Check with your local Walgreens to confirm. |
| Availability of Generic Medications | Generic medications are available and typically less expensive. | Walgreens dispenses generic medications. |
| Pharmacist Consultation Availability and Quality | Pharmacists are available for consultations, medication therapy management, and personalized advice. Clinical specialists assist with counseling, education, and side effect management. | Pharmacists are available for consultations and can provide expert advice. Free prescription and general health advice 24/7 from a pharmacy expert in a live chat. |
| Drive-Thru Pharmacy Service | Many locations offer drive-thru service. | Offers drive-thru pick up at over 7,300 pharmacies nationwide. Can also purchase over 60 front-end, nonprescription products at the drive-thru. |
| 24-Hour Pharmacy Service | Not all are 24 hours, but many offer extended hours, including evenings and weekends. | Some pharmacies offer 24-hour service. |
| Vaccination Services Offered | A wide range of vaccines are available, including flu, COVID-19, Tdap, shingles, and more. Walk-ins are welcome. | A wide variety of vaccines are offered, including those for COVID-19, flu, RSV, and more. |
| Over-the-Counter Medication Selection | Offers a selection of over-the-counter medications. | Provides a wide selection of over-the-counter medications. |
| Convenience of Location | Often located within Kroger grocery stores. | With a large number of locations, pharmacies are generally convenient. |
| Online Prescription Refills | Provides online prescription refills through its website and mobile app. | Refills are easy using the Walgreens app by scanning the barcode. |
| Customer Service Quality | Received recognition from Forbes for providing exceptional customer service, particularly in its pharmacies. | Seeks individuals who can contribute positively to their mission and uphold their reputation for quality service. |