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Pharmacies: Rite Aid vs. Walmart Pharmacy

Quick Verdict

Both Rite Aid and Walmart Pharmacy offer similar services, but Walmart Pharmacy stands out for its low-cost generic medications and convenient locations within Walmart stores. However, Rite Aid has a wellness+ rewards program and accreditation from the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. Customer service is a concern for both, and Rite Aid's store closures may impact accessibility.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeRite AidWalmart Pharmacy
NameRite AidWalmart Pharmacy
ServicesPrescription medications, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, immunizations, health clinics, and wellness services. Online prescription refills, home delivery, and specialty pharmacy services.Prescription filling, vaccinations, over-the-counter medications, pharmacist consultation, online refills, and drive-thru service.
Prescription Filling SpeedNot availableVaries; 15 minutes to 48 hours depending on factors like staffing and stock.
Prescription Cost (with and without insurance)Not availableWith insurance: Accepts most major plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. Without insurance: $4 generic program for a 30-day supply; $10 for a 90-day supply of many generics.
Availability of Generic MedicationsOffers both brand-name and generic medicationsKnown for generic medication programs; many generics available for $4 for a 30-day supply.
Insurance AcceptanceAccepts most major insurance plansAccepts most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, and collaborates with various private insurance providers.
Vaccination Services OfferedOffers various vaccines, including flu, RSV, COVID-19, hepatitis A and B, HPV, MMR, chickenpox, shingles, and moreOffers COVID-19, flu, shingles, HPV, meningitis, pneumonia, Tdap, chickenpox, and hepatitis A and B vaccinations. Most vaccines available without an appointment.
Over-the-Counter Medication SelectionOffers a wide selection of over-the-counter drugs and health and wellness productsOffers a wide range of over-the-counter medications and health products.
Pharmacist Consultation AvailabilityPharmacists are available to answer questions and provide advice on medicationsPharmacists are available for consultations and medication counseling.
Drive-Thru Pharmacy ServiceSome locations offer drive-thru service for prescription pick-upMany Walmart Pharmacies offer drive-thru service for convenient prescription pick-up.
24-Hour Pharmacy AvailabilitySome locations are open 24 hoursNot all Walmart Pharmacies are open 24 hours. Check local pharmacy hours.
Convenience of LocationWidespread network of stores for easy accessibilityTypically located within Walmart stores, making them convenient for many customers.
Online Prescription RefillsOffers online prescription refills through their website and mobile appOffers online prescription refills through their website and mobile app.
Customer Service QualityCustomer service reviews are mixed.Varies; some report positive experiences, others report issues such as long wait times and unhelpful staff.
PriceNot availableNot available
AccreditationAccredited by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy.Not available
Rewards ProgramOffers a wellness+ rewards programNot available

Overall Comparison

Walmart Pharmacy: $4 for a 30-day supply of many generics; Rite Aid: Wellness+ rewards program.

Pros and Cons

Rite Aid

Pros:
  • Widespread network of stores for easy accessibility
  • Offers a wellness+ rewards program
  • Offers both brand-name and generic medications
  • Accepts most major insurance plans
  • Offers various vaccines, including flu, RSV, COVID-19, hepatitis A and B, HPV, MMR, chickenpox, shingles, and more
  • Offers a wide selection of over-the-counter drugs and health and wellness products
  • Pharmacists are available to answer questions and provide advice on medications
  • Offers online prescription refills through their website and mobile app
  • Some locations offer drive-thru service for prescription pick-up
  • Some locations are open 24 hours
Cons:
  • Some reviews mention issues with customer service, including rude pharmacists and unhelpful staff
  • Some reviews note long wait times and delays in filling prescriptions
  • Due to bankruptcy, Rite Aid has been closing stores
  • Drive-up window was closed due to short staffing (in one review)

Walmart Pharmacy

Pros:
  • Low-cost generic medications
  • Accepts most major insurance plans
  • Wide range of vaccinations available
  • Convenient locations within Walmart stores
  • Online prescription refills
  • Drive-thru service available at many locations
Cons:
  • Prescription filling speed can vary
  • Customer service quality varies
  • Not all pharmacies are open 24 hours

User Experiences and Feedback