First CVS Pharmacy Opens in Target

As you have heard before, CVS acquired Target’s pharmacy business for $1.9 billion this past summer.

Well, the time has finally come for the first CVS pharmacy to open in a Target store. This grand opening occurred in the Charlotte, North Carolina, area on February 3, 2016.

With the merger, Target pharmacy’s loyalty program has been discontinued, and the companies are currently encouraging patients to use CVS’ ExtraCare loyalty program. In addition, Target’s in-store clinics have been rebranded as CVS MinuteClinics.

Target and CVS are trying to make the transition as smooth as possible for their customers. However, here are a few important things that will or may change:

1. Requesting Refills

During the transition, patients should still use the Healthful mobile app, Target.com/pharmacy, or the Target pharmacy mobile texting program.

Once a Target pharmacy has been rebranded as CVS pharmacy, however, patients will need to change the way they refill prescriptions. They can refill through CVS.com or through the CVS pharmacy mobile app.

2. Medication Cost

Target offered $4 generic programs, which have not been offered by CVS in the past. In light of this, Target is advising patients to contact their plan providers to verify their pharmacy networks, copays, and other coverage options.

3. Rewards Programs

As of December 1, 2015, patients can no longer accrue points through the Target Pharmacy Rewards program. Once the pharmacy has been rebranded as CVS pharmacy, however, patients can accrue points through ExtraCare Pharmacy & Health Rewards.

These points can only be redeemed at CVS and will not be beneficial for those who do not shop at CVS.

4. Prescription Bottle Appearance

Target has been known for its unique prescription bottle, which is called the ClearRx bottle. This is one component that differentiates Target pharmacies from other pharmacies.

Target believes that this uniquely designed bottle helps patients better manage their medications.

This belief is based on the following features:

• The ClearRx bottle uses a color system for identification purposes in the form of a colored ring that fits around the neck of the medication bottle. Each family member has his or her own color, allowing for easy identification.
• The ClearRx bottle has an easy-to-read label, which makes it easier for those who have difficulty seeing.
• The ClearRx bottle includes a permanent sleeve that stores the package information for easy reference.
• The ClearRx bottle offers a cap that is easy to open and close without sacrificing the childproof functionality. This specifically designed cap really makes a difference for patients who have difficulty opening and closing medication bottles, such as those with arthritis or Parkinson’s disease.

It remains to be seen whether the ClearRx bottle will survive the transition from Target to CVS.

It is expected to take several more months for all of the Target pharmacies to be rebranded as CVS. It will be interesting to see how it all turns out.