SEATTLE—Amazon Pharmacy has announced two significant updates to simplify medication management and make it more accessible for millions of Americans, particularly caregivers and Medicare beneficiaries.
The first new feature enables caregivers to manage medications for their loved ones through their own Amazon Pharmacy accounts. Customers can now securely invite a trusted individual to oversee prescriptions, place orders, and ensure timely medication delivery, providing much-needed support to the estimated 53 million U.S. adults who care for aging family members.
The second enhancement increases Medicare beneficiaries' access to PillPack from Amazon Pharmacy. PillPack simplifies complex medication routines by delivering pre-sorted, clearly labeled packets by date and time, helping patients adhere to multiple prescriptions. Now, over 50 million Medicare Part D enrollees managing several medications daily are eligible to use this service with their insurance.
Studies have consistently shown that 20% to 30% of prescriptions are never filled, and approximately 50% of medications for chronic conditions are not taken as prescribed. Two-thirds of caregivers report medication management issues, including medication supply, administration, clinical judgments, and communication with care recipients or healthcare providers.
“These updates deliver what our customers have been asking for—simpler medication management for themselves and their loved ones,” said John Love, vice president of Amazon Pharmacy. “Whether you’re a caregiver juggling multiple prescriptions for an aging parent, or a customer who could benefit from the convenience of pre-sorted packets delivered reliably each month, we’re removing barriers and making pharmacy work better for you.”
“Caregiving comes with enormous responsibilities, and managing multiple medications is one of the most challenging aspects,” said Tess Carey, senior pharmacist at Amazon Pharmacy. “Amazon Pharmacy’s new caregiver feature provides a secure, streamlined way for trusted individuals to help manage prescriptions and place orders 24/7, when and where convenient for them—all through their own Amazon accounts. This ensures medications arrive on time, giving both caregivers and patients greater peace of mind.”
Amazon Pharmacy continues to innovate by offering full-service, digital-first solutions, including free Same-Day Delivery in select cities and support for most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. Prime members also receive exclusive savings through RxPass and other programs. The PillPack service is free to use, with customers only paying for their medications.
Customers can enroll in either new feature through their Amazon Pharmacy account.
For more information, visit Amazon Pharmacy.
FAQs
Who is eligible to enroll as a caregiver?
Amazon Pharmacy customers can invite a family member, trusted friend, or health care professional to manage their medications on their behalf. The caregiver will need to sign in or join Amazon Pharmacy in order to use the caregiver feature.
How much does PillPack from Amazon Pharmacy cost?
There is no additional charge for Amazon Pharmacy customers to use the PillPack service. Customers only pay for their medications (30-day copays or out-of-pocket expenses if applicable).
Does PillPack from Amazon Pharmacy work with insurance?
Yes, PillPack from Amazon Pharmacy works with most health insurance plans, HSA and FSA accounts, RxPass, automatically applied eligible manufacturer coupons, and all other Prime benefits. PillPack from Amazon Pharmacy also accepts government insurances like Medicare Part D and Medicaid, depending on the state and its restrictions on automatic refills.
Which medications can be included in PillPack?
Most prescriptions that come in a pill form can be included in PillPack. Medications that come in blister packs; dissolvable tablets; gummies and chewable, controlled substances; and refrigerated items cannot be put in packets. But customers can always order those medications separately through Amazon Pharmacy and we will deliver them either in bottles or in their original packaging.
Can I include vitamins and supplements in PillPack?
At this time, only prescription medications can be added to PillPack, but we will be launching this feature soon. In the coming months, you will be able to add a curated selection of commonly taken vitamins and over-the-counter medications to your PillPack from Amazon Pharmacy. This will include popular supplements such as Vitamin D3 and fish oil.
