UrgentRx introduces multipack boxes
UrgentRx is expanding its product line with UrgentRx Fast Powders multipack boxes, which contain 10 single-dose packets of the brand’s fast-acting, flavored powder medications.
CDR
Walgreens extends reach as Part D preferred pharmacy
Walgreen Co. has more than doubled its preferred pharmacy network relationships with national Medicare Part D plan sponsors for 2015. Walgreens said Tuesday that for the 2015 plan year it will be a preferred pharmacy for nine plan sponsors, compared with three in the prior coverage period.
Rexall helps deliver life-saving vaccines
This flu season, Rexall is partnering with Amref Health Africa to launch "Shot For Shot," a campaign to provide life-saving vaccinations to children.
APhA campaign touts med sync programs
The American Pharmacists Association Foundation has launched Align My Refills, a campaign that provides resources and points patients and caregivers to their local pharmacist for help in maintaining medication regimens.
Haggen becomes bigger pharmacy player
A major acquisition by regional food and drug chain Haggen Inc. will not only expand its store count nearly tenfold but also its number of pharmacies. Haggen will boost its pharmacy count from less than 20 to more than 100 with the store acquisition.
Sam’s Club offers flu shot price match
Sam’s Club has initiated a price match program for flu vaccinations at its pharmacies. The Walmart warehouse club chain on Monday announced the availability of seasonal flu shots for the 2014-15 flu season for members and nonmembers at its 599 pharmacy locations nationwide.
Walgreens spurs app integration of Balance Rewards API
Walgreen Co. is holding a developer contest to promote integration of the application program interface (API) for its Balance Rewards customer loyalty program. The API enables users of other apps to earn Balance Rewards loyalty program points for making healthy choices.
PTCB modifies recertification requirements for pharmacy techs
Starting next year, the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) will implement two changes in recertification requirements for Certified Pharmacy Technicians (CPhTs).
Study: Carve-out Rx benefits offer advantages in cost, care
Pharmacy benefits included as part of an employer’s total health insurance package, known as a "carve-in" model, provide cost savings and more effective care, according to a study by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association and Prime Therapeutics.
CVS research examines rising specialty drug costs
Research from CVS Health highlights the sharp growth in spending for specialty medications, which is far outpacing expenditures on traditional prescription drugs.
NCPA survey: Patients like med sync programs
A new survey by the National Community Pharmacists Association finds high satisfaction among patients enrolled in medication refill synchronization programs.
PediaCare rolls out Smooth Melts
PediaCare has introduced Smooth Melts chewable, flavored fever relief tablets for children. Parent company Prestige Brands Holdings Inc. said PediaCare Smooth Melts are designed to make it easier for parents and caregivers to get kids to take the medication.
SpermCheck grows pharmacy chain distribution
SpermCheck has expanded its retail distribution of its at-home male fertility test to more pharmacy retailers. The company said the SpermCheck Fertility test is now available at CVS/pharmacy, Kinney Drugs and Target, along with Walgreens, Rite Aid and Meijer. Priced at $39.
Sales surge in September at Walgreens
A strong pharmacy performance hoisted same-store sales at Walgreen Co. in September. Walgreens said Friday that sales in comparable stores surged 7.9% in September, marking the drug chain’s largest monthly increase in calendar 2014. Comp-store sales had gained 3.7% in August.
First MinuteClinics open in Corpus Christi
MinuteClinic has opened its first walk-in medical clinics in the Corpus Christi, Texas, metropolitan area. Parent company CVS Health said Thursday that two new MinuteClinics have opened inside CVS/pharmacy stores in Corpus Christi and Portland, Texas.
Walgreens, WebMD team up to promote wellness
Walgreen Co. has partnered with WebMD Health Corp. to give customers direct access to the online health information provider’s virtual wellness coaching programs and educational content.