By George Anderson
Reuters Health reports that consumers are increasingly turning to mail-order pharmacies for convenience and to save money on prescriptions.
According to NDCHealth, a healthcare information service company, mail-order generated 15.7% of all retail pharmacy sales in 2001.
A survey conducted by the Pharmacy Benefit Management Institute (PBMI) found that of the consumers who use mail-order pharmacy services:
- Eighty-eight percent are pleased with its overall performance
- Seventy percent report being very satisfied
- Ninety-five percent say they pay less than they would at a retail store pharmacy.
- Eighty-two percent believe that it is more convenient than going to a store.
Moderator's Comment: How will mail-order and online prescription sales continue to affect the pharmacy marketplace? [George Anderson - Moderator]