The race to bring prescriptions directly to customers’ doors is heating up as retail giants Amazon and Walmart expand their same-day medication delivery services across the U.S. Amid rising demand for convenience and the shift toward telemedicine, these companies aim to meet customers where they are—often within hours of placing an order.
Amazon is rapidly scaling its pharmaceutical operations, promising same-day delivery access for nearly half of its U.S. customer base by the end of 2025. The company is building 20 mini-pharmacies near major distribution hubs and has already launched 10 prescription processing centers nationwide. Hannah McClellan, vice president of Amazon Pharmacy, describes the strategy as a “pharmacy in your pocket,” offering fast delivery and 24/7 pharmacist access.
Meanwhile, Walmart has expanded its same-day delivery program to nearly every U.S. state, offering options that range from rapid drop-offs with groceries to even half-hour delivery windows. According to pharmacy executive Kevin Host, customer demand is driving the service: surveys show delivery is the number one feature shoppers want from their pharmacy experience.
Major pharmacy chains aren’t standing still either. CVS Health, which began same-day delivery in 2017, fulfilled over four million quick-delivery prescriptions in 2023. Walgreens has a nationwide service, including two-hour delivery options at hundreds of locations. Grocery delivery companies like Instacart have also entered the space, offering pharmacy delivery through partnerships with Costco, Wegmans, and Publix.
This growing trend aligns with a larger shift in health care habits. With more patients using telehealth, the need for prompt access to medications—especially antibiotics or COVID-19 treatments—is more pressing than ever. Amazon’s internal research suggests that faster delivery boosts medication adherence, prompting the company to double down on its pharmacy operations.
Still, not all patients are ready to give up the in-store experience. For many, the deciding factor remains cost. Same-day services often come with added fees, and for those managing long-term conditions through insurance, savings might not justify the switch. Insurance plans can also complicate things, with some limiting coverage to preferred pharmacies. Others simply enjoy the interaction and consultation available at their local pharmacy.
“Sometimes the wait is a little long, but that’s my only gripe,” said 72-year-old Don Watson of Indianapolis, who says he’s happy to pick up his medications in person—for now.
As convenience competes with cost and familiarity, the future of prescription delivery may depend not just on speed, but on trust, affordability, and a personalized care experience.
Discover more from Weekly Voice
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
