Additional Coverage:
- 8 Reasons CVS Is the Worst Drugstore Ever (financebuzz.com)
Why Many Shoppers Are Saying “No Thanks” to CVS
Choosing where to fill your prescriptions or grab those last-minute essentials might seem like a small decision, but it can actually make a big difference in your wallet and your peace of mind. And when it comes to pharmacy giants, CVS often finds itself in the crosshairs of consumer dissatisfaction. From long waits to high prices, it seems America’s ubiquitous red-and-white storefronts are facing a bit of a backlash.
Let’s break down some of the main reasons why CVS might not be your go-to spot:
1. The Pharmacy is Slow
It’s not just your imagination – many customers report lengthy wait times at CVS pharmacies. This isn’t just anecdotal grumbling; the company has faced official repercussions.
In March 2024, the Ohio Board of Pharmacy slapped CVS with a hefty $1.5 million in penalties for various safety violations, many of which were attributed to understaffing. Delayed refills and insufficient staff to handle the volume of prescriptions were key issues.
CVS has since stated it’s working to improve staffing, workflows, and hiring more technicians.
2. High Prices
Another frequent complaint revolves around CVS’s higher prices for over-the-counter medications. For example, a 90-count bottle of Zyrtec might set you back $47.49 at CVS, while a similar bottle at Target could be $39.99. While there’s no official statement from CVS, many speculate this is the “convenience cost” – charging more for immediate access compared to online or less accessible retailers.
3. Expensive Prescriptions
The price tag isn’t just an issue for items on the shelves; prescriptions can also be on the pricier side at CVS. The chain has acknowledged this and recently announced plans for a “cost-based” pricing policy.
This shift moves away from the traditional “cross-subsidization” model, where some drugs were priced higher to offset others. Now, CVS aims to base prices on what they paid for the medication, including retail markups.
4. Shady Ethics
CVS, along with other major chains like Walmart and Walgreens, has faced significant criticism and legal action for its role in the opioid crisis. The company, as part of a larger settlement, paid millions to counties in Ohio for exacerbating the crisis. Since then, CVS has implemented measures to course-correct, including safe disposal sites, educational programs, increased naloxone accessibility, and prescription monitoring.
5. Unsafe Prescriptions
Alarmingly, CVS pharmacies across the country have been cited for dispensing incorrect medications, leading to injuries and even potential fatalities in some cases. This serious issue is often linked back to understaffing, a recurring theme that has led to substantial penalties from state boards.
6. Dirty Stores
Understaffing has also contributed to documented cases of unclean stores. Beyond being unpleasant for customers, this raises significant safety concerns. Reports have included loose pills on pharmacy floors, room-temperature vaccines, and other concerning hygiene and maintenance lapses.
7. Poor Customer Service
Some shoppers have reported frustrating and even rude customer service interactions, including being shunted to chatbots, struggling to reach local management, and even being disconnected mid-call. While this could be a symptom of broader retail challenges or understaffing, it’s a frustration many customers attribute to CVS specifically.
8. Bad-Quality Photo Centers
While convenient, CVS’s photo centers often draw criticism for the quality of their prints. Customers frequently complain about issues with saturation and clarity. While quality can vary by location, it might point to a larger quality control issue across the chain, suggesting you might be better off taking your precious memories elsewhere.
The Bottom Line
Despite its widespread presence and accessibility, CVS is often viewed unfavorably by many consumers. Beyond public opinion, the company has faced multiple lawsuits and penalties for serious operational issues. For those looking to keep more cash in their pockets and prioritize reliable service, exploring other pharmacies, especially local independent shops, might be a smart move.
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Read More About This Story:
- 8 Reasons CVS Is the Worst Drugstore Ever (financebuzz.com)