A&P’s mobile, refill programs simplify Rx

A&P may be a supermarket chain, but judging by its string of new health-and-wellness initiatives and strong emphasis on pharmacy, one could argue that it really is a pharmacy with a grocery store wrapped around it.


Through A&P’s network of 200 pharmacies and 605 pharmacists, the company is aggressively looking for ways to improve the health and well-being of its shoppers. And that includes improving medication adherence. 


To that end, the company recently launched a new opt-in email/text-message reminder service. How it works: Patients can opt in to receive either an email or text notifying them that their prescription, which they or their doctor have called in for refill, is ready for pickup. If it isn’t picked up within three days, a reminder email or text will be sent. Also, if there are no refills left on a prescription and the doctor hasn’t called back the pharmacy within a day, a notification will be sent to the patient letting him or her know that the doctor has not yet returned the pharmacy’s call.


A&P also now offers opt-in automatic refills on maintenance prescriptions and, if patients are signed up for the email/text notification service, they will be notified when that refill is ready.


“We found it is very good for adherence. [Going forward], we are looking at some other adherence programs,” said VP pharmacy Robin Page, who noted that it was too early to provide details on future programs.


A&P also is further expanding into immunizations by certifying pharmacists, and has rolled out a free prescription delivery service in all of its pharmacies. To boost customer loyalty and help patients save money, A&P also offers its Live Better! Wellness Club, which includes savings on generic drugs, free prenatal and children’s prescription vitamins, and discounts on pet prescriptions, among other savings.