Bartell Drugs to offer vaccination program

SEATTLE In preparation for the flu season, Bartell Drugs has announced the launch of a vaccination program that includes in-store vaccinations, pre-paid FluGram cards and a new program targeting businesses.

The 56-store chain kicks off, on Oct. 1, a schedule of more than 70 in-store vaccination clinics. In addition to clinics, many stores are offering shots by appointment or on a walk-in basis. Cost for the shots is $28 and Medicare Part B is accepted.

Bartell is also the exclusive Puget Sound partner with Novartis Vaccines to offer FluGram, a pre-paid gift card that allows patient to reserve influenza vaccinations before and during the influenza season. The FluGram gift cards are available for $28 at all Bartell locations in King, Snohomish and Pierce counties.

The FluGram program is designed to make influenza vaccination more convenient and accessible. Vaccinations will be administered by a Bartell pharmacist between Oct. 1 and Dec. 31. The FluGram gift card reserves an influenza vaccination for adults (and children aged 14 to 17, with parent approval) and is valid through Dec. 31, 2008.

For the first time, the pharmacy retailer has launched a flu vaccination program for businesses and groups. Employers may take advantage of the FluGram program, providing the pre-paid vaccination cards to employees and encouraging them to visit a Bartell location on their own. As part of the initiative, the retailer has implemented a “turn-key,” on-site flu shot clinic for groups of 25 or more, including businesses and senior facilities, where Bartell’s pharmacists come to the workplace. Discounts are available depending on the number of employees.

“This is a way for businesses, large and small, to decrease sick time and lost productivity,” stated Wade Schutze, pharmacy district manager at Bartell. “Getting vaccinated against influenza also helps protect those around you who may be at higher risk from complications.”