Vaccines are essential for staying healthy, and CVS Pharmacy offers a wide range of them. Understanding CVS vaccine prices helps you plan and save money.
This article explains costs, insurance coverage, and ways to reduce expenses. It’s your go-to guide for navigating vaccine costs at CVS.
Why Vaccines Matter
Vaccines protect against serious illnesses like flu, COVID-19, and shingles. They help your immune system fight diseases without getting sick.
CVS provides over 15 vaccines, including those for children and adults. Getting vaccinated keeps you and your community safe.
Most CVS locations have certified immunizers on duty. You can walk in or schedule appointments online. Knowing vaccine costs upfront helps you budget. This is especially important for those without insurance.
Overview of CVS Vaccine Prices
CVS vaccine prices vary depending on the vaccine and insurance coverage. Many vaccines are free with most insurance plans, including Medicare Part B.
Without insurance, costs can range from $60 to over $200. Checking prices beforehand avoids surprises.
Prices differ between CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic locations. MinuteClinics, found in over 1,100 CVS stores, may charge slightly different rates. Always compare costs if both options are available. This ensures you get the best deal.
Common Vaccines and Their Costs
Here’s a list of typical out-of-pocket prices at CVS Pharmacy without insurance:
- Flu Shot (Standard): $62.99
- Flu Shot (High-Dose, 65+): $106.99
- COVID-19 Vaccine: $198.99–$201.99
- Shingles Vaccine: Around $200 per dose (two doses needed)
- Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis): Approximately $80–$100
These prices are estimates and may vary by location. Always confirm with your local CVS.
Insurance and Vaccine Coverage
Most insurance plans cover routine vaccines at no cost. The Affordable Care Act requires private plans to cover preventive vaccines without copays.
Medicare Part B covers flu, pneumococcal, and hepatitis B vaccines fully. Medicare Part D often covers shingles vaccines.
Check with your insurance provider before visiting CVS. Ensure CVS is in-network to avoid extra costs. If uninsured, CVS vaccine prices can be high, but discounts are available. Always ask the pharmacist to run your insurance card.
Medicare and Medicaid Coverage
Medicare Part B covers 100% of flu and pneumococcal vaccines. Hepatitis B is covered for high-risk individuals.
Medicaid typically covers vaccines for eligible patients. Confirm coverage with your plan to avoid unexpected charges.
Some states have stricter Medicaid rules. Call CVS or your provider to verify. This ensures you know what’s covered. It’s a simple step to save money.
MinuteClinic vs. CVS Pharmacy
CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic both offer vaccines, but there are differences. CVS Pharmacy has pharmacists administer shots. MinuteClinics, staffed by medical providers, offer vaccines for patients 18 months and older. MinuteClinics don’t provide COVID-19 vaccines.
Prices may vary slightly between the two. For example, MinuteClinic might charge more for certain vaccines. Compare costs at your local CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic. This helps you find the lowest price.
Vaccines Available at MinuteClinic
MinuteClinics offer vaccines like:
- Hepatitis A and B
- Tdap
- Shingles
- Pneumonia
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Check availability, as not all locations carry every vaccine. Appointments may be required at MinuteClinics.
How to Save on CVS Vaccine Prices
Saving on CVS vaccine prices is possible with the right approach. Join the ExtraCare program to earn $2 ExtraBucks Rewards for every vaccine. You also get a $5 off $20 coupon after vaccination. These rewards lower your overall costs.
GoodRx coupons can reduce out-of-pocket prices. Local health departments may offer free or low-cost vaccines. Always explore these options if you’re uninsured. They make vaccines more affordable.
Using GoodRx for Discounts
GoodRx provides coupons for vaccines at CVS. For example, a shingles vaccine might cost less with a coupon.
Check GoodRx.com for current discounts. Show the coupon to the pharmacist to apply savings.
Be aware that GoodRx prices are estimates. Actual costs may vary slightly. It’s still a great way to cut expenses. This is especially helpful for high-cost vaccines like COVID-19 or shingles.
Table of Vaccine Prices at CVS vs. Competitors
Here’s a comparison of out-of-pocket vaccine prices at CVS and other pharmacies:
| Vaccine | CVS Pharmacy | Walgreens | Walmart |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flu (Standard) | $62.99 | $59.99 | $55.00 |
| Flu (High-Dose) | $106.99 | $102.99 | $100.00 |
| COVID-19 | $198.99–$201.99 | $201.99 | $195.00 |
| Shingles (Per Dose) | ~$200 | ~$195 | ~$190 |
| Tdap | ~$80–$100 | ~$85 | ~$80 |
Prices are approximate and vary by location. Check with each pharmacy for exact costs.
Challenges with Vaccine Costs
Some patients face unexpected charges. For example, insurance may not cover a vaccine if CVS is out-of-network.
Billing issues, like outdated codes for new COVID-19 vaccines, can lead to charges. This happened to some patients in 2023.
MinuteClinic and CVS Pharmacy are separate entities. This can cause confusion if insurance covers one but not the other. Always clarify coverage before getting vaccinated. Calling ahead prevents costly mistakes.
Addressing Billing Issues
If charged unexpectedly, contact CVS customer service at 1-800-SHOP-CVS. Provide your insurance details to resolve billing errors. You can also dispute charges with your credit card company. Keep records of all communications.
Check your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from your insurer. It shows what was covered and what you owe. This helps you understand and fix billing issues. Persistence is key to resolving disputes.
Special Considerations for COVID-19 Vaccines
COVID-19 vaccines were free during the pandemic due to federal funding. The Bridge Access Program, which ended in August 2024, covered costs for uninsured patients. Now, uninsured individuals pay $198.99–$201.99 at CVS. This can be a shock for some.
CVS offers Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, and Novavax COVID-19 vaccines. Check which vaccine is available at your location. Schedule appointments online to ensure availability. This helps you plan for costs.
High-Risk Groups and Vaccines
Certain groups need specific vaccines. For example, adults 65+ should get high-dose flu shots. Pregnant women may need RSV vaccines.
CVS tailors recommendations based on CDC guidelines. Discuss your needs with a pharmacist.
High-risk patients may qualify for free vaccines through local health programs. Check with your health department. This is a good option if insurance doesn’t cover costs. It ensures access to critical vaccines.
Planning Your Vaccination Visit
Schedule appointments on CVS.com or the CVS Pharmacy app. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments guarantee availability. Bring your insurance card and ID. This speeds up the process.
For multiple vaccines, ask about getting them in one visit. The CDC says this is safe and saves time. CVS allows up to four people to schedule together. This is great for families or caregivers.
Timing Your Vaccines
Get flu shots in September or October for best protection. COVID-19 vaccines should be updated annually, per CDC advice. Other vaccines, like Tdap, need boosters every 10 years. Plan visits based on these schedules.
Check vaccine availability at your CVS. Some locations may run low during peak seasons. Booking early ensures you get your shot. This avoids delays during flu season.
Community and Travel Vaccines
CVS offers vaccines for travel, like hepatitis A and typhoid. These may cost more, as they’re not always covered by insurance.
Check CDC travel guidelines for your destination. Call CVS to confirm vaccine availability.
Local health departments may provide travel vaccines at lower costs. Compare prices if you’re paying out-of-pocket. This is especially important for expensive vaccines. Planning ahead saves money.
Summary
Understanding CVS vaccine prices helps you make informed decisions. Most vaccines are free with insurance, but out-of-pocket costs range from $60 to over $200.
Use ExtraCare rewards, GoodRx, or local health programs to save. Always verify coverage and prices before your visit.
CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic offer convenient vaccine access. Compare costs, schedule appointments, and check insurance to avoid surprises. With proper planning, you can stay protected without breaking the bank. Vaccines are a key step to better health.
FAQ
How much do vaccines cost at CVS without insurance?
Out-of-pocket CVS vaccine prices range from $62.99 for a standard flu shot to $201.99 for a COVID-19 vaccine. Shingles vaccines cost around $200 per dose. Check GoodRx for discounts.
Are vaccines free at CVS with insurance?
Most routine vaccines are free with private insurance or Medicare Part B. Confirm coverage with your provider. Ensure CVS is in-network to avoid copays.
Can I get multiple vaccines at once at CVS?
Yes, the CDC says it’s safe to get multiple vaccines in one visit. CVS allows this for eligible patients. Schedule online for convenience.
Why was I charged for a COVID-19 vaccine?
The Bridge Access Program ended in August 2024, so uninsured patients now pay $198.99–$201.99. Check insurance coverage or contact CVS to resolve billing errors.
How can I save on CVS vaccine prices?
Join ExtraCare for rewards and a $5 off $20 coupon per vaccine. Use GoodRx coupons for discounts. Check local health departments for free or low-cost options.