by Aidan Kang, CFA
Senior Writer
Insurance
UPDATED: October 13, 2022

If you’re looking to get your prescriptions or vaccines, CVS is the place you need to be. CVS helps you manage your prescription benefits. 

Depending on your coverage plan, you will only have to pay CVS the copayment or deductible. CVS will then bill your insurance provider for the entire cost of your prescriptions.

What Types of Insurance Does CVS Accept?

CVS accepts most types of insurance plans, including Blue Shield Insurance, Aetna, Cigna, and more. However, the exact plans CVS accepts depends on individual stores. 

You can check if your insurance company covers the specific service that you wish to receive before your visit through its insurance check tool online.

All you need to do is choose your insurance carrier and your plan. Then you’ll be asked to enter your zip code and you’ll get a list of CVS stores in your area that accepts the insurance plan you have.

If you don’t see your insurance carrier or plan on the list, you can pay through other means, including cash, checks, and credit cards. The charges vary depending on various factors, such as your condition and the number of health care services you need.

You can check the CVS price list for minor illnesses, minor injuries, skin conditions, and more.

Insurance CompanyDoes CVS Accept It?
Humana InsuranceYes. Get in touch with a Humana representative first to verify your coverage and get an estimate of your possible out-of-pocket expenses.The costs will vary depending on your location, level of coverage, and healthcare services you receive.
CignaYes. You can use your Cigna Health Works plan at any CVS Pharmacy and CVS MinuteClinics.If you have this type of insurance, you’ll receive pharmacy support and enjoy discounts on health-related products by presenting your CVS ExtraCare Health card. 
Anthem Blue CrossYes. If you have Anthem Blue Cross coverage, you can use your health plan’s allowance to purchase over-the-counter medications and other healthcare products at CVS Pharmacy stores.It also covers online healthcare, such as CVS Telehealth visits. The amount you need to pay will depend on your coverage.If you’re uninsured or just want to cover the costs yourself, you can pay it via cash, credit card, or check.
United Health CareYes. CVS MinuteClinic accepts United Health Care.Contact your insurance company first to confirm your coverage before scheduling an appointment.
AetnaAetna insurance is accepted at CVS MinuteClinic. It’s best to get in touch with your insurance provider and verify your coverage first before your in-person visit.This type of insurance is also accepted for MinuteClinic Telehealth visits, including E-Clinic and Video visits. You can pay in cash, checks, or credit cards if you’re uninsured.
MedicaidAs for Medicaid, CVS accepts Fee for Service Medicaid in all of its CVS/pharmacy retail locations.A fee-for-service means Medicaid will directly pay medical professionals for every service they provide.For instance, if you visit a doctor for a checkup, your doctor will charge Medicaid for the cost of your visit. The fee is based on the state where you’re located.
MedicareCVS Minute Clinic Accepts Medicare. You can go to the CVS Insurance Check page to verify coverage with your insurer for the specific health care service that you want to get before your doctor’s visit.CVS Pharmacy accepts most plans that fall under Medicare Part D, which you can get from any Medicare-approved private insurance company. It covers prescription drugs listed under the formulary of your insurance plan.

How Do You Use Your Insurance at CVS?

Present your insurance card or prescription benefit card when you buy your medicine at CVS. After giving your insurance information, CVS will check your insurance plan.

You will only be charged with the copayment or/and deductible, depending on your prescription plan. 

CVS customer care will get in touch with you in case your medication isn’t covered by your insurance company or if your insurance company isn’t part of your network. You’ll pay any out-of-pocket expense when you pick up your prescription at CVS.

When you receive specialty treatment, CVS Specialty will contact your insurance provider to learn about your coverage and the paperwork required. 

If your insurer denies your claim, CVS Careteam will help you with the approval process of your insurance company. CVS Careteam will also work with your doctor and try to find another medication that will work for you and is covered under your insurance. 

It’s also helpful if you know what kinds of medications are covered under your plan and how much you need to pay for your prescription. 

You can also check CVS Speciality Drug List to see if CVS Speciality offers the medication you need. If not, you can consult your doctor and ask where you can fill your prescription.

How Can You Contact CVS Customer Service for Questions or Concerns?

You may contact CVS Speciality Care Team online or via phone:

  • Send them a message online by registering here.
  • Call 1-800-237-2767 (TTY: 711) from Monday – Friday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for questions regarding your refills and prescription.
  • Call 1-800-250-9631 (TTY: 711) for concerns about billing and payments. They are available from Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET
  • Call 1-855-264-3239 (TTY: 711) for login issues and technical support. They are available from Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. ET.

Can CVS Help Connect You With Financial Assistance Providers?

Financial assistance may be available for you if you use CVS Specialty. 

Many insurance companies include CVS Speciality in their networks. If you’re having trouble paying for your special medication, CVS Speciality can connect you to various financial assistance programs and assist you with its application process.

If you’re eligible, some foundations may cover a part or all of the cost of your medications. You may also receive co-pay prescription savings cards, which could help lower out-of-pocket expenses.

How Much Do Common Medicines and Vaccines Cost at CVS Without Insurance?

Listed below are the retail costs of common vaccines at CVS without insurance.

In-demand vaccinesRetail costs
Flu vaccine$69.99
High-dose flu vaccine$69.99
Shingles vaccineCosts may range from $180 to $200 per dose. Call your local CVS Pharmacy for the exact cost.
COVID-19 vaccineFree
Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis)$77
Source: GoodRx Health

Here’s a list of common drugs sold at CVS pharmacies.

DrugsCost
Anastrozole 1 mg$22.50
Clopidogrel 75 mg$16.00
Fluoxetine 40 mg$17.00
Rizatriptan 10 mg$16.00
Sildenafil 20 mg$19.00
Source: GoodRx

Conclusion

CVS accepts most types of insurance plans including Aetna, Humana, Cigna, Blue Shield, and United Health Care. Contact your insurance provider to verify your coverage. If you’re uninsured, CVS takes other forms of payments like cash or through checks and credit cards.