Most of us think of Costco as the place to grab a giant bag of coffee and a flat of soup cans. But if you are retired and watching every dollar, your membership card opens a few doors you might not know about.
A standard membership runs $65 a year. The executive tier is $130. Here is what those dollars can actually do for your health budget.
Big Savings on Prescriptions
Costco members have access to the Costco Member Prescription Program, known as CMPP. It is a discount program that can save members up to 80 percent or more on select name-brand and generic prescriptions, depending on the medication.
There is no extra enrollment and no added fees. You just ask your doctor to send the prescription to your local Costco pharmacy. The savings come from discounts Costco negotiates directly on drug prices.
It is worth knowing that CMPP is not insurance. It works alongside your existing coverage as a supplemental savings program.
Getting Your Medications Without Leaving Home
Once your prescription is filled, you do not have to make a special trip to pick it up. Costco offers same-day delivery through Instacart in many areas. You can also pay ahead and pick up in-store, use Rx locker pickup at select locations, or have medications mailed right to your door.
For anyone dealing with mobility challenges or without easy access to a car, these options can make managing prescriptions a lot simpler and less costly.
Over-the-Counter Savings Add Up Too
The savings go well beyond prescription drugs. Costco carries national brands and its own Kirkland Signature line for painkillers, allergy and sinus relief, cold and flu remedies, sleep aids, and digestive health products.
Vitamins and supplements are another strong category. Vitamin D, calcium, multivitamins, and joint-support formulas are all available in bulk at prices that make it easier to stay consistent with a daily wellness routine without breaking the bank.
Affordable Vision Care in One Stop
Costco Optical handles eye exams, prescription glasses, and contact lenses, all under one roof. Members can choose from lens options including Kirkland Signature HD Progressive Lenses and anti-reflective lenses.
The optical center provides free adjustments on all lenses and includes anti-reflective coating, which can help with eye strain and make night driving easier.
When you add it all together prescription discounts, convenient delivery, over-the-counter savings, and vision care- that $65 annual membership starts looking like a decent investment for retirement.