Prescription Services:  

One needs look no further than the online prescription ordering features of Rite Aid to see that their emphasis isn’t on their internet presence. There are not provisions for placing orders for new prescriptions online nor can they be transferred from another pharmacy.

On a positive note, the MyPharmacy feature does provide for online monitoring of prescription records and also allows for placing refill orders. You can also sign up for refill reminders and the Automated Courtesy Refill program. Refills can be ordered using information from the MyPharmacy profile or by entering information from an existing prescription bottle. Refills ordered online through Rite Aid are actually filled by drugstore.com.

Over-the-Counter Products:  

Rite Aid carries the full complement of non-prescription remedies that would be expected in a typical drug store. Their Medicine Cabinet feature organizes products by categories such as ear and eye care, allergy & sinus, pain & fever relief and first aid. There is also a good selection of home medical supplies and equipment. Other specialty areas include natural remedies, supplements and appliances such as humidifiers and air purifiers.

In addition to over-the-counter medications, Rite Aid sells a full line of vitamins, minerals and other nutritional supplements. You can shop in categories for women, men or children or by supplements for particular health conditions. You’ll also find a full range of personal care, hygiene and beauty products.

Health Education:  

Information about the full range of prescription drugs is available on Rite Aid’s website. Details include uses of specific medications, how to take them, possible side effects, precautions and drug interactions. There’s also information about a limited number of immunizations and also a special support section for care givers. Rite Aid’s website offers specialized information about diabetes, vitamins, allergies, skin care, weight management, heart health, pain management and oral care though the bulk of this information is in the form of links to other web sites.

Ease of Use:  

From the prescription pharmacy perspective, there isn’t much to Rite Aid's web site. Refills can be ordered and that process is very simple. The MyPharmacy feature provides a valuable tool for keeping track of prescriptions and is also easy to use and understand. Information on the site is well organized and presented but is not very extensive compared to some top rated pharmacy sites.

Help & Support:  

Customer support is available through a toll-free telephone line as well as email. The website also has an informative FAQ section. In most cases, the best source for customer service from Rite Aid is likely to be a local store’s pharmacy.

Rite Aid has a well established presence of quality neighborhood pharmacies but its foray into the online world is tentative and incomplete. If the company decides to be a major player online, there is a strong basis to be an outstanding option. Check out our objective reviews of drugstore.com, CVS/pharmacy and Walgreens to see how they compare.