Due to recent procedural changes at the USPS, patients all over the country are reporting delays of their mail-order prescriptions. For example, veterans have reported deliveries taking weeks to arrive. The VA itself confirmed this week that USPS-delivered prescriptions have been delayed by almost 25% over the course of 2020.
On August 18, Postmaster General Louis DeJoy stated that he will suspend any reforms to avoid disruption of election-related mail. However, it’s unclear if the changes already made will be rolled back, and how delivery times will be affected.
In addition, the USPS does not currently have a way to identify, process, and deliver prescriptions differently from other mail. As reported by Buzzfeed, the USPS stated, “These items are handled based on the class in which they are sent, Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express, or First-Class Mail, and the choice is decided by the sender.”
As a result, prescriptions sent via the USPS may continue to be delayed. If you rely on the VA or mail-order pharmacies, you may need to temporarily consider other options. Check out our infographic below, then decide on your next steps. You might need to:
- Transfer your prescriptions
- Investigate prescription discount cards, generic drug discount programs, manufacturer copay cards, or even patient assistance programs to help you afford your medications
- Try ScriptDrop home delivery, which doesn't rely on parcel carriers for delivery
Don't resign yourself to going without your medication! Skipping weeks or even days could have a long-term negative impact on your health.
