Prescriptions can be an essential part of managing your health, so it’s important to know what your plan covers, how to get refills, and where your prescriptions can be filled. MetroPlusHealth’s Find A Pharmacy tool can help you find a covered pharmacy. Also, be sure to check your plan’s drug list to see what medications are covered.

How long can a pharmacy hold a prescription?

The amount of time a pharmacy will hold a prescription will vary depending on pharmacy policies, the type of medication, and state laws.

Generally, many pharmacies will hold a prescription for up to 14 days. However, controlled substances like opioids and stimulants may have a shorter holding period than other medications.

If you are unable to pick up your prescription in a timely manner, just call and let your pharmacy know your situation.

What is a formulary?

A formulary is a list of generic and name-brand prescription medications and therapies covered by your health insurance plan or a prescription drug plan. You’ll sometimes hear this referred to as a drug list.

If you’re prescribed medication that’s not in your plan’s formulary, you’ll likely have to pay for it out of pocket.

How can I get a refill on my prescription?

If you need a refill of your prescription, there are different options depending on whether you have any refills left.

First, check the label on your prescription bottle. The label should specify how many, if any, refills remain. If you still have refills available, you can usually request the pharmacy fill them in one of three ways.

  1. Call: Call the phone number on your prescription bottle and either use the automated system or speak to a pharmacist to request a refill.
  2. Online: Use your pharmacy’s app or website to request a refill.
  3. In person: Go to the pharmacy and request a refill in person.

Regardless of how you choose to put in for your refill, make sure you have your name, prescription number and insurance card handy.

If your prescription has no refills left, you’ll need a provider to write or approve a new one. You can either call your doctor’s office or log in to your patient portal to request a new prescription refill.

If you no longer have a provider you see regularly, you may be able to use telehealth or urgent care services to get a new prescription.

Note that controlled substances like opioids and stimulants typically require in-person doctor’s visits for refills.

How to get an online prescription?

There are now many online options if you need to get a prescription.

  1. You can use telehealth and schedule an online appointment. You’ll meet with a provider virtually so they can assess you and write a prescription if needed.
  2. Major pharmacies, like Walgreens and CVS, also offer online healthcare services that allow you to consult with a clinician.
  3. Your provider can typically send your prescription electronically to the pharmacy of your choice.

Click here for a list of participating online pharmacies.

Where to get a prescription?

Depending on what you need, there are multiple options for both in person and online consultations and refills.

In person options:

  1. Primary care: Your primary care physician, the doctor you see for regular check-ups, can typically assess your condition and write a prescription if they think it’s necessary. If they think you need a specialist, they can refer you to one.
  2. Urgent care: For immediate needs, such as strep throat or a sinus infection, you can visit an urgent care. These clinics can prescribe you medication or refer you to a specialist or the emergency room for further treatment.
  3. Pharmacies: Many pharmacies, such as Walgreen and CVS, have on-site clinics where you can see a provider for things like infections or minor illnesses.

Online options:

  1. Virtual appointments: You can use telehealth to connect you with a provider for consultations and prescriptions.
  2. Pharmacies online: Major pharmacies typically offer virtual care services where providers can prescribe medications for common illnesses.

Can I fill my prescription at any pharmacy?

While you can typically transfer your prescription to any pharmacy you’d like, it’s essential to verify that the pharmacy is in MetroPlusHealth’s network to ensure the drug costs will be covered.

last updated: December 23, 2025
MetroPlusHealth
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