Shingles vaccine for people on Medicare

People with Medicare Part D coverage (the prescription drug plan) might be interested to know that, under at least one company's Part D plan, the shingles vaccine (Zostavax) is available at some local Kroger and Rite Aid pharmacies for the co-pay price provided in their plan (generally about $50 to $60), and it will be given at the drug store without further expense. To receive it requires bringing in a doctor's prescription for it. An appointment may be needed, to make sure the vaccine (which needs to be kept refrigerated) is on hand.

Some medical offices offer that vaccine for $217 or so, and they then leave their patient to struggle about getting some reimbursement from their prescription drug plan. Getting the vaccine at the drugstore is obviously simpler and cheaper. Nobody else will tell you about this -- but I will.