Finding Flu Vaccines For Less

Doctors and other health officials are urging citizens to get a flu vaccine this year, but some families are struggling with the cost. Kelly Grant, Senior Consumer Reporter for SmartMoney.com, has some advice for finding discounts.

First, if you have health insurance, talk to your insurer. "Most insurers will cover a seasonal flu immunization, especially for children," says Grant. If you go to a doctor to get the shot, you may only owe your usual co-pay, which is currently averaging $20.00 nationally. "If you go to a retailer, most insurers will cover a shot there, so you'll owe absolutely nothing," says Grant.

You can also save money based on the type of vaccine you get. In general, nasal sprays are going to cost more than traditional shots. "If you're going to Target, for example, you'll pay $24.00 for the shot and $36.00 for the nasal spray," says Grant.

Some Human Resources departments can also help reduce the cost of your flu shots. Many offer flu vaccines to employees for free or very low cost. This saves the company money in the long run. "It really is in the employers best interest to pay for the cost of the shots rather than see their healthcare costs go up or just have lost productivity because so many workers are out," says Grant.

Even if you're unemployed, you still may be in luck. "This year, CVS is offering 100,000 free flu shots. You just need to go to one of the government one-stop career centers to pick up a voucher," says Grant.

College students are also eligable for a discount. People age 24 and under are considered to be a risk group, so a valid student ID will often get college students free or discounted flu shots at university-run flu clinics. Grant says other groups will often offer a discount as well.

Finally, Grant suggests joining a supermarket loyalty club. "A lot of retailers are offering flu shot clinics this year because they're hoping that you'll come in for the shot and stay to shop," says Grant. Loyalty program members often get a discount on flu vaccines, which can lead to some big savings. Check with your local grocery chain to find out if they've set up a similar program.

For more information on saving on flu vaccines, visit www.SmartMoney.com by clicking here.
By Erin Petrun