I went to Walgreens to get a COVID-19 vaccine but was told that my insurance was expired over a year ago even though I had a current insurance card. I called insurance and was assured that I was currently covered and that a COVID-19 vaccine would be covered. The representative spoke directly with the pharmacist and still, the system showed expired insurance. After 1.5 hours on the phone wandering around the nice store was finally connected with Optum Rx who informed me that a COVID-19 vaccine at a pharmacy is not covered because it is covered under medical and was advised to make a doctor appointment to get the vaccine. Not trusting them and not wanting to waste more time, I paid cash and left. Their domination over pharmaceuticals so grossly patriarchal.
Recommendation: Avoid insurance that forces your meds into the OptumRx.