Free flu shots for jobless, coupon for all

Retail clinics charging $25 to $30

By Teresa Mears Sep 14, 2009 5:09PM

It's not comprehensive health care reform, but CVS is offering 100,000 free flu shots to the unemployed, and Walgreens will offer free flu shots to the uninsured in some cities.

CVS started giving flu shots this week at some Minute Clinics, at a cost of $30 or your insurance co-pay. Starting Sept 15, the drugstore chain will offer flu shot clinics at many of its stores. The vouchers for free flu shots will be distributed at events at One-Stop Career Centers, which offer job training and counseling.

Walgreens is distributing vouchers for free flu shots to the uninsured during the AARP/Walgreens Wellness Tour, which offers free screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, bone density and body mass index. Uninsured patients who visit the bus between Sept.17 and Nov. 15 can get a flu slot voucher. Flu shots start at $24.99 at Walgreens Take Care Clinics.

You might be able to get a free or low-cost flu shot through your employer or your local health department. Medicare Part B pays for flu shots.

These flu shots cover only the regular flu and are being made available earlier than usual this year nationwide. Most places started providing flu shots this week. Vaccinations against the H1N1 flu won't be ready until mid-October.

Seasonal flu shots are $30 at Rite-Aid. You'll need to check with your local Wal-Mart or Little Clinic for prices.

While you're checking out the flu shot clinic schedule at the CVS Web site, take the quiz about prescription refills and get a printable coupon for $5 off any $25 in-store purchase. The coupon is good for two weeks after you print it.

Related reading:

Your 5-minute guide to health insurance

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