Credit and Debit Card Processing is Crucial for Pharmacies
Pharmacies often operate in retail environments and typically serve patients from all backgrounds and cultures, making them surprisingly complicated cases from a payment processing perspective. Pharmacists need to consider methods for accepting all kinds of payments, including debit, credit, checks, cash, prepaid cards, and ACH transfers. They can also benefit from providing multiple payment channels, including in-person transactions as well as billing by mail, telephone, and internet. Most merchant account providers can supply all of these services to pharmacists, but not all of them will do so within every pharmacist's budget.
To help you find a provider that fits your business as well as your budget, we've put together the following list of the best merchant accounts for pharmacies. The companies on this list offer virtual terminals, online billing, point-of-sale systems, and other useful tools for operating your drug store. They are also known to provide low-commitment contracts with transparent pricing and quality customer service. To find the right provider for your retail pharmacy, be sure to research each processor's products and features and compare pricing and terms.
How to Select the Best Pharmacy Credit Card Processor
When selecting a credit card processor for a pharmacy business in the USA, there are several key factors that should be considered which we have included below.
Compliance
The credit card processor should be compliant with the regulations set forth by the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS). As a pharmacy business, you will be handling sensitive customer data, including credit card information, so it is essential to select a processor that ensures secure and safe transactions.
Integration with Pharmacy Management Software
It is essential to choose a credit card processor that integrates with your pharmacy management software. This will enable seamless payment processing and ensure accuracy in transaction records.
EMV Compliance
The processor should be EMV (Europay, Mastercard, and Visa) compliant. This means that the processor can process chip-enabled cards, which are more secure and less susceptible to fraud than traditional magnetic stripe cards.
Credit Card Transaction Fees
Transaction fees can vary significantly between credit card processors. It is crucial to choose a processor that offers competitive rates and doesn't charge hidden fees.
Chargeback Handling
As a pharmacy business, there is a higher likelihood of chargebacks due to the sensitive nature of the products sold. It is essential to choose a processor that has an efficient and transparent chargeback handling process.
Excellent Customer Support
Choose a credit card processor that offers 24/7 customer support. This ensures that you can get help if any issues arise with payment processing.
Fraud Detection and Prevention
Select a processor that offers fraud detection and prevention services. This will help protect your business from fraudulent transactions, chargebacks, and other related risks.
Mobile Payment Capabilities
As more customers use mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet, it's important to select a credit card processor that can process these payments.
Overall, selecting the right credit card processor is crucial for the success of a pharmacy business. By considering these factors, you can choose a processor that meets your specific needs and helps your business grow.
Top Picks for Merchant Services for Pharmacies
#1 Helcim
Top Rated for Pharmacy Credit Card Processing
Helcim is a merchant account provider headquartered in Alberta, Canada, and Seattle, Washington. The company provides merchant services and credit card processing to both U.S. and Canadian businesses. Helcim offers traditional payment processing equipment as well as a feature suite called “Helcim Commerce,” which is intended to serve as an all-in-one business management solution for merchants across all of their sales channels.
Helcim – A Reliable Credit Card Processing Solution for Pharmacy Owners
If you own a small Pharmacy business and are looking for a reliable credit card processing solution, Helcim could be an excellent option for you. Helcim is a payment processing company that has been providing top-notch services to small businesses for years. With its robust payment processing platform, Helcim can help you accept credit card payments from your Pharmacy customers with ease and convenience.
Advanced Security Features
One of the key benefits of using Helcim for Pharmacy payment processing is its advanced security features. Helcim is PCI-compliant, which means that it meets the highest security standards for processing credit card payments. As a Pharmacy owner, it's crucial to ensure that your customers' payment information is secure, and Helcim provides that peace of mind.
In-Store and Online Payments
Another significant advantage of using Helcim for Pharmacy payment processing is its flexibility. With Helcim, you can accept credit card payments both in-store and online, making it convenient for your customers to pay for their Pharmacy products. Helcim also offers a range of payment processing options, including debit cards, credit cards, and mobile payments, giving your customers more payment options to choose from.
Excellent Customer Service
Helcim provides exceptional customer service to its clients. As a Pharmacy owner, you need a payment processing company that can assist you whenever issues arise. Helcim's customer service team is available 24/7, so you can always get the support you need whenever you need it.
Helcim is an excellent credit card processing solution for Pharmacy owners. Its advanced security features, flexibility, and exceptional customer service make it a top choice for small businesses looking to accept credit card payments. By choosing Helcim, you can provide your Pharmacy customers with a convenient and secure payment experience while ensuring that your business's payment processing needs are met.
Host Merchant Services
Top Pick for Pharmacy Merchant Accounts
Host Merchant Services is a Newark, Delaware-based merchant account provider that is well-suited for pharmacies of all sizes and specialties. The company's products and services include point-of-sale solutions, online marketing tools, an online payment gateway and virtual terminal, mobile credit card processing, gift and loyalty programs, and merchant cash advance. Host Merchant Services specializes in e-commerce businesses and provides a free website and email address to interested merchants. Host is a good fit for pharmacies that would like to affordably accept online and in-person payments.
Host Merchant Services has received only positive feedback on public forums, with most reviewers singling out the company's customer service for praise. Host offers interchange-plus pricing with no early termination fees to all of its merchants, meaning that users will enjoy the most transparent pricing model and can cancel service without penalty. The Better Business Bureau gives Host an “A+” rating, and CPO also gives the company an “A+.”
Why Host Merchant Services is a Top Choice for Pharmacy Payment Processing
For small businesses selling pharmacy products, accepting credit card payments is essential. Host Merchant Services offers comprehensive payment processing solutions that cater specifically to the needs of pharmacy businesses. Here are a few reasons why Host Merchant Services is an excellent option for business owners who sell pharmacy products:
Compliance with Regulations
Pharmacy businesses must comply with a variety of regulations, including PCI-DSS, HIPAA, and FDA regulations. Host Merchant Services provides a secure and compliant payment processing solution that meets all of these requirements. With Host Merchant Services, businesses can rest assured that their customers' sensitive information is protected.
Customizable Payment Solutions
Every pharmacy business has unique payment processing needs. Host Merchant Services offers customizable solutions that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of each business. Whether you need a point-of-sale system, mobile payment processing, or online payment options, Host Merchant Services has you covered.
Fast and Reliable Payment Processing
Pharmacy businesses need a payment processing system that is fast and reliable. Host Merchant Services offers lightning-fast payment processing, so businesses can complete transactions quickly and efficiently. With 24/7 customer support and no hidden fees, Host Merchant Services is a top choice for pharmacy businesses that need dependable payment processing.
Host Merchant Services is an excellent option for small businesses that sell pharmacy products and need to accept credit card payments. With a focus on compliance, customization, and reliability, Host Merchant Services provides a comprehensive payment processing solution that meets the unique needs of pharmacy businesses.
For more information, visit the Host Merchant Services website or call (888) 727-4538.
PaymentCloud
Top Rated Credit Card Processor for Pharmacies
Based in Woodland Hills, California, PaymentCloud is a merchant account provider that specializes in serving standard to high-risk business types. The company's products and services include point-of-sale solutions, mobile phone swipers, an online payment gateway and virtual terminal, EMV-compatible terminals, and merchant cash advances. These features allow low to high-volume pharmacies to accurately track their extensive inventory of prescription drugs and keep accurate records of customer data to quickly facilitate payments. For those reasons, PaymentCloud is a good option for pharmacies.
PaymentCloud provides a dedicated account rep to all new merchants for the life of the account. The company has not received any negative complaints on consumer forums, and it customizes its pricing according to each merchant's business type and processing history. The BBB does not maintain a profile for PaymentCloud at this time, but CPO gives the company an “A.”
PaymentCloud: Top Credit Card Processing Service for Pharmacy Businesses
Payment processing can be a challenging task for small business owners who sell Pharmacy products, especially when it comes to credit card payments. But with PaymentCloud, Pharmacy businesses can now easily accept credit card payments from customers. PaymentCloud is a leading credit card processing service that specializes in providing merchant accounts for high-risk businesses, including Pharmacy businesses. Here are a few reasons why PaymentCloud is a great option for Pharmacy businesses.
Specialized Pharmacy Payment Processing
PaymentCloud understands the unique challenges of Pharmacy payment processing and provides tailored solutions to meet the needs of Pharmacy businesses. They offer secure payment processing that complies with all regulatory requirements for the sale of Pharmacy products. With PaymentCloud, Pharmacy businesses can enjoy seamless payment processing without worrying about regulatory compliance.
Flexible Payment Options
PaymentCloud provides a range of payment options that allow customers to make payments through various channels, including credit cards, debit cards, and ACH. They also support contactless payments, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, which have become increasingly popular in recent times. With PaymentCloud, Pharmacy businesses can offer their customers a range of payment options, which helps to increase sales and customer satisfaction.
Advanced Fraud Detection
PaymentCloud employs advanced fraud detection measures to prevent fraudulent activities and chargebacks. They use cutting-edge technology to detect and prevent fraudulent transactions, which helps to protect Pharmacy businesses from financial losses. PaymentCloud's fraud detection system is designed to minimize chargebacks, which is crucial for businesses that operate in the high-risk Pharmacy industry.
PaymentCloud is an excellent credit card processing service for Pharmacy businesses. They offer specialized Pharmacy payment processing, flexible payment options, and advanced fraud detection measures that are specifically designed for the high-risk Pharmacy industry. By choosing PaymentCloud, Pharmacy businesses can enjoy seamless payment processing and increase their sales and customer satisfaction.
For more information, visit the PaymentCloud website or call (888) 506-7859.
CDG Commerce
Top Pick for Pharmacy Merchant Services
Located in Chesapeake, Virginia, CDG Commerce is another great option for pharmacies of all sizes. CDG has been privately owned since 1998 and offers a proprietary payment gateway (as well as a discount on Authorize.Net's payment gateway), a virtual terminal, QuickBooks integration, mobile phone processing, sales reporting, security breach protection, and vulnerability scanning. CDG Commerce is ideal for pharmacies that require a simple, low-cost, fully integrated method for accepting payments online and in person.
CDG Commerce only charges a low, fixed fee per transaction and offers competitive contractual terms, including no annual fees, monthly minimums, or termination fees. CDG also offers next day funding to most business types. CDG has earned an “A+” rating in our review as well as an “A+” rating with the BBB.
CDG Commerce: Credit Card Processing Made Easy for Pharmacies
CDG Commerce is an excellent option for small business owners who sell pharmacy products and need to accept credit card payments. With years of experience in the industry, CDG Commerce understands the unique challenges faced by pharmacy businesses when it comes to payment processing. They offer a range of solutions that are tailored specifically to the needs of pharmacies, ensuring that transactions are secure and seamless.
Robust Fraud Prevention
One of the main advantages of using CDG Commerce for pharmacy payment processing is their robust fraud prevention and security measures. Pharmacy businesses are often targeted by fraudsters due to the high value of their products, making it crucial to have a secure payment processing system in place. CDG Commerce provides advanced fraud protection tools that can help detect and prevent fraudulent transactions, reducing the risk of chargebacks and losses.
Competitive Rates and Transparent Pricing
Another key benefit of CDG Commerce is their competitive rates and transparent pricing. Pharmacy businesses can benefit from competitive interchange fees, as well as transparent pricing that makes it easy to understand and manage payment processing costs. CDG Commerce offers flexible pricing plans that can be customized to suit the specific needs of a pharmacy business, helping to minimize costs and maximize profits.
Excellent Customer Support
In addition to their security and pricing benefits, CDG Commerce also provides excellent customer support and technical assistance. They have a dedicated team of experts who can help pharmacy businesses with any questions or concerns related to payment processing. This level of support can be invaluable for small businesses that may not have the resources to manage payment processing on their own.
CDG Commerce is an excellent option for small business owners who sell pharmacy products and need to accept credit card payments. With their advanced fraud prevention tools, competitive pricing, and dedicated customer support, CDG Commerce can provide a reliable and secure payment processing solution for pharmacy businesses.
For more information, see the CDG Commerce website or call (888) 393-1079.
Additional Options
National Processing
Based in Lindon, Utah, National Processing is a merchant account provider e-commerce solutions, and mobile payments for pharmacy merchants. National Processing offers month-to-month contracts with no early termination fees and interchange-plus pricing, all excellent options that offer flexibility, transparency, and cost-effectiveness to any pharmacy. Furthermore, National Processing offers ACH processing to pharmacies so they can easily accommodate their customer's preferred method of payment.
National Processing has a good track record of customer service, as demonstrated by having fewer than 10 complaints across different consumer review forums. National Processing also has an “A+” rating with the BBB as well as being awarded an “A+” overall from our review of the company.
National Processing: A Reliable Choice for Pharmacies
National Processing is an excellent option for small businesses that sell Pharmacy products and need to accept credit card payments from customers. They offer a range of payment processing solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of Pharmacy businesses. National Processing understands the unique challenges and regulations that come with selling Pharmacy products, and they have developed payment processing solutions that address those challenges.
Customized Payment Processing Solutions
One of the key advantages of National Processing is their ability to offer customized payment processing solutions. This means that Pharmacy businesses can work with National Processing to create a payment processing system that meets their specific needs. For example, they can set up payment processing solutions that are compatible with Pharmacy software, such as pharmacy management systems, or that comply with HIPAA regulations. By providing tailored payment processing solutions, National Processing can help Pharmacy businesses streamline their payment processes and reduce costs.
Committed to Customer Security
Another advantage of National Processing is their commitment to security. With the increasing risk of credit card fraud and data breaches, it's essential for Pharmacy businesses to protect their customers' sensitive information. National Processing offers robust security measures, such as PCI compliance, fraud detection, and encryption, to safeguard customer data and prevent fraud. This gives Pharmacy businesses and their customers peace of mind knowing that their information is safe and secure.
National Processing is a top choice for Pharmacy businesses looking for reliable, customized payment processing solutions. Their commitment to security, tailored payment processing options, and expertise in Pharmacy payment processing make them an ideal partner for small businesses looking to grow and succeed in the competitive Pharmacy industry.
For more information, see the National Review website or call (385) 777-1235.
eMerchantBroker
eMerchantBroker.com is a Los Angeles, California-based company that offers high-risk e-commerce processing solutions including for pharmacies. The company’s products include ACH processing, an online payment gateway, merchant cash advance, and a chargeback management system to help merchants dispute and resolve chargeback claims. eMerchantBroker.com can provide processing for pharmacies working with more high-risk clients.
eMerchantBroker.com offers custom pricing for each merchant and maintains a low complaint rate relative to its size and merchant portfolio. Our review of eMerchantBroker gives the company an “A” rating overall and the BBB assigns the company a rating of “A+”.
Why eMerchantBroker is a Great Credit Card Processor for Pharmacies
eMerchantBroker is an ideal option for small business owners in the Pharmacy industry who need a reliable and secure payment processing service. As a leading payment processor, eMerchantBroker provides tailored payment solutions to Pharmacy businesses, helping them to streamline their payment processes and increase revenue. With eMerchantBroker, you can easily accept credit card payments from customers who are buying Pharmacy products, without worrying about fraudulent transactions or chargebacks.
Ability to Process High-Risk Transactions
One of the primary benefits of eMerchantBroker's payment processing service for Pharmacy businesses is the ability to process high-risk transactions. As the Pharmacy industry is considered high-risk due to the nature of the products being sold, many payment processors may refuse to work with Pharmacy businesses. However, eMerchantBroker has extensive experience in providing payment processing solutions for high-risk industries, including the Pharmacy sector. This makes it a top choice for Pharmacy businesses looking for a payment processor that can handle their unique needs.
Dedicated to Fraud Protection
In addition to its ability to process high-risk transactions, eMerchantBroker's payment processing service offers robust fraud prevention tools. Pharmacy businesses are often targeted by fraudsters due to the high value of the products being sold, and the sensitive nature of the customer data involved. With eMerchantBroker's advanced fraud prevention tools, businesses can detect and prevent fraudulent transactions before they occur, reducing the risk of chargebacks and financial losses.
eMerchantBroker is a reliable and secure payment processing option for Pharmacy businesses looking to accept credit card payments from their customers. With its extensive experience in handling high-risk transactions and advanced fraud prevention tools, eMerchantBroker is a top choice for businesses in the Pharmacy industry.
For more information, see the eMerchantBroker website or call (877) 301-3442.
Frequently Asked Questions: Pharmacies Credit Card Processing
Merchant accounts for pharmacies are financial services that enable pharmaceutical businesses, including retail pharmacies and online pharmacies, to accept credit card and electronic payments from their customers. These accounts facilitate secure and efficient payment processing for prescription medications and other pharmacy products.
Pharmacies have unique payment processing needs, including handling prescription transactions, ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations, and addressing security concerns related to sensitive medical information. Specific merchant accounts for pharmacies cater to these requirements and offer solutions tailored to the pharmaceutical industry.
To find the best merchant account for your pharmacy, consider the following steps:
a. **Research Pharmacy-Focused Processors:** Look for payment processors that specialize in serving pharmacies and healthcare businesses. These providers will understand your industry's specific needs and compliance requirements.
b. **Check for HIPAA Compliance:** If you are processing healthcare-related payments and handling sensitive patient data, verify that the provider is compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to ensure patient data protection.
c. **Compare Fees and Rates:** Assess the processing fees, transaction rates, and any other costs associated with each potential merchant account. Choose a provider with transparent and competitive pricing that aligns with your pharmacy's size and transaction volume.
d. **Consider Payment Options:** Ensure that the merchant account supports various payment options, including credit cards, debit cards, and online invoicing, to offer convenience to your customers.
e. **Check for Integration with Pharmacy Software:** If you use pharmacy management software to handle prescriptions and patient data, ensure that the merchant account can integrate seamlessly with it for streamlined operations.
While pharmacies can use regular merchant accounts offered by mainstream providers, specialized accounts that cater to the unique needs of healthcare and pharmaceutical businesses are often more suitable. Regular accounts may not offer the same level of compliance and security features required by pharmacies.
Both online pharmacies and brick-and-mortar pharmacies should consider their unique requirements when choosing a merchant account. Online pharmacies may require additional fraud prevention measures and secure payment gateways for remote transactions. Brick-and-mortar pharmacies may focus on in-person payment processing and ease of use for their customers.
The time it takes to set up a merchant account can vary depending on the provider and your pharmacy's specific circumstances. Typically, the process can take a few days to a couple of weeks. Initiating the application process early can help ensure a smooth setup.
Yes, many merchant account providers offer contactless payment options, such as tap-and-go cards and mobile wallet payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Accepting these payment methods can enhance the convenience for your customers during pharmacy visits.
Yes, specialized pharmacy merchant accounts typically support both one-time transactions for over-the-counter sales and recurring billing for prescription medications and medical supplies.
Carefully review the contract terms and fees of potential merchant account providers to identify any hidden costs. Watch out for setup fees, monthly minimums, and any other charges that might impact your overall costs.
Yes, in most cases, pharmacies can switch merchant account providers if they are not satisfied with the service or find a better fit for their pharmaceutical business. However, be mindful of any contractual obligations and potential termination fees that might apply.
Finding the best merchant account for your pharmacy can significantly impact your payment processing efficiency, customer satisfaction, and compliance with healthcare regulations. Take the time to research and compare different options to choose a provider that aligns with your specific needs and offers the best solutions for pharmacy transactions.
Chester
I want to extend my deepest gratitude for your comprehensive and informative article on “Best Merchant Accounts for Pharmacies”. As a professional in the pharmacy industry, your guide has been an essential resource in helping me understand and navigate this specific niche.
Your detailed examination of each merchant account, pinpointing their unique strengths, potential limitations, and key features, was exceptionally done. You have a talent for making complex topics more digestible, turning a dense subject into easily understandable content for readers like me.
I especially valued your focus on critical factors such as transaction fees, customer service, and security measures. Your insights into the specific needs of pharmacies, including handling recurring payments, managing online and in-person transactions, and integrating with pharmacy management systems, were incredibly useful.
It’s clear that your guide is a product of extensive research, time, and expertise in the field. Your dedication to providing accurate, relevant, and actionable information has simplified what is typically a complex decision-making process, enabling professionals like me to make informed decisions.
Thank you once again for your invaluable contribution to this field. Your hard work, dedication, and expertise are deeply appreciated.