Some medical formulas can be purchased in stores, while others must be ordered through a pharmacy or shipped by WIC. How you get your formula depends on availability and where you live.
How to Get Medical Formula
Most medical formulas must be obtained through a WIC-approved pharmacy, not a grocery store. Follow the steps below to obtain your medical formula:
- Visit a WIC-approved pharmacy or vendor to request ordering of the medical formula. Formula cannot be ordered by phone. You (or your authorized representative) must go to the pharmacy in person to request the formula.
- Visit more than one approved location depending on where you live.
- Use the WIC Shopper app to find approved locations.
- At pharmacies, your WIC card must be swiped before ordering. Your WIC card must be swiped to confirm the type and amount of formula before the order can be placed.
- Pharmacies order one month of formula at a time. Because of packaging size, you may not always receive the exact maximum amount listed for your benefits.
- Allow up to 48 hours for ordered formula to arrive.
- Return to the store or pharmacy to complete your purchase.
This process must be repeated each month your benefits are available.
If You Cannot Get Your Formula
If you have visited more than one WIC-approved location and still cannot redeem your medical formula, you may submit a vendor complaint. WIC will review the issue and determine next steps, which may include direct shipping when appropriate.
How to Find Approved Stores:
- WIC Shopper app: Use the "WIC Stores" feature within the app to locate authorized retailers in your area.
- MSDH Website: Check our list of approved vendors, including locations for stores like Kroger, Cash Saver, and Walmart.
- WIC Clinic: Ask your local WIC clinic for a list of stores when you visit.
When Direct Shipping Applies
Direct shipping may be used only when the formula cannot be obtained through a WIC-approved pharmacy or vendor. Direct shipping is not automatic and does not replace the in-store or pharmacy ordering process.
Some medical formulas can be purchased in stores, while others must be ordered through a pharmacy or shipped by WIC. How you get your formula depends on availability and where you live.
Questions and Answers
Can I buy medical formula directly from a store shelf?
Sometimes. If the formula is available on the shelf and has not already been ordered or shipped by WIC, you may purchase it using your WIC card.
Why do I have to go to a pharmacy for medical formula?
Most medical formulas are specialty products that are handled through WIC-approved pharmacies rather than grocery stores.
Can I call the pharmacy to order the formula?
No. You or your authorized representative must go to the pharmacy in person so your WIC card can be swiped.
Does the pharmacy need to swipe my WIC card?
Yes. The pharmacy must confirm the type, flavor and amount of formula before placing the order.
How long does it take for the formula to arrive?
Once ordered, it may take up to 48 hours for the formula to arrive at the pharmacy.
Do I have to reorder every month?
Yes. Medical formula must be ordered each benefit period.
Why didn't I receive the full amount listed on my benefits?
Some formulas are sold only in multi-packs that cannot be split. Because of packaging size, the full maximum amount may not always be available.
When is formula shipped instead of picked up?
Direct shipping may be used when there is no nearby WIC-approved pharmacy or when the formula cannot be obtained in a reasonable amount of time.
Whom should I contact if I have questions?
Contact your local WIC clinic to help with medical formula ordering or delivery.
When do I file a complaint?
After visiting more than one location, following all above steps, if it is unsuccessful contact your WIC clinic to submit a complaint. Complaints should include locations visited and as much information as possible including names/descriptions when submitting for investigation
