HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. — Discount store chain Kmart is incentivizing consumers to transfer their current prescriptions to its pharmacies.

The retailer on Friday said Kmart Pharmacy is offering a Kmart gift card of up to $25, valid until the end of December, for customers that make the switch. A card will be given for each prescription transferred, with a limit of four prescriptions and $100 per person, according to the company.

Customers interesting in transferring prescriptions and taking advantage of the gift card offer can pick up a transfer brochure at the checkout of a local Kmart store. Kmart pharmacists also can assist with prescription transfers.

Kmart added that consolidating prescriptions helps pharmacists and doctors identify potential problems when a new medication is prescribed, such as a possible drug interaction.

"When I meet with customers, whether they’ve been coming here a long time or are new to Kmart Pharmacy, I make sure we talk about all the medications and supplements they take and their diet to help identify any possible interactions," Jack Hellyer, senior pharmacist at Kmart Pharmacy’s Penn Plaza location in Manhattan, said in a statement. "Keeping that line of communication open is key, especially since we’re in the height of flu season and many customers aren’t aware that certain medications can interact with or affect flu vaccines."

And in line with its strategy to bolster Kmart’s identity as a health and wellness destination, the retailer noted that participating Kmart Pharmacies continue to offer seasonal flu vaccines at flu clinics until supplies last. A trained pharmacist administers shots or nasal sprays.

In addition, Kmart said its pharmacy unit recently received accreditation as a Medicare Accredited Pharmacy and can now expand its offerings to customers covered by Medicare Part B. Kmart is an accredited retailer recognized to dispense diabetes supplies, as well as prescriptions and other health care services, for Medicare patients.

Kmart operates 1,030 pharmacies in 48 states, Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands and has more than 2,000 pharmacists.