FALLS CHURCH, Va. –
Are you looking for a simpler way to pick up your TRICARE prescriptions? ScriptCenter automated pharmacy kiosks and locker systems provide a safe, secure, and controlled way to pick up your prescriptions at certain
military hospitals and clinics.
What are ScriptCenters?
ScriptCenters are contactless, automated locker or vending machine units. They use state-of-the art technology to provide convenient and secure access to most prescriptions. Enrollment is easy and convenient. Once registered, you can pick up prescriptions at your convenience. Each kiosk or locker system can hold hundreds of prescriptions, with the exception of refrigerated medications.
“Many ScriptCenter units are already in operation,” said Col. Markus Gmehlin, the Acting Chief of the Pharmacy Operations Division at the Defense Health Agency (DHA). “DHA is deploying 80 units to 69 stateside military hospitals and clinics by the end of 2021. We expect them to make a real difference in pharmacies across the Military Health System.”
ScriptCenters are mainly for prescription refill pickup. But, some sites have adapted ScriptCenters for new prescriptions, same day surgery, or staff-only prescription pickup, as well as any combination of these services.
What are the benefits?
One benefit of ScriptCenters is that they allow you to pick up your prescription after pharmacy or clinics close. Although times vary by location, some are available to you 24/7.
“After-hour prescription pickup is especially helpful if you can’t get to the pharmacy during normal operating hours,” said Gmehlin. “This convenience means you have less congested pharmacy lobbies, increased access for same-day prescription needs, and significantly shorter wait times.”
Another benefit of the ScriptCenters is that they can be located away from the pharmacy. This includes in locations where you may frequent, such as the Base Exchanges. Location placements vary by military site.
How do you use a ScriptCenter?
First, you need to complete a one-time enrollment at a ScriptCenter kiosk. To do this, scan your military ID card (Common Access Card or Uniformed Services ID Card), enter your date of birth, and create a password and four-digit pin. To pick up your medications the first time, you must have a current prescription number. Once you create an account, you can use your fingerprint, ID card, or password with your four-digit pin to unlock and get your medications. This process usually takes less than two minutes.
You can request refills by calling AudioCARE and choosing your site’s “ScriptCenter” option and then “Enroll.” Put in a current prescription number to complete your enrollment. If your military hospital or clinic also uses
TRICARE Online for refill pickup, then you can refill your prescription by choosing “ScriptCenter” as your pickup location. In both cases, AudioCARE will give you a pickup time and date. The pharmacy will then fill your prescriptions and load them into the kiosk.
In addition to using
military pharmacies, you have other options for filling your prescriptions. As outlined in the
TRICARE Pharmacy Program Overview, you have several options to fill your prescription drugs:
Keep in mind, some prescription drugs may only be available through one pharmacy option. You can
search the TRICARE Formulary to see where you can fill your prescription, how much you’ll pay out of pocket, and more.
If you want to use a ScriptCenter for your prescriptions, check with your military pharmacy to see if this is an option for you. Take command of your health, and learn about all your
pharmacy options.