FALLS CHURCH, Va. –
Do you want to learn more about your TRICARE pharmacy benefit? If you’re enrolled in a
TRICARE health plan, you’re eligible for pharmacy coverage through the
TRICARE Pharmacy Program, unless you have the
US Family Health Plan, which has a separate pharmacy coverage. That means you and your family can get the medications you need for your health. But how can you get your prescriptions filled? And how much will they cost? The
TRICARE Pharmacy Program Overview can answer these questions and more.
“Understanding how your pharmacy benefits work is essential to getting the quality care you need,” said Robert Agnello, deputy chief of the Digital Communications, TRICARE Web and Publications at the Defense Health Agency. “Whether you’re new to TRICARE or a longtime beneficiary, you can find plenty of helpful information in this pharmacy fact sheet.”
Here’s a look at what this pharmacy resource can help you understand.
1. The different types of prescription drugs
Did you know TRICARE groups prescription drugs into
four categories? This grouping is based on the medical cost and effectiveness of a drug compared to other drugs of the same type. The four types of drugs you’ll find with TRICARE are:
Now, which types of prescription drugs are the most
cost effective and readily available? Check out the “Four Categories of Drugs” section in the pharmacy fact sheet to find out. Keep in mind, active duty service members pay nothing for covered prescriptions.
2. How to search for your medications
When your doctor writes you a prescription, wouldn’t you like to know if it’s covered? As outlined in this pharmacy fact sheet, there’s a convenient tool to help you find out. It’s called the
TRICARE Formulary Search Tool. This online search tool lets you know where you can fill your prescription, how much you’ll pay out of pocket for it, and if your medication requires a
pre-authorization. It’s also something you can access from your computer or mobile device. When you’re ready to
use the search tool, the “TRICARE Formulary Search Tool” section will tell you what information you’ll need.
3. Where to fill your prescriptions
Found your prescription? Now, it’s time to fill it. Your TRICARE pharmacy benefit gives you several options to fill your prescription. Your options may include:
Wondering which option is best for you? That depends on the
type of drug you need and where you live. Some drugs can only be filled a certain way. And the
quantity limits and
out-of-pocket cost of your drug may also vary by pharmacy option. So, make sure you read the
TRICARE Pharmacy Program Overview to learn about the advantages of each option.
Looking for more on the
TRICARE Pharmacy Program? Be sure to contact the pharmacy contractor,
Express Scripts, or check out the
TRICARE Pharmacy Program Handbook if you have any questions. And don’t forget to take the
Publications Feedback Survey and share your thoughts on how we can improve our pharmacy publications.