How much do prescriptions cost with TRICARE?
Quick Answer
Prescription costs vary by location: military pharmacies are free, network pharmacies charge $13-$60 copays, and home delivery offers lower costs for 90-day supplies.
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Detailed Answer
TRICARE prescription costs depend on where you fill them:
Military Pharmacies
- All prescriptions: $0
- Most formulary medications available
- May have limited hours
- Free for all beneficiaries
TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery:
90-Day Supply
- Generic: $0
- Brand name (formulary): $13
- Non-formulary: $60
Benefits
- Free shipping
- Lower costs than retail
- Auto-refill available
- Convenient
Network Retail Pharmacies:
30-Day Supply
- Generic: $13
- Brand name (formulary): $38
- Non-formulary: $60
Convenient but more expensive than home delivery
Non-Network Pharmacies
- Pay full price
- File claims yourself
- Reimbursed at lower rate
- Not recommended
Cost Comparison:
Generic Medication Example
- Military pharmacy: $0
- Home delivery (90 days): $0
- Retail (30 days): $13
Brand Name Example
- Military pharmacy: $0
- Home delivery (90 days): $13
- Retail (30 days): $38
Ways to Save:
1. Use Military Pharmacies: Always free 2. Home Delivery: Best for maintenance meds 3. Choose Generic: When available 4. 90-Day Supplies: Lower cost per day
Specialty Medications
- Higher costs may apply
- Prior authorization required
- Home delivery or specialty pharmacy
- Network pharmacy option
TRICARE For Life
- Similar copay structure
- Medicare may cover some
- TRICARE covers gaps
Formulary
- List of covered medications
- Generic preferred
- Some brand names require authorization
- Search online at tricare.mil
Prior Authorization
- Some medications require approval
- Ensures medical necessity
- Provider submits request
Medication Not Covered?
- Ask about alternatives
- Generic options
- Appeal process available
Tips
- Ask about 90-day supplies
- Use home delivery for maintenance meds
- Check formulary before prescribing
- Keep medication list updated
Annual Costs
- Pharmacy copays count toward catastrophic cap (Select)
- Prime pharmacy copays don't count
- Once cap reached, remaining prescriptions free
Use military pharmacies or home delivery whenever possible for maximum savings.
Related TRICARE Terms
Related Questions
How much does TRICARE cost?
Costs vary by plan and beneficiary status. Active duty members have no costs. Retirees and their families pay enrollment fees and cost-shares.
Does TRICARE cover prescriptions?
Yes, TRICARE covers most prescriptions through military pharmacies, network pharmacies, and home delivery.
What do most military families add to their TRICARE coverage?
Supplemental health insurance is the most common addition — it covers dental, vision, and out-of-pocket costs that TRICARE leaves uncovered. Life insurance and a legal will are also highly recommended.
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