Does TRICARE cover prescriptions?

TRICARE provides comprehensive prescription drug coverage:

Where to Fill Prescriptions

Military Pharmacies • No cost for all beneficiaries • Most formulary medications available • May have limited hours/selection

TRICARE Retail Network Pharmacies • Up to 30-day supply • Copays apply (varies by tier) • Convenient locations nationwide

Home Delivery (TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery) • Up to 90-day supply • Lower copays than retail • Free shipping • Automatic refills available

Prescription Costs (2024)

Generic Medications • Military pharmacy: $0 • Retail network: $13 (up to 30 days) • Home delivery: $0 (up to 90 days)

Brand-Name (Formulary) • Military pharmacy: $0 • Retail network: $33 (up to 30 days) • Home delivery: $29 (up to 90 days)

Non-Formulary • Military pharmacy: $0 (if available) • Retail network: $60 (up to 30 days) • Home delivery: $60 (up to 90 days)

Specialty Medications • Available through home delivery only • Higher copays may apply • Prior authorization often required

What's Covered • Medications on TRICARE Formulary • Most maintenance medications • Specialty drugs (with approval) • Some over-the-counter drugs (with prescription)

Not Covered • Cosmetic drugs • Experimental medications • Some weight-loss drugs • Fertility medications (limited coverage)

Tips to Save Money • Use military pharmacies when possible • Choose home delivery for 90-day supplies • Request generic alternatives • Check formulary before prescribing

Prior Authorization • Required for some medications • Your doctor must submit request • Typically processed within 72 hours

Pharmacy Finder • Use Express Scripts Tricare Pharmacy Search • Find network pharmacies near you • Verify hours and services

Most prescriptions are covered with affordable copays, and using home delivery provides the best value for maintenance medications.