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.