Where to Fill Prescriptions
Military Treatment Facility (MTF)
Fill prescriptions at your base or post pharmacy. Lowest cost option.
Advantages
- Free for all formulary drugs
- No copay regardless of drug type
- Available at all military installations
Considerations
- Limited hours at some locations
- May have longer wait times
- Not all medications stocked
Express Scripts Mail Order
Order 90-day supplies delivered to your home through Express Scripts.
Advantages
- 90-day supply available
- Free generic medications
- Convenient home delivery
- Auto-refill available
Considerations
- Takes 7-14 days for delivery
- Not ideal for urgent needs
- Brand-name drugs have copays
Network Retail Pharmacy
Fill at civilian pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, or Walmart.
Advantages
- Convenient locations everywhere
- Same-day fill
- Good for urgent prescriptions
Considerations
- Highest copays of all options
- 30-day supply limit
- Must use TRICARE network pharmacy
Non-Network Retail Pharmacy
Fill at a pharmacy outside the TRICARE network (not recommended).
Advantages
- Available when no network pharmacy nearby
Considerations
- Highest out-of-pocket cost
- Must file your own claim
- Only partial reimbursement
Prescription Copays (2026)
| Drug Type | MTF | Mail Order | Retail | Non-Network |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Generic (Formulary) | $0 | $0 | $14 | Varies |
| Brand Name (Formulary) | $0 | $29 | $38 | Varies |
| Non-Formulary | N/A | $65 | $68 | Varies |
| Specialty Medications | $0 | $65 | $68 | Varies |
Money-Saving Tip: Always try the MTF pharmacy first (completely free). If your medication isn't available there, use Express Scripts mail order for 90-day supplies at the lowest copay.
Common Questions
What is the TRICARE formulary?
The formulary is the list of medications TRICARE covers. It includes generic, brand-name, and non-formulary tiers. Generic drugs are always the cheapest option. Check if your medication is on the formulary at militaryrx.express-scripts.com.
How do I set up Express Scripts mail order?
Register at militaryrx.express-scripts.com or call 1-877-363-1303. Ask your doctor to send a 90-day prescription to Express Scripts. You can also transfer prescriptions from a retail pharmacy to mail order.
Can I use GoodRx or discount cards with TRICARE?
No. TRICARE beneficiaries should not use discount prescription cards like GoodRx. Your TRICARE benefit already provides negotiated rates. Using a discount card means the purchase won't be processed through TRICARE.
What if my medication isn't on the formulary?
You'll pay the non-formulary copay (highest tier). Your doctor can request a formulary exception if there's a medical reason you need that specific medication. Consider asking about generic alternatives to save money.
Do active duty members pay for prescriptions?
Active duty service members pay $0 for all prescriptions filled at MTF pharmacies and through Express Scripts mail order. Retail pharmacy fills have standard copays unless using an MTF.
Not sure about your coverage? Check your TRICARE coverage free