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.