Following are frequently asked questions regarding the Walgreens/TRICARE situation, courtesy of TRICARE Management Activity:
How do I transfer my prescription from Walgreens to another TRICARE network retail pharmacy?
You may move your Walgreens prescriptions to another TRICARE network retail pharmacy by simply taking your current prescription bottle to your new pharmacy. You may also ask your doctor to call or fax your prescription information to your new pharmacy.
I use Walgreens for all my retail pharmacy needs. How do I find another TRICARE network retail pharmacy near me?
You can find another TRICARE network retail pharmacy by calling Express Scripts, Inc. at 1-877-363-1303 or visit their pharmacy locator.
I was told I won't be able to use Walgreens for my prescriptions after December 31, 2011. What are my options for filling prescriptions?
You may always choose to fill prescriptions at a military pharmacy with no co-pay for up to a 90-day supply, or through the TRICARE Home Delivery option. Home delivery copays are $0 for generic prescriptions and $12 for brand-name prescriptions for a 90-day supply. If you prefer to use a retail pharmacy there are 56,000 network retail pharmacies available to you. To locate one nearby, please call Express Scripts, Inc. at 1-877-363-1303 or visit their pharmacy locator. If you decide to use Walgreens or any other non-network pharmacy, your out-of-pocket cost will be higher and you will have to file your own claim.
I really like Walgreens; if I continue to use Walgreens, will TRICARE cover a portion of the cost?
You can continue to use Walgreens, but be aware—using any non-network pharmacy means greater costs to you. At non-network pharmacies, you will pay full price for your medications and must file a claim for reimbursement. Reimbursements are subject to out-of-network deductibles and cost-shares. All deductibles must be met before any reimbursement can be made. Find more details on pharmacy costs.
I'm covered under TRICARE For Life. If I purchase Medicare Part D, will I be able to continue to use Walgreens for my prescriptions needs?
You would need to contact Medicare to determine if Medicare Part D in your area is managed by Express Scripts, Inc. After December 31, 2011, Walgreens will no longer be a part of the TRICARE pharmacy network, along with employer-sponsored or Medicare Part D plans managed by Express Scripts. To find out more regarding Medicare Part D plans, please visit Medicare or call 1-800-633-4227.
I live in a remote area and currently use Walgreens to fill my prescriptions. What if there isn't another option available near my home?
The TRICARE pharmacy network includes 56,000 other network pharmacies and there is usually another network pharmacy within two miles of your home. You can always choose to fill your prescriptions at military pharmacies (no cost); through TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery at zero copay for generic prescriptions; and at other network retail pharmacies. To find a pharmacy near you, contact Express Scripts, Inc. at 1-877-363-1303 or visit their pharmacy locator.
What if I need my prescription filled immediately and Walgreens is the nearest pharmacy?
The TRICARE pharmacy network includes 56,000 other network pharmacies. There is usually another network pharmacy within one-half mile of a Walgreens. To find a pharmacy near you, contact Express Scripts, Inc. at 1-877-363-1303 or visit their pharmacy locator.