FALLS CHURCH, Va.  –   If you live or travel overseas, you can still get your TRICARE-covered prescriptions. But the process works differently overseas than it does in the U.S. It also depends on whether you’re traveling or if you live overseas permanently. Knowing your options ahead of time can save you stress, time, and money.

“You have several options for getting your prescriptions while overseas,” said U.S. Public Health Service Cmdr. Teisha Robertson, Chief of Pharmacy Benefit Integration Branch, at the Defense Health Agency. “The options have varying degrees of cost and convenience. It’s important to know which option is best for you to get the most out of your TRICARE pharmacy coverage.”

Use a military pharmacy when you can

You can get up to a 90-day supply of most covered drugs. There are no out-of-pocket costs. Some military pharmacies also carry specialty drugs, so call ahead to check if your medication is in stock before you make the trip. To find a military pharmacy near you, visit Find a Military Hospital or Clinic.

TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery

TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery is available at no cost for active duty service members. For all other beneficiaries, copayments apply. Overseas, you can use home delivery if you have an APO, FPO, or DPO address. It isn’t available in Germany, Norway, or Saudi Arabia.

It’s a great option for receiving medications you take regularly. You can get up to a 90-day supply for most prescription drugs. You can also order refills online and get free standard shipping to your overseas address. Some restrictions on shipping overseas may apply, such as medications that need refrigeration. Learn more about TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery at Pharmacy.

Using a retail pharmacy overseas

TRICARE retail network pharmacies are only available in U.S. territories: Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. There are no TRICARE retail network pharmacies in American Samoa. If you live or travel anywhere else overseas, you’ll use a non-network pharmacy.

At a non-network overseas pharmacy, you pay the full cost upfront. You then file a claim with the TRICARE Overseas claims processor, International SOS, to get reimbursed. Keep your receipts and include proof of payment when you submit your claim. You can request reimbursement based on the covered amount, minus any deductibles, cost-shares, or copayments that apply. You must meet your deductible before TRICARE reimburses you.

There are a few important rules for overseas retail pharmacies:

• Over-the-counter drugs aren’t covered overseas. This includes drugs that are over-the-counter in the U.S., even if they need a prescription in the country you’re visiting, as described in the TRICARE Pharmacy Program Handbook.
• In the Philippines, you must use certified pharmacies. Visit Philippines for a list of certified locations.
• Always get an itemized receipt. You’re required to submit proof of payment with every overseas pharmacy claim.

If you’re traveling overseas

The most important step is to fill all your prescriptions before leaving. Finding the same medication abroad can be difficult. Bring enough supply to last your entire trip, plus a few extra days in case your return is delayed.

Also bring a copy of each prescription from your doctor. Some countries require documentation to bring certain medications across the border. Check entry requirements before you travel.

If you run out of medication or have a medical emergency while abroad, contact International SOS, the overseas contractor. International SOS provides emergency medical support to TRICARE beneficiaries overseas and can help you get the care or medication you need.

How to file a claim

If you paid out of pocket at an overseas pharmacy, file your claim with the TRICARE Overseas claims processor. Always include proof of payment. File as soon as you can after filling your prescription to avoid delays.

More information

Whether you live or travel overseas, TRICARE has options to help you get the medications you need. Plan ahead, know your options, and keep track of receipts. If you have questions about your coverage, visit TRICARE or contact your TRICARE contractor.

Would you like the latest TRICARE news sent to you by email? Visit TRICARE Subscriptions to get benefit updates, news, and more.