Military families, retirees and other TRICARE beneficiaries across Greater Houston just got a little breathing room on their medications. A new Defense Health Agency emergency waiver lets them temporarily refill certain prescription drugs early to offset storm related disruptions such as blocked roads, power outages, damaged labels or pharmacy delays. The waiver is in effect through July 25. If you feel your health is at risk, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Who’s covered and how long it lasts
As reported by Click2Houston, the waiver covers about 45 Texas counties in and around the Gulf Coast, including Harris, Fort Bend, Brazoria and Galveston, and runs through July 25. Express Scripts, which manages the TRICARE pharmacy program, maintains a weather notices page with county lists and guidance for beneficiaries.
How to get an emergency refill
To receive an emergency refill, TRICARE directs beneficiaries to take their prescription bottle to any TRICARE retail network pharmacy and ask about an emergency refill, according to TRICARE disaster guidance. If the bottle is missing or the label is damaged, the pharmacy may be able to help, and you can also call Express Scripts at 1-877-363-1303 for assistance. Most TRICARE beneficiaries, with the exception of active duty service members, may use any TRICARE authorized urgent care center without a referral if their primary care provider is unavailable.
Why the waiver now
The Defense Health Agency issued a broader emergency refill notice in mid June that covered more than 100 Texas counties through June 26, signaling a pattern of temporary waivers during regional severe weather events. That mid June DHA advisory is posted on DVIDS and urges beneficiaries to check the Express Scripts weather page for the latest county lists and expiration dates.
Practical tips for TRICARE patients
Call your pharmacy before you go to confirm it is open, and if your medication was filled at a national chain, try another store in that chain, which may be able to access your records. If possible, ask your clinician to e prescribe or call in a replacement. For help finding a network pharmacy or understanding emergency rules, see TRICARE disaster guidance.
