TMOP Update ►   New Express Scripts 1 SEP 2017 Refill Policy

Receiving prescription drugs through Tricare's mail-order system will soon require an extra step for users, thanks to an upcoming change in the system's refill order policy. Currently, medications received monthly by mail, often used for treatment of chronic medical conditions, can be set for automatic refills. Express Scripts, Tricare's mail-order pharmacy contractor, contacts the user's doctor when the prescription runs out or expires. The doctor can choose to OK the refill or file a new prescription, allowing the patient to receive medication without interruption.

The latest change, however, will require patients to certify that they want the refill before Tricare contacts the doctor. The switch, which will start 1 SEP, affects all Tricare beneficiaries who receive medication by mail through Express Scripts. The move is expected to save Tricare money, since it will likely cut down on patients who automatically receive mailed medication that they no longer use. To opt-in to a refill, each user will need to grant "consent" through the Express Scripts website, via an automated phone call from the system, or through an Express Scripts patient care advocate, officials said in the release.

When the last refill of a patient's prescription ships, Express Scripts will contact them by mail, phone or email, depending on the user's contact preferences, officials said. If the patient does not respond within 10 days, the medication will be removed from the auto refill program. To be added back into the program, the user can re-enroll online or by phone at 1-877-363-1303. Patient contact preferences can be updated online or by phone. For more information, go to:  http://www.military.com/daily-news/2017/08/16/tricare-users-approve-mail-order-drug-prescription-renewals.html. 

[Source:  TREA Washington Update | August 21, 2017]

Yours in service,

 

Chuck Weber

Veterans Service Officer