Natural disasters are so frequent that it can be difficult to predict where the next hurricane, tornado, or flood will strike. That’s why you should always be prepared. One of the most important precautions you can take in the event of a natural disaster is ensuring that you and your family have access to prescription drugs and medical services. It’s important to understand how the TRICARE benefits work in an emergency.
“TRICARE has a policy to ensure that beneficiaries have access to necessary prescriptions and medical care in an emergency,” said Sapna Surana, head of TRICARE Private Sector Care Integration Office. “In the event of a natural disaster, these policies may apply to your area.”
In response to the government’s declaration of a state of emergency, Tricare may temporarily change procedures to ensure that everyone receives medical care in a timely manner. Here’s what you should know:
How to get emergency prescription refills
TRICARE may allow early refilling of prescriptions in an emergency or prior to a natural disaster. TRICARE Pharmacy Program Handbook. To get emergency refills, take your prescription bottle to: Tricare Retail Network Pharmacy. Go to the pharmacy where you originally wrote your prescription. If you used a retail chain, you can fill your prescription at another store in that chain. You can also ask your healthcare provider to call you for a new prescription. retail network pharmacy. Out-of-pocket expenses Applies to emergency prescription refills.
If your prescription bottle is not available, or if the label is damaged or missing, please contact your TRICARE Pharmacy Contractor. express scriptor retail network pharmacies.
How to get an emergency referral waiver
What if I am displaced during a disaster and cannot see my care manager? TRICARE may grant comprehensive referral waivers in certain areas during emergencies. If the exemption applies, it means you can refer to a TRICARE certified provider without paying the POS cost.if you need submit a claim, Be sure to keep your receipt and submit your claim as soon as possible. This helps you avoid unnecessary out-of-pocket costs.
If you are evacuated and need to find a doctor, use TRICARE. find a doctor A tool for finding things nearby.
How to maintain your TRICARE coverage
If a natural disaster strikes your area, there are a few things to remember to ensure your medical needs are met after the disaster.
- Check if you have a Unified Service ID card.If you lose your ID, please come to the nearest window. ID card office to get a new one.
- Follow proper inquiry and approval procedures.
- don’t forget Migrate your TRICARE registration If you move after evacuating.
- If applicable, continue to pay your plan enrollment fee or monthly premium on time.
- File Claim Fast.
how to prepare for emergencies
It is also important to prepare for disasters before they occur.do you have emergency planTake the time to outline how you and your family will communicate, how you will evacuate and where you will evacuate.? It’s also important to keep your essentials in a safe and easy-to-find place.
If a natural disaster hits your area, check the TRICARE Disaster Alert to see if TRICARE has issued emergency policies such as early prescription refills and referral waivers.your follow up Tricare Contractor Any questions?
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