Pharmacy

DOD Groton Pharmacy fills new prescriptions and refills at no cost for covered medications for:

• Active duty service members and their family members
• Uniformed Services retirees and their family members
• Any patient with TRICARE Pharmacy coverage, excluding those enrolled in the US Family Health Plan

Learn more about eligibility for TRICARE pharmacy benefits.

Filling New (or Renewed) Pharmacy Prescriptions

We fill prescriptions from both military and civilian providers.

Providers from Our Facility

Your provider may submit a prescription directly to the pharmacy during or after your appointment.

• You can activate the prescription(s) and wait, or
• You can activate the prescription(s) and come back later to pick them up, or
• You can come back later to activate them and wait to pick them up.

Civilian Providers

If you have prescriptions from a TRICARE-authorized civilian provider:

• The provider should submit an electronic prescription to our pharmacy, or
• The provider may fax the prescription to us at 401-841-2904 if they cannot e-prescribe, or
• You can hand-carry a written prescription to our pharmacy.
• Note: Electronic prescriptions have the highest level of patient safety and the shortest patient wait times.

To submit an electronic prescription:

Ask your provider to select the:

• Pharmacy name: DOD Groton Pharmacy.
• NCPDP/NPI number: 0718354 / 1073603304.
• All drugs can be e-prescribed including controlled substances.
• For more information, view the E-Prescribing Information Sheet.

If you hand-carry a written prescription:

Check in at the kiosk. Follow the on-screen prompts to check in.

Activating New (or Renewed) Pharmacy Prescriptions

Please let us know when you need your new (or renewed) prescription activated so we can fill it. We do not automatically activate prescriptions when your prescriber sends them into the electronic holding file. We activate them when you request them or notify the pharmacy. You can activate your prescription in several ways.

Option 1: Fastest and Preferred – Q-Anywhere Online Activation

• Download the official DHA-approved Q-ANYWHERE App from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for free. Securely activate your electronic prescriptions and receive notifications so you save time at the pharmacy. It’s like using our kiosk from wherever you are. For more information, view the Q-Anywhere Information Sheet.
• Follow the prompts on your mobile device. You can save this pharmacy as a favorite for faster access. Allow notifications to receive an alert when there is a change in the status of your prescription or a message from the pharmacy.
• You can still access Q-Anywhere from the web without downloading the app by using the Activate New Rx portal.
• You cannot use this option with hand-carried written prescriptions.
• Note: The DOD ID number is a 10-digit number on your Uniformed Services ID card. It may be on the front or the back of the card depending on your status and the type of card.

Option 2: In Person

• Go to the pharmacy and check in at the kiosk.
• Follow the on-screen prompts to check in.
• To get text updates, you’ll need to enter your cell phone number at the kiosk.
• You must use this option if you have hand-carried written prescriptions.

Option 3: Call the Pharmacy

Call 860-694-2365 to activate your prescription.
Processing times may vary based on pharmacy staffing and resources.
Strongly consider using Option 1 unless you do not have a smartphone, computer, or tablet.

Requesting Prescription Refills from the Pharmacy

We offer three ways to refill your prescriptions:

Option 1: Online

• Log in to the MHS GENESIS Patient Portal and select the Rx Refills tab.
• Select the medication(s) you want to refill.
• Follow the prompts to select where you want to pick it up.
• We will give you a date and time when your refill(s) will be ready for pickup.
• For more information, view the Online Refill Portal Information Sheet.

Note: If you are not a registered user, you’ll need to sign up first.

Option 2: By Phone

• Call our pharmacy refill line at 877-211-1126. Then, follow the prompts to select where you want to pick up your refills.
• We will give you a date and time when your refill(s) will be ready for pickup, generally within two business days.

Option 3: In Person

• Take a ticket at the kiosk using the New Prescription button. Processing time varies based on pharmacy staffing and resources.

When requesting refills, consider the following:

• Your prescription label will indicate if you have refills remaining within the prescription’s expiration date.
• The prescription must have remaining refills, and the date must be prior to the prescription expiration date to be processed by the pharmacy.
• You can refill prescriptions from other military pharmacies at our pharmacy using our refill phone number or your site pickup location within the MHS GENESIS Patient Portal.
• You can refill prescriptions when you have used 75% of the medication according to the directions. This equates to 23 days after receiving the last 30-day supply or 68 days after receiving the last 90-day supply. TRICARE does not allow the pharmacy to process refills earlier than this, with very few exceptions.
• Some medications with TRICARE quantity limits have stricter rules.
• You must pick up refills within 10 business days.
• Requesting your refills through the internet or refill phone line shortens your pharmacy visit by at least 75%; you’ll generally be in and out within five minutes on average.

Picking Up Your Prescriptions

You’ll need a valid Uniformed Services ID card to pick up a prescription. This includes children aged 10 and older. We will return prescriptions to stock if you do not pick them up within 10 business days. If you can’t pick up your prescription within this timeframe, please contact the pharmacy. If you’re picking up a prescription for another person, please bring that person’s valid Uniformed Services ID card (or a photocopy or digital picture). Note that BUPERS Instruction 1750.10D authorizes digital pictures or photocopies of ID cards to help you receive your benefits.

Additional Pharmacy Services

Drug Take Back

Proper disposal of prescription drugs reduces the risk of unintentional poisoning, drug abuse, and environmental harm.

If you want to dispose of unneeded or unwanted drugs, please drop them off in our blue drug takeback bin in front of the pharmacy.

Several exclusions apply. These include:

• Syringes
• Needles
• Liquids over four ounces

Also, you can flush medications in your home if they appear on the FDA Flush List.

Emergency Contraception

• The pharmacy offers emergency contraception on a walk-up basis without a prescription.
• We provide Plan B (or its generic equivalent) for all eligible beneficiaries.
• You may request Plan B for another female beneficiary; however, you must present her valid Uniformed Services ID card to verify her identity and eligibility.
• The Walk-in Contraception Clinic offers contraception options including long-acting reversible contraception and other related services for active duty and eligible beneficiaries if space is available. Contact the clinic for information.

Naloxone

• We review all opioid analgesic prescriptions in our electronic health record to ensure compliance with clinical best practices.
• A pharmacy staff member may prescribe a free naloxone nasal spray kit with your opioid analgesic prescription if you have certain risk factors.
• We strongly encourage you to have naloxone available to reverse dangerous and potentially life-threatening respiratory side effects from opioids when using higher doses, using with benzodiazepines, and when using chronically.
• Naloxone can save your life, or the lives of family members and children who accidentally use your opioid prescription.
• Think of it as an antidote, like an EpiPen for allergic reactions or a glucagon kit for low blood sugar.

Nicotine Replacement Therapy

• If you’re interested in quitting tobacco use, our pharmacists can provide nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) — patches and gum — to help you quit.
• NRT can be a helpful tool if you are not ready for prescription medication.
• The clinic’s wellness department offers follow-up as well.
• By law, military pharmacies cannot offer nicotine replacement services to patients who are eligible for Medicare.

Additional Pharmacy Information

Drug Information via QR Code

• All of our pharmacy labels include a QR code in the lower right corner. When you scan the code with a smartphone camera, you go directly to a website with resources about your medication provided by the Defense Health Agency (DHA).
• Resources include drug information (both written and video/audio), medication refill reminders, relevant medication guides, helpful medical information related to the drug and the condition being treated, and the ability to email the information to a recipient such as a family member.
• Current DHA pharmacy software relies on electronic drug information available through this service and does not routinely print drug information; however, we can print drug information for you upon request. Make sure to let a staff member know if you need printed information, and be aware that this could take several minutes.
• For more information, view the MedsOnCue Information Sheet.

Patient Safety Information

• Please let a pharmacy staff member know if you have drug allergies on your first visit and any new allergies since your last visit.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, please let a staff member know so that we can identify any concerns with your medication. Always notify any healthcare providers that you visit as well.
• If your child under the age of 12 is receiving a prescription, please let us know the patient’s weight. We dose many medications based on weight, so we always double-check the dose for your child's safety.

Third-Party Medical and Prescription Insurance

• All patients (except active duty service members) must visit the clinic’s outpatient records desk (located at the end of the corridor past the pharmacy) annually to sign DD Form 2569 and provide information about any insurance plans other than TRICARE, VA, or Medicare.
• Federal law requires that we bill any other insurance before TRICARE. This won’t cost you anything and may help meet deductibles sooner.
• This requirement is quick and painless, generally taking only a minute or two.
• The commanding officer requires this annually, as directed by DODI 6015.23, DHA-PM 6015.01, and NHCNE-PI 6015.01.

Pharmacy and Clinic Closures

• Planned closures for the pharmacy include all weekends and federal holidays.
• There are occasional unplanned closures (some with little to no notice) which include presidential holiday declarations (for example, the day after the Thanksgiving holiday) or weather closures.
• While the pharmacy cannot always give advance notice, you can follow the Naval Submarine Base New London and Naval Health Clinic New England Facebook pages and check for updates.
• If SUBBASE, the Groton clinic, or both are closed, the pharmacy will also be closed.

Formulary and Quantity Limits

• The DOD Groton Pharmacy follows the TRICARE Uniform Formulary, though there may be cases where a medication cannot be provided by the pharmacy due to availability.
• TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery and TRICARE retail network pharmacies also follow the Uniform Formulary.
• The pharmacy dispenses authorized generic versions of brand medications when available.
• The pharmacy generally cannot provide non-formulary drugs and is forbidden from providing medications that are not covered by TRICARE.
• You can view this formulary, including prior authorization requirements and quantity limits (when applicable) by visiting the TRICARE Formulary Search Tool.

Prior Authorization

• Like most commercial insurance plans, TRICARE uses prior authorization as a tool to ensure that pharmacy benefits are administered as designed by the DOD Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee and that beneficiaries receive medications safely and effectively in a manner that provides the greatest value.
• Your prescriber must submit required information to TRICARE or Express Scripts (ideally through an electronic ePA system, secondarily by calling Express Scripts) and Express Scripts must approve the prior authorization request.
• Prior authorization criteria may include age, sex, diagnosis, lab values, prescriber specialty, other medications prescribed, or other clinical criteria.
• Most — but not all — prior authorizations are only required once. Others require a one-time renewal. Finally, some — such as those for weight-loss medications — are required every year.
• Often, prior authorization criteria require you to try other medications first. In these cases, the most effective option is for the healthcare provider to prescribe one of the first-line options instead.
• If prior authorization is not submitted or approved, TRICARE will not cover the prescription and military pharmacies cannot fill it.

Other TRICARE Pharmacy Options

TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery

• TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery is part of your TRICARE Pharmacy benefit and is a great option to receive your prescriptions delivered directly to your home at little to no cost.
• Active duty service members pay no copayments, and other beneficiaries save about 67% compared to retail pharmacy by using Home Delivery.
• This is a great option if you don’t live close to a military pharmacy or prefer not to travel to the pharmacy.
• You can transfer existing prescriptions to TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery, or your prescriber can electronically prescribe directly to TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery.
• Patients cannot use Home Delivery if they have private prescription insurance.
• Visit TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery for more information.

Retail Pharmacy

• While pharmacy copayments at TRICARE network retail pharmacies are typically three times higher than TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery, this can be a useful option in specific circumstances.
• If a medication is unavailable at our pharmacy and is needed urgently, network retail pharmacies are a quick and convenient alternative.
• You can transfer the prescription to TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery after the first fill to optimize your experience.
• TRICARE limits the number of fills that can be obtained from a retail pharmacy for many medications, so transferring to TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery after the first fill can save you money and time.

Pharmacy Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my prescription is covered?

Military pharmacies follow the TRICARE Formulary — a list of TRICARE-covered prescription drugs and supplies. The TRICARE Formulary Search Tool lists:

• Which drugs are covered.
• Drug information and frequently asked questions.
• Cost details (no cost at military pharmacies, and out-of-pocket costs elsewhere).
• Prior authorization requirements and links to forms.
  • If a prior authorization, medical necessity, or both are required, your provider must submit the request to TRICARE before we can fill your prescription.

Can my network provider send controlled substances prescriptions electronically?

Yes! By regulations, all prescribers should send controlled substance prescriptions electronically.

Can I refill a prescription if the last fill was not at a military pharmacy?

Yes! Call our main pharmacy line and ask us to transfer the prescription FROM your current pharmacy. It’s helpful to have the prescription bottle available to give us the pharmacy name, phone number, prescription number, and medication name and dates.

Can I pick up medications for another person?

Yes! Please bring a valid Uniformed Services ID card (or a photocopy or digital picture) for all patients getting prescriptions. Please note: Children 10 years of age or older must have their own ID card.

What is the difference between a new, refill, and renewal prescription?

A new prescription is one a provider writes for a specific quantity and subsequent refills. It may require extra verification or prior authorization. You can use Q-Anywhere to have the pharmacy fill these.

A refill is an additional supply of your medication that your doctor authorized as part of your original prescription. This pre-approval allows the pharmacy to dispense more of your medication without requiring a new prescription from your doctor. For example, take one tablet daily, quantity 90 with three refills. This means the patient can call the pharmacy every 90 days to have medication for a year without seeing their doctor for a new prescription every 90 days. You can use the MHS GENESIS Patient Portal or the pharmacy refill line to have the pharmacy fill these.

A renewal is for a medication you’ve already been prescribed, but it has expired or run out of authorized refills. In the pharmacy world, it’s a new prescription because it has a different original date and prescription number. You can use Q-Anywhere to have the pharmacy fill these.

What do I do if my medication is out of stock?

• The pharmacy will determine if it’s available to order. If so, it’s generally available the next business day after noon.
• If the medication is backordered or not carried at the warehouse, we may not be able to fill the medication for you.
  • Ask your provider if they can approve you to switch to an alternative medication.
  • You can fill your prescription at a TRICARE network pharmacy or TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery. TRICARE copayments apply.
• Be sure to ask if there is an expected resupply date so you know whether to wait or seek another option.

I’m deploying. How can I fill my prescriptions?

Before deploying, military pharmacies can provide your initial deployment prescription in a quantity to support your deployment within legal requirements. You can fill prescriptions and get refills through the Deployment Prescription Program once in theater if the location is not restricted by foreign postal law. The pharmacy will take austere environments and access to postal services into account to meet your needs within theater guidance and legal limits.

My prescription can’t be filled because it requires prior authorization; what do I need to do?

Let your prescriber know the medication requires prior authorization. Most prescribers will use an online electronic prior authorization (ePA) portal, such as Surescripts or CoverMyMeds, to submit prior authorization requests to insurers, though calling the TRICARE prior authorization office is also an option if the prescriber does not use these services. Typically, the PA system will approve or deny the request in near real time and notify your prescriber. If the PA is approved, let us know and we can re-submit your prescription. If the PA is denied, your prescriber may prescribe a similar medication that is covered. You or your prescriber can view PA criteria and phone numbers for TRICARE PA by using the TRICARE Formulary Search Tool.

My prescriber sent a new prescription. Why isn’t it automatically ready when I come to the pharmacy?

The short answer is that you must notify us when you have a new prescription at the time you need it filled, otherwise we won’t be aware that the prescription needs to be filled or has been sent. We typically have around 6,000 prescriptions in an electronic holding queue and fax file that patients never activate or fill. Purchasing, adjudicating, filling, checking, and then returning to stock so many prescriptions would consume resources that aren’t available and degrade the services that we currently provide. However, we can have your prescriptions ready for you when you arrive if you use our Q-Anywhere option described in the activation options.

If you have other questions that cannot be answered by the information on our website, please feel free to contact the pharmacy directly.

Pharmacy   

NMRTC NEWPORT

 MHS GENESIS Patient Portal

Pharmacy Eligibility and Registration

All TRICARE beneficiaries who are not enrolled in the Uniformed Services Family Health Plan are eligible to use this pharmacy. Patients may be required to visit Outpatient Records to have an MHS GENESIS Lifetime Pharmacy Encounter and/or MHS GENESIS profile built.  Pharmacy will advise if your record needs to be updated. 

Identification Requirements

DoD has mandated that you MUST present your current, valid DoD ID card when you pick up your prescriptions. If you are picking up medications for someone else (other than a dependent child under 18) you must have their ID card, or a copy (both front and back of the card). This may be a digital image or paper copy and is authorized to facilitate DoD benefits by BUPERS INSTRUCTION 1750.10D. Pharmacy staff will ask the patient’s full name and date of birth to comply with Command and Defense Health Agency patient identification requirements to ensure patient safety.

 Patient Safety Information

Please let a pharmacy staff member know if you have drug allergies at your first visit and any new allergies since your last visit.  If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, please let a staff member know so that we can identify any concerns with your medication.  Always notify any healthcare providers that you visit as well. If your child under the age of 12 years is receiving a prescription, please let us know the patient’s weight. Many medications are dosed based upon weight and we always double check the dosing of these medications for your child’s safety. 

 Third Party Medical and Prescription Insurance

If you have private insurance other than TRICARE, you must provide this information to the clinic’s central check-in desk annually.  This includes medical and prescription insurance.  While this won’t cost you anything, and may help meet deductibles sooner, federal law requires that any other insurance must be billed prior to TRICARE.

How to Receive Prescriptions from the Pharmacy

Please note that all prescriptions need to be activated ahead of time. Prescriptions take 2 business days to prepare unless they are emergency pain medications, antibiotics or you were seen in the clinic today.

•    Pharmacy Kiosk

The pharmacy uses queuing software to manage patient prescription flow. When visiting the pharmacy, please take a ticket at our ticket kiosk located to the right of the clinic entrance.  The kiosk will ask you to scan your ID card.  This allows our queuing system to tie your name, DOD ID, and phone number to your ticket for your visit. Scan the barcode on the back of your ID card. Note that although the screen indicates success with barcode scanning, there is no audible signal. Choose your status - Active Duty or All Others -and what brings you to the pharmacy today. These questions help us identify your needs better. Finally, the kiosk gives you the option to opt into texts from the pharmacy during your visit. Then, all you need to do is wait for your ticket number to be called to the window.  If there are multiple members in your party, you only need to take one ticket, not one for each patient.  Initial wait times are typically quick.

•    New or Renewal Prescriptions

Your prescriber can submit your prescriptions to the pharmacy through electronic prescribing (eRx), fax, or by giving you a paper prescription. Each option is described below. Bear in mind that prescription renewals are new prescriptions and are not refills. A renewed prescription is for the same drug, but information such as the directions, refills, prescription number, etc. may change.  The pharmacy must process renewed or new prescriptions differently from refills, using different computer systems.

•    Electronic Prescriptions (eRx)  

**Please call 401-841-2224 to activate your prescription** 
eRx is the safest and most convenient prescribing method. Your prescriber can send your eRx to DOD NEWPORT PHARMACY. The prescriptions are routed securely to a holding queue where they can be retrieved by pharmacy staff upon patient notification. Controlled medications can now be e-prescribed as well, and in most cases, this is required by state law.  eRx also gives you the option to activate your new prescription through Q-Anywhere before you come to the pharmacy so it’s ready when you arrive, saving you time.  Encourage your prescriber to e-prescribe all your medications to improve your patient safety and make your visit quicker and more efficient by taking advantage of activation ahead of time through Q-Anywhere. (See instructions below)

E-Prescribing Information Sheet

 •    Q-Anywhere

When you need to fill your eRx’s, including those prescribed by a prescriber at this clinic, you can let the pharmacy know through Q-Anywhere.  Simply text the words: get in line to 1-833-296-5776 and follow the texted instructions and notifications.  Pharmacy staff will process any eRx’s from the past 7 days and will contact you with any questions.  You will receive text notifications and directions when your prescriptions are ready for pickup. Prescriptions will typically be ready within 3 business days depending upon time of day or workload. Activating your eRx’s in advance shortens your pharmacy visit by over 75%. Activated prescriptions must be picked up within 10 days of request.  All you need is the patient’s DOD ID. Ask a pharmacy staff member for more information.

Q-Anywhere Information Sheet

 •    Internal Clinic Prescriptions

Prescriptions from a NMRTCNE prescriber are e-prescribed directly into our system and can generally be processed quickly right after your appointment.  If you need to come back another day, you can also use Q-Anywhere. If you would like to wait for your prescription, please proceed to the pharmacy kiosk.

•    Fax Prescriptions

Prescriptions may be faxed to 1-401-841-4485. Please note that faxed prescriptions are not processed when received. You will need to call us at (401) 841-2224 to activate your prescription. Encourage your prescriber to e-prescribe all your prescriptions instead of faxing to enhance your patient safety and improve the efficiency of receiving your prescription.

•    Paper Prescriptions

Paper prescriptions are accepted by the pharmacy; however, they carry a higher risk of misinterpretation, especially when handwritten.  To improve your patient safety and efficiency, ask your prescriber to e-prescribe your prescriptions.

•    Refill Prescriptions

You can see if your prescription has refills by looking at the label.  The prescription must have remaining refills and the date must be prior to the prescription expiration date in order to be processed by the pharmacy.  Prescriptions for non-controlled medications may be refilled when 75% of the medication is used according to the directions (down to the minute).  This equates to 3 weeks after receiving the last 30-day supply or 9 weeks after receiving the last 90-day supply.  Prescriptions for controlled medication may be refilled when 90% of the medication is used according to the directions.  This equates to 3 days after receiving the last 30-day supply or 9 days after receiving the last 90-day supply.  We strongly encourage you to request your refills in advance through our automated refill system by calling 1-877-211-1126 and having the prescription number and patient’s DOD number available.  The pharmacy cannot process early refills any longer so using the call-in refill system could save you an unnecessary trip to the pharmacy.  If you request a refill too early, the automated system will tell you when to call it in.  Bear in mind that some medications have a quantity limit within a 90-day time period so your authorized refill date could be later than expected.  For example, sildenafil has a quantity limit of 30 tablets within 90 days and TRICARE will not let you refill this three weeks early.  Refills are ready within 3 business days.  Refills must be picked up within 10 days.  Requesting your refills ahead of time shortens your pharmacy visit by at least 75%. Refills cannot be initiated through the MHS GENESIS Patient Portal at this time.

•    Transfer Prescriptions

Prescriptions filled at other pharmacies can generally be transferred to this pharmacy.  Because transfers rely on our pharmacy receiving prescription information from another pharmacy, often by fax, transfer prescriptions may not be available until the following business day.  Our pharmacy can also transfer your prescription to another military or civilian pharmacy.  State laws and external facility policy may apply.

Additional TRICARE Pharmacy Service Options

•    TRICARE Home Delivery

TRICARE Home Delivery is part of your TRICARE Pharmacy benefit and is a great option to receive your prescriptions delivered directly to your home at little to no cost.  Active-duty service members pay no copays, and other beneficiaries save at least 67% compared to retail pharmacy by using Home Delivery.  This is a great option if you don’t live close to a military pharmacy or prefer not to visit the pharmacy.  Home Delivery has a wider formulary and can fill up to a 90-day supply of most medications.  Visit https://militaryrx.express-scripts.com/home-delivery for more information about TRICARE Home Delivery.  Existing prescriptions can be transferred to TRICARE Home Delivery, or your prescriber can electronically prescribe directly to TRICARE Home Delivery.  Patients cannot use Home Delivery if they have private prescription insurance.

•    Retail Pharmacy

While pharmacy copays at TRICARE network retail pharmacies are typically three times higher than TRICARE Home Delivery, this can be a useful option in some circumstances.  If a medication is unavailable at our pharmacy and is needed urgently, network retail pharmacies are a quick and convenient alternative.  You can even transfer the prescription to TRICARE Home Delivery after the first fill to optimize your experience.  TRICARE limits the number of fills that can be obtained from a retail pharmacy for many medications so transferring to TRICARE Home Delivery can save you money and time.

Additional Pharmacy Services

•    Drug Take Back

The pharmacy offers DEA-compliant Drug Take Back.  If you have expired or unneeded medications, please drop them off in our blue takeback box outside the pharmacy.  The contents of the drug takeback box go directly from the clinic to a disposal facility for incineration; however, we still recommend removing the labels from your prescriptions to protect patient privacy.  Additionally, please note that syringes or medications with needles attached should not be disposed of in the takeback box.  Liquid medications should be sealed in a leak-proof bag prior to placing in the takeback box.  Getting expired or unneeded medications out of your home has a variety of benefits.  This will prevent antimicrobial resistance, prevents accidental childhood poisoning and overdose, prevents popping positive on military urinalysis and ruining your career, etc. 

 •    Emergency Contraception

The pharmacy offers emergency contraception on a walk-up basis without a prescription.  Plan B (eq.) is available for all eligible beneficiaries.

•    MedsOnCue

All pharmacy labels include a QR code in the lower right corner.  When scanned, the patient is taken directly to resources related to their medication provided by VUCA Health.  Resources include drug information (both written and video/audio), medication refill reminders, relevant medication guides, helpful medical information related to the drug and the condition being treated, and the ability to e-mail the information to a recipient such as a family member.  
MedsOnCue Information Sheet

 •    Naloxone

Pharmacists screen all opioid analgesic prescriptions through a DHA screening tool to ensure compliance with clinical best practices.  A pharmacy staff member may prescribe patients a free naloxone nasal spray kit with your opioid analgesic prescription.  We strongly encourage you to have naloxone available to reverse dangerous and potentially life-threatening respiratory side effects from opioids, especially when using higher doses, using with benzodiazepines, and when using chronically.  Naloxone can save your life, or the lives of family members and children who accidentally use your opioid prescription.  Think of it as an antidote, like an Epi-pen for allergic reactions or a glucagon kit for low blood sugar.

•    Nicotine Replacement Therapy

If you’re interested in beating tobacco use, our pharmacists can provide nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)—patches and gum—to help you quit.  NRT can be a helpful tool if you are not ready for prescription medication.  The clinic’s wellness department offers follow-up as well.  By law, nicotine replacement services cannot be offered to patients who are covered by Medicare.

ICE—Interactive Customer Evaluation

The pharmacy appreciates customer feedback and comments regarding your visit.  If you use Q-Anywhere or your phone number is attached to your ticket number from the kiosk, you will receive a text message from us with a link directly to our ICE survey.  You can also access it directly at https://ice.disa.mil/index.cfm?fa=site&site_id=1170.  Filling out an ICE survey is very quick.  Less than a minute to answer 9 questions, or even a few seconds to simply note whether you were satisfied with your pharmacy visit.  If you have suggestions or feedback, you can free text those in as well.  Our goal is 100% customer satisfaction.

Pharmacy / Clinic Closures

Planned closures for the pharmacy include all Weekends and Federal Holidays.  There are occasional unplanned closures, some with little to no notice.  They can include Presidential holiday declarations (ex. day after Thanksgiving holiday) or weather closures.  While the pharmacy cannot always give advance notice, you can follow the Naval Health Clinic New England Facebook pages and check for updates.  If Naval Station Newport is closed, the pharmacy will also be closed.

Formulary and Quantity Limits

NMRTC NE Pharmacy follows the TRICARE Uniform Formulary, though there may be infrequent cases where a Uniform Formulary medication cannot be provided by the pharmacy.  The TRICARE Home Delivery Pharmacy and TRICARE Retail Network pharmacies also follow the Uniform Formulary.  The pharmacy dispenses authorized generic versions of brand medications when available.  The pharmacy generally cannot provide medications in a Tier 3 (nonformulary) status and is forbidden from providing medications in Tier 4 (not covered).
 
You can view this formulary, including prior authorization requirements and quantity limits (when applicable) by clicking the link for the Formulary Search Tool: http://www.express-scripts.com/tform.
 
As noted, some medications require prior authorization.  To receive a medication requiring prior authorization, your prescriber must submit required information to TRICARE/Express Scripts (ideally through an electronic ePA system, secondarily by calling Express Scripts) and Express Scripts must approve the prior authorization.  Most, but not all prior authorizations are only required once.  A pharmacy cannot process a prescription for one of these drugs unless a prior authorization has been approved.

 Useful Links 

TRICARE Pharmacy Homepage:  https://www.tricare.mil/pharmacy

This website has comprehensive information about your TRICARE Pharmacy benefit along with useful links.   

TRICARE Express Scripts Home Delivery Pharmacy:  https://militaryrx.express-scripts.com/
This website has information about your TRICARE Home Delivery benefit.  You can register for service, manage your medications and refills, download the TRICARE Home Delivery app, and more.

TRICARE Formulary Search Tool:  http://www.express-scripts.com/tform
This website allows you to view TRICARE medication information including formulary status quantity limits, copays, drug information, pill images, and more.  If a medication has prior authorization requirements, you can view and download the forms.  If a medication is not on TRICARE’s formulary, medical necessity forms, which are an additional requirement for active-duty patients, can be viewed and downloaded.

Pharmacy

We fill new prescriptions and refills at no cost for covered medications for all TRICARE beneficiaries who are not enrolled in the Uniformed Services Family Health Plan.

Learn more about eligibility for TRICARE pharmacy benefits.

Filling New Prescriptions

We fill prescriptions from both military and civilian providers.

Providers from Our Facility or Another Military Hospital or Clinic

Your provider may submit prescriptions directly to the pharmacy during or after your appointment.

Civilian Providers

If you have prescriptions from a TRICARE-authorized civilian provider:

• The provider should submit an electronic prescription to our pharmacy (see below), or
• If they cannot e-prescribe, the provider may fax the prescription to 401-841-2719, or
• You can hand-carry a written prescription to our pharmacy. (Note: This is the least preferred option with electronic prescribing being the preferred method of receiving prescriptions.)

To submit an electronic prescription

Ask your provider to search using the Kittery, ME zip code (03904) and select:

• Pharmacy name: DOD PORTSMOUTH KITTERY PHARMACY
• NCPDP/NPI number: 2008820 / 1124431978

If you hand-carry a written prescription

Check in at the lobby kiosk following on-screen prompts.

Activating New (or Renewed) Prescriptions

There are multiple options for activating your prescription(s). For all options, processing times may vary based on pharmacy staffing and resources.

Option 1: Most Efficient and Preferred

Prescriptions can be activated during business hours via Q-Anywhere by texting "Get in Line" to 833-296-5776 or by scanning QR Code.

Follow the prompts on your mobile device.

Option 2: Call the Pharmacy

Call 877-211-1126, follow prompts for Portsmouth, and then select option (4) to transfer to the pharmacy during normal duty hours. If voicemail picks up, speak slowly and clearly and leave the following information:

• Your name
• Your date of birth
• The medications that need to be filled
• Your call-back phone number, including the area code

*** Pharmacy staff will return a call ONLY if we have questions ***

Option 3: In Person

Go to the pharmacy and check-in using one of the lobby kiosks and follow prompts. To receive text updates, you’ll need to enter/verify your cell phone number.

• You can activate the prescription(s) at the lobby kiosk and wait, or
• You can activate the prescription(s) at the lobby kiosk and come back later to pick up

Requesting Prescription Refills

There are two options to request prescription refills. Please allow 3 business days for processing refills.

Option 1: By Phone

• Call our pharmacy refill line at 1-877-211-1126, select the Portsmouth location and follow the prompts to enter your information and prescription numbers.
• If enrolled in text message alerts, you’ll get a text notification when your refills are ready to pick up.

Option 2: Online

• Log in to the MHS GENESIS Patient Portal and select the Rx Refills tab.
• Select the medication(s) you want to refill.
• Follow the prompts to select pharmacy location where you want to pick up your prescription(s).
• You’ll be given a date and time when your refill(s) will be ready to pick up.

Note: If you’re not a registered user, you’ll need to sign up before using Option 2.

Picking Up Your Prescriptions

You’ll need a valid Uniformed Services ID card to pick up a prescription. This includes children aged 10 and older. Prescriptions not picked up will be returned to stock after 10 days. If you can’t pick up your prescription within this timeframe, please contact the pharmacy.

Drug Take-Back Program

Proper disposal of prescription drugs reduces the risk of unintentional poisoning, drug abuse, and environmental harm.
If you want to dispose of unwanted or unneeded drugs:

• Place them in the secure green collection receptacle located in the lobby to the right of the main clinic entrance.
  • Several exclusions apply. This includes:
    • inhalers
    • needles
    • liquids greater than 4 ounces

Also, if a medication appears on the FDA Flush List, it may be disposed by flushing.

Information To Know Before using This Pharmacy

Pharmacy Eligibility and Registration

• All TRICARE beneficiaries who are not enrolled in the Uniformed Services Family Health Plan are eligible to use this pharmacy.
• You may be required to visit Outpatient Medical Records to have an MHS GENESIS Lifetime Pharmacy Encounter, an MHS GENESIS profile, or both built. Pharmacy will advise if your record needs to be updated.
• The pharmacy does not charge for prescriptions.

Learn more about eligibility for TRICARE pharmacy benefits.

Identification Requirements

• DOD has mandated that you must present your current, valid DOD ID card when you pick up your prescriptions.
• If you are picking up medications for someone else (other than a family member child under age 10) you must have their ID card, or a copy (both front and back of the card). The copy may be a digital image or paper copy and is authorized to facilitate DOD benefits by BUPERS Instruction 1750.10D.
• Pharmacy staff will ask your full name and date of birth to comply with command and Defense Health Agency patient identification requirements to ensure patient safety.

Patient Safety Information

• Please let a pharmacy staff member know if you have drug allergies during your first visit and notify staff of any new allergies since your last visit.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, please let a staff member know so that we can identify any concerns with your medication. Always notify any health care providers that you visit if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If your child under the age of 12 is receiving a prescription, please let us know your child’s weight. Many medications are dosed based upon weight and we always double check the dosing of these medications for your child’s safety.

Drug Information via QR Code

• All pharmacy labels include a QR code in the lower right corner. When scanned with a smartphone camera, you are taken directly to a website with resources related to your medication provided by DHA.
• Resources include drug information (both written and video/audio), medication refill reminders, relevant medication guides, helpful medical information related to the drug and the condition being treated, and the ability to e-mail the information to a recipient such as a family member.
• Current DHA pharmacy software relies upon electronic drug information available through this service and does not routinely print paper drug information for prescription refills. Printed drug information is available upon request, make sure to let a staff member know if you need printed information and be aware that this could take several minutes.
• Learn more on the MedsOnCue Information Sheet.

Third Party Medical and Prescription Insurance

• All patients (except active duty service members) must complete a DD Form 2569 annually and provide applicable information about health insurance (OHI) plans other than TRICARE/VA/Medicare parts A/B.
• Federal law requires that any other insurance, including Medicare Part D plans, must be billed prior to TRICARE.
• At Portsmouth/Kittery, the annual DD 2569 requirement is currently incorporated within the Kiosk check-in process. If completed/saved correctly the OHI question will be asked once per year.
• The annual DD2569 is required by order of the commanding officer and is directed by DODI 6015.23, DHA-PM 6015.01, and NHCNE-PI 6015.01.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my prescription is covered?

All military pharmacies follow the TRICARE Formulary – a list of TRICARE-covered prescription drugs and supplies. The TRICARE Formulary lists:

• Which drugs are covered.
• Drug information and frequently asked questions.
• Cost details ($0 at a military pharmacy and out-of-pocket costs elsewhere).
• Medical necessity/prior authorization requirements and link to forms.
  • If a prior authorization, medical necessity, or both is required, your provider must submit the request to TRICARE before your prescription can be filled.

Can my network provider send controlled substance prescriptions electronically?

Yes! All prescribers should send controlled substance prescriptions electronically.

Can I refill a prescription if the last fill was not at a military pharmacy?

Yes! Call our pharmacy line and ask them to transfer the prescription FROM your current pharmacy. It’s helpful to have the prescription bottle available to provide the pharmacy name, phone number, prescription number, and medication name(s).

Can I pick up medications for another person?

Yes! Please bring a valid Uniformed Services ID (or photocopy, digital pictures) for all people getting prescriptions. Please note: Children 10 years of age or older must have their own ID card.

What is the difference between a new, refill, and renewal prescription?

A new prescription is one a provider writes for a specific quantity and subsequent refills. It may require extra verification or prior authorization.

A refill is an additional supply of your medication that your doctor authorized as part of your original prescription. This pre-approval allows the pharmacy to dispense more of your medication without requiring a new prescription from your doctor. For example, take one tablet daily, quantity 90 with 4 refills. This means you can call the pharmacy every 90 days to have medication for a year without seeing your doctor for a new prescription every 90 days.

A renewal is for a medication you’ve already been prescribed but it has expired or run out of authorized refills.

What if I need a non-formulary or non-stocked medication?

If you’re prescribed a non-formulary medication, there are extra steps for your provider to complete. Non-formulary drugs are non-stocked medications at military pharmacies. For these drugs, expect a longer turnaround time for preparation and ordering, or you may have to use an alternative pharmacy option, such as a TRICARE retail network pharmacy, TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery or a designated Specialty Pharmacy.

What do I do if my medication is out of stock?

• Pharmacy staff will work with you to determine the best options to meet your specific needs.
  • Options may include:
    • Waiting for the pharmacy stock to be replenished
    • Contacting your provider for alternative medication.
    • Filling your prescription at a TRICARE network pharmacy or TRICARE Home Delivery. (TRICARE copayments apply.)

I’m deploying. How can I fill my prescriptions?

Before deploying, military pharmacies can provide your initial deployment prescription in a quantity to support your deployment within legal requirements. You can fill prescriptions and get refills through the Deployment Prescription Program once in theater if the location is not restricted by foreign postal law. Pharmacy staff can provide a brochure with details if needed.

Pharmacy

We fill new prescriptions and refills at no cost for covered medications for active duty service members, active duty family members, retirees and their eligible family members, TRICARE Prime enrollees.
Learn more about eligibility for TRICARE pharmacy benefits.

Filling New Prescriptions

We fill prescriptions from both military and civilian providers.

Providers from Our Facility

Your provider may submit a prescription directly to the pharmacy during or after your appointment.

• You can activate the prescription(s) and wait, or
• You can come back later to pick them up.

Civilian Providers

If you have prescriptions from a TRICARE-authorized civilian provider:

• The provider can submit an electronic prescription to our pharmacy. New York State law prohibits other forms for transmission of prescriptions, some exclusions apply

To submit an electronic prescription:

Ask your provider to select :

• Pharmacy name: DOD SARATOGA SPRINGS PHARMACY

Activating New Prescriptions

There are multiple ways to activate your prescription:

Option 1: Fastest and Preferred

MHS GENESIS Patient Portal

Option 2: Call the Pharmacy

• Call 518-583-5306 to activate your prescription.

Processing times may vary based on pharmacy staffing and resources

Requesting Prescription Refills

We have three ways to refill your prescriptions: PLEASE ALLOW 72 HOURS FOR ALL REFILL PROCESSING.

Option 1: Online

• Log in to the MHS GENESIS Patient Portal and select the Rx Refills tab.
• Select the medication(s) you want to refill.
• Follow the prompts to select where you want to pick it up.
• You’ll be given a date and time when your refill(s) will be ready to pick up.

Note: If you’re not a registered user, you’ll need to sign up first.

Option 2: By Phone

• Call our pharmacy refill line at 1-877-211-1126. Then, follow the prompts to select where you want to pick up your refills.
• If enrolled in text message alerts, you’ll get a text notification when your refills are ready to pick up.

Option 3: In Person

Processing time varies based on pharmacy staffing and resources.

Picking Up Your Prescriptions

You’ll need a valid uniformed services ID card to pick up a prescription. This includes children aged 10 and older. Prescriptions not picked up will be returned to stock after 10 business days. If you can’t pick up your prescription within this timeframe, please contact the pharmacy.

If you’re picking up a prescription for another person, please bring that person’s valid uniformed services ID (or photocopy, digital picture).

Drug Take Back Program

Proper disposal of prescription drugs reduces the risk of unintentional poisoning, drug abuse, and environmental harm. If you want to dispose of unwanted or unneeded drugs, drop them in the secure bin located in clinic lobby. Several exclusions apply. This includes:

• syringes
• needles
• liquids greater than 4 ounces

Also, if a medication appears on the FDA Flush List, it may be disposed by flushing.

Pharmacy FAQs

How do I know if my prescription is covered?

All military pharmacies follow the TRICARE Formulary – a list of TRICARE-covered prescription drugs and supplies. The TRICARE Formulary lists:

• Which drugs are covered.
• Drug information and frequently asked questions.
• Cost details ($0 at a military pharmacy and out-of-pocket costs elsewhere).
• Medical necessity/prior-authorization requirements and link to forms.
  • If a prior-authorization and/or medical necessity is required, your provider must submit the request to TRICARE before your prescription can be filled.

Can my network provider send controlled substances prescriptions electronically?

Yes! By regulations, all prescribers should send controlled substance prescriptions electronically.

Can I refill a prescription if the last fill was not at a military pharmacy?

Yes! Call our main pharmacy line and ask them to transfer the prescription FROM your current pharmacy. It’s helpful to have the prescription bottle available to give us the pharmacy name, phone number, prescription number, and medication name and dates.

Can I pick up medications for another person?

Yes! Please bring a valid uniformed services ID (or photocopy, digital pictures) for all patients getting prescriptions. Please note: Children 10 years of age or older must have their own ID card. You will also need their Third-Party Insurance card.

What is the difference between a new, refill, and renewal prescription?

A new prescription is one a provider writes for a specific quantity and subsequent refills. It may require extra verification or prior authorization.

A refill is an additional supply of your medication that your doctor authorized as part of your original prescription. This pre-approval allows the pharmacy to dispense more of your medication without requiring a new prescription from your doctor. For example, take one tablet daily, quantity 90 with 4 refills. This means the patient can call the pharmacy every 90 days to have medication for a year without seeing their doctor for a new prescription every 90 days.

A renewal is for a medication you’ve already been prescribed but it has expired or run out of authorized refills./p>

What if I need a non-formulary or non-stocked medication?

If you’re prescribed a non-formulary medication, there are extra steps for your provider to complete. Non-formulary drugs are non-stocked medications at MTF pharmacies. For these drugs, expect a longer turnaround time for preparation and ordering, or you may have to use an alternative pharmacy option, such as a TRICARE retail network pharmacy or the TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery.

What do I do if my medication is out of stock?

• Ask your provider if they can approve you to switch to an alternative medication.
• You can fill your prescription at a TRICARE network pharmacy or TRICARE Home Delivery, TRICARE copayments apply.
• Be sure to ask for the expected resupply date so you know whether to wait or seek another option

I’m deploying. How can I fill my prescriptions?

Before deploying, MTF pharmacies can provide your initial deployment prescription in a quantity to support your deployment within legal requirements. You can fill prescriptions and get refills through the Deployment Prescription Program once in theatre if the location is not restricted by foreign postal law.