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.

Newport 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. 

• 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 or MHS GENESIS profile built. Pharmacy will advise if your record needs to be updated and cannot fill your prescriptions without these systems being in place correctly.
• The pharmacy does not charge for prescriptions.

Learn more about eligibility for TRICARE pharmacy benefits.

Filling New Prescriptions

We fill prescriptions from both military and civilian providers for all eligible beneficiaries.

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.
• You can activate the prescription(s) and come back later to pick them up.
• 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, see below.
• The provider may fax the prescription to us at 401-841-4485 if they cannot e-prescribe.
• You can bring a written prescription to our pharmacy, but this is discouraged for patient safety reasons.
• 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 Newport PHARMACY
• NCPDP/NPI number: 4106072/1588077713
• All drugs can be e-prescribed, including controlled substances.
• For more information, visit 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.

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 health care providers that you visit as well.
• If your child under age 12 is receiving a prescription, please let us know the patient’s weight. Many medications are dosed based on 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 smart phone camera, the patient is taken directly to a website with resources related to their 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 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, 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.
• Visit the MedsOnCue Information Sheet for more information

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 pharmacy, annually to sign a DD Form 2569 and provide information about any insurance plans other than TRICARE, VA, or Medicare. Active-duty service members may need to do this as well if they were treated and are receiving benefits from different insurance, such as after a car accident.
• Federal law requires that any other insurance must be billed prior to 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, but will require your other insurance card.
• It is required by order of the commanding officer and is directed by DoDI 6015.23, DHA-PM 6015.01, and NHCNE-PI 6015.01.

Activating New Prescriptions

Access our new secure Q-Anywhere web portal. You can let us know that your prescriber has sent new or renewed prescriptions for us to fill and receive a notification when they are ready for pick up. This is for new prescriptions sent by your prescriber. Existing refills are requested using the audiocare phone-in system or the online MHS GENESIS Patient Portal, described below in the refills section, and cannot be done via Q-Anywhere.

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.

Please let us know when you need your new or renewed prescription activated so it can be filled. Prescriptions are not automatically activated when your prescriber sends them into the electronic holding file. They are activated when the patient requests them or notifies the pharmacy. There are multiple ways to activate your prescription.

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

• Scan the QR code below with your phone or click the link at the top of this pharmacy page to activate your prescription(s) using Q-Anywhere. It’s kind of like using our kiosk from wherever you are. Visit the Q-Anywhere Information Sheet for more information.

• Follow the prompts on your mobile device, computer, tablet, etc.

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.

Option 3: Call the Pharmacy

• Call 401-841-2224 to activate your prescription.
• Processing times may vary based on pharmacy staffing and resources.
• Consider using Option 1 unless you do not have a smart phone, computer, or tablet.

Requesting Prescription Refills

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.
• You’ll be given a date and time when your refill(s) will be ready to pick up.
• Visit the Online Refill Portal Information Sheet for more information about online refills.

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 877-211-1126. Then follow the prompts to select where you want to pick up your refills.
• You’ll be given a date and time when your refill(s) will be ready to pick up, generally 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, but it will be unlikely to be finished the same day.

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.
• Prescriptions may be refilled when 75% of the medication is used according to the directions, down to the minute. 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.
• Refills must be picked up 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

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 age 10, you must have their ID card or a copy of the front and back of the card. The copy may be a legible 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.
• Refills must be picked up within 10 business days.

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 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, some pressurized medications such as inhalers, and liquids over 4 ounces.
• Please do not place illegal or Schedule I drugs, such as heroin or marijuana, in the takeback box. It’s intended for legal medications only.
• Also, if a medication appears on the FDA Flush List, it may be disposed of by flushing it in your home.
• Medications cannot be recovered once put in the bin.

Additional Pharmacy Services

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 a civilian pharmacy. State laws and external facility policy may apply.
• Because all military pharmacies use the same worldwide electronic health care record, prescriptions do not need to be transferred between military pharmacies. Simply request your refill using the new military pharmacy’s refill system, select their pharmacy in web refills, or search the web for their webpage to find their refill phone line.

Emergency Contraception

• The pharmacy offers emergency contraception on a walk-up basis without a prescription.
• Plan B, eq., is available for all eligible beneficiaries.
• Plan B may be requested by one beneficiary on behalf of another female beneficiary. However, the ID card of the beneficiary who will be taking the Plan B must be presented for patient identification and eligibility verification.
• The clinic offers walk-in contraception and other related services for active-duty and eligible beneficiaries on a space-available basis. Contact the clinic for information.

Naloxone

• All opioid analgesic prescriptions by 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 a seat belt. You hope to never need it, but it can save lives if you do.

Additional Pharmacy Information

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, which include presidential holiday declarations, for example the 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.

Formulary and Quantity Limits

• The pharmacy follows the TRICARE Uniform Formulary, though there may be cases where a medication cannot be provided by the pharmacy due to availability.
• The TRICARE Home Delivery Pharmacy and TRICARE Retail Network pharmacies also follow the Uniform Formulary. Retail Network pharmacies may have different quantity limits than the MTF or Home Delivery Pharmacy.
• The pharmacy dispenses authorized generic versions of brand medications when available.
• The pharmacy generally cannot provide medications in the nonformulary tier 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 Formulary Search Tool: www.esrx.com/tform.

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/Express Scripts, ideally through an electronic ePA system or 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 GLP-1s, are required every year.
• Often, prior authorization criteria require the use of other medications first line. In these cases, the most effective option is for the health care provider to prescribe one of the first-line options instead.
• If prior authorization is not submitted or approved, the prescription is not covered by TRICARE at any other pharmacy and cannot be filled by a military pharmacy. The medication can be filled at retail pharmacies, but the cost will be high.

Other TRICARE Pharmacy 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 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.
• 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.
• Visit https://militaryrx.express-scripts.com/home-delivery for more information about TRICARE Home Delivery.

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 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 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 after the first fill can save you money and time.

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 lists:

• Which drugs are covered.
• Drug information and frequently asked questions.
• Cost details ($0 at a military pharmacy and out-of-pocket costs elsewhere). Please evaluate if the copay is worth travelling to the MTF when selecting the pharmacy you wish to fill your medication.
• 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 the 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 front and back photocopy, digital pictures) 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.

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 3 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. In the pharmacy world it’s a new prescription because it has a different original date, prescription number, etc.

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, the pharmacy 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 Home Delivery. TRICARE copayments apply.
• Be sure to ask for the expected resupply date so you know whether to wait or seek another option.
• Some medications are not used by many beneficiaries and may not be routinely stocked. If this case applies, it may be beneficial for you to coordinate with the pharmacy in advance of needing a refill to avoid a lapse in therapy.

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. The pharmacy will take austere environments and access to postal services into account to meet your needs within theatre guidance and legal limits. The pharmacy will likely need to know where you are deploying as we have location specific policies that impact what we can do.

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

Let your prescriber know the medication requires prior authorization (PA). Most prescribers will use an online e-prior authorization (ePA) portal, such as SureScripts or Cover My Meds to submit PA to insurers, though calling the TRICARE PA office is also an option if the prescriber does not use these services. Typically, the PA will be approved or denied in near real time and the prescriber will be notified. If the PA is approved, let the pharmacy 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 number for TRICARE PA by using the TRICARE Formulary Search Tool (link below).

My prescriber called in my prescription. Why isn’t it automatically ready when I come to the pharmacy?

The short answer is that the patient must notify the pharmacy that they have a new prescription that they need filled, otherwise we won’t be aware that the prescriptions needs to be filled or has been sent. The pharmacy typically has around 6,000 prescriptions in an electronic holding queue and fax file that are never activated or filled by patients. Purchasing, adjudicating, filling, checking, and then returning to stock so many prescriptions would consume resources that aren’t available. However, the pharmacy can have your prescriptions ready for you when you arrive if you use our QAnywhere option described above.

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

Useful Links

TRICARE Pharmacy Homepage

This website has comprehensive information about your TRICARE Pharmacy benefit along with useful links.
www.tricare.mil/pharmacy

TRICARE Express Scripts Home Delivery

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.
www.militaryrx.express-scripts.com

TRICARE Formulary Search Tool

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 a requirement for active-duty patients and others with a $0 copay—can be viewed and downloaded.
www.esrx.com/tform

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.