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Delivering Medication Before, During, and After Deployment

Being ready for deployment is part of military life. Preparation for a potential deployment often begins before deployment orders are even received. As you prepare, make sure you know how to get your prescriptions before, during, and after deployment through the Deployment Prescription Program (DPP).

The DPP is a fast and secure way for Active Duty Service Members[1] to get medication through TRICARE Home Delivery while deployed. If you need to use the DPP, start by:

  1. Talking to your healthcare provider. Ask your healthcare provider for two copies of your prescriptions for up to a 180-day supply[2].
    1. The first prescription will be filled at your pre-deployment military pharmacy, so you have your medication available when you deploy. Your healthcare provider must also complete a pre-deployment prescription form to enroll you in home delivery.
    2. Ask your healthcare provider to send the second prescription to home delivery[3] so your refills can be mailed wherever you are deployed[4].
    3. Sharing this resource with your healthcare provider may help them understand the best ways to support you while using the DPP. You can contact the DPP Team by email or at 855-215-4488.
  2. Creating or logging in to your Express Scripts online account. Remember to use the email address you plan to access while deployed.
    1. After you have successfully logged in, make sure to update your mailing address to your deployment Army Post Office (APO), Fleet Post Office (FPO), or Diplomatic Post Office (DPO) address. Your medication will be delivered to the address on file.[5] We will send you a reminder email 60 days into your deployment to update your mailing address (APO/FPO/DPO).
  3. Downloading the free Express Scripts® Pharmacy mobile app. This way, you can easily access your account and manage your medication anytime. You can also order refills and track when your order is received, processed, and shipped.

When it is time, you will receive another email reminding you to order your medication refill. Each refill request must be made through your Express Script online account or the Express Scripts® Pharmacy mobile app. The average shipping time to an APO/FPO/DPO address while deployed is 3 to 4 weeks.

Learn more about how the DPP works.

[1] You can also fill your prescription(s) through the DPP if you are a TRICARE-eligible deployed contractor, or a TRICARE-eligible civil service employee.

[2] Control medications may not be available up to a 180-day supply. If you are a deployed contractor or civilian service employee eligible for TRICARE, your medications may be limited to a 90-day supply, and a copayment will apply. Learn more about drug limitations and restrictions here.

[3] Refrigerated medications cannot be shipped through the Deployment Prescription Program.

[5] DPP prescriptions are not included in the auto refill program. Request refills online or through the Express Scripts® Pharmacy Mobile App.

Published 6/5/2024.

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