Q: I heard that Tricare will pay for visits to CVS’s “MinuteClinic”. Can I use MinuteClinic?
A: TriWest’s corporate contracting team implemented a contract with CVS’s MinuteClinic, effective Sept. 1, 2012. West Region beneficiaries will now have access to all West Region locations of MinuteClinic retail providers located in CVS pharmacies. All Tricare Prime Beneficiaries, MUST have a referral/authorization from your Primary Care Manager before utilizing the “MinuteClinic”. If you do utilize the “MinuteClinic” without a referral, you will incur a larger out of pocket expense.
MinuteClinic walk-in medical clinics are staffed by nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who provide treatment for common family illnesses and injuries, administer vaccinations, conduct physicals and wellness screenings.
CVS practitioners can: diagnose, treat and write prescriptions for common family illnesses such as strep throat, bladder infections, pink eye and infections of the ears, nose and throat. Provide common vaccinations for flu, pneumonia, pertussis, and hepatitis, among others acute issues such as minor wounds, abrasions, joint sprains and skin conditions such as poison ivy, ringworm.
All Tricare Prime Beneficiaries (excluding Active Duty) are required to have a referral/authorization. If you go without a referral CVS MinuteClinic will see you and you will be responsible for this expense. Please call the appointment line at 653-2273 to get a referral/authorization.
Active Duty members are not authorized to use MinuteClinics.
Standard Tricare Beneficiaries do not require a referral/authorization.
Send your questions to askthedoc@nellis.af.mil.
