TRICARE covers vaccines differently when they are given at a TRICARE network pharmacy or given at your doctor’s office.

You can get TRICARE-covered vaccines from any TRICARE-authorized provider. It’s important to note the vaccine itself is covered at no cost, but you may have to pay a copayment or cost share for the office visit or other services received. If you are using TFL and get a vaccination from your doctor, you will be liable for TRICARE’s deductible and cost share because Medicare does not cover vaccines under Parts A or B. Vaccines fall under Part D, which most military retirees do not have because they use their TRICARE pharmacy benefit instead.

TFL beneficiaries should be able to get covered vaccines for free at participating network pharmacies. You will want to verify that it is the pharmacist who is giving the vaccine. If a provider gives the shot, you may face out-of-pocket costs.