TRICARE reminder regarding flu shots

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TRICARE beneficiaries and their families can get the flu vaccine at no cost at a military hospital or clinic, a network pharmacy, or from a TRICARE-authorized provider.

Officials suggest calling ahead to make sure the vaccine is available. The vaccine, when given by a pharmacist at a network pharmacy, is covered by the pharmacy benefit for free.

“You can still go to your primary care manager or TRICARE-authorized provider if the pharmacy has restrictions or the flu shot isn’t available,” said Dr. James Black, medical director of the Defense Health Agency Clinical Support Division. “If you do, the vaccine will be free, but you may have to pay your copayment or cost-share for the office visit.”

TRICARE officials state getting vaccinated helps protect beneficiaries and their communities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that millions of people get flu every year, and it affects everyone differently. During the 2017-2018 flu season, an estimated 960,000 people in the United States were hospitalized, and an estimated 79,000 died because of flu complications. (Courtesy of TRICARE)