Pharmacy Optimization
Posted 30 MARCH 2022
To reduce wait-times in our pharmacies, we’re adjusting operations to better spread pharmacy services across all four locations.
Starting June 6, we will end same-day refills at all pharmacy locations. Additionally, all NEW prescriptions will only be processed at the Arrowhead Pharmacy or the America Pharmacy. Due to this change, all REFILL prescriptions will only be available for pick-up at the Drive-Thru Pick-Up or the Navy Exchange.
Refills can be requested using the following methods:
Note: please allow 48 hours after making a refill request before pickup. Thank you for your understanding as we work to improve patient care at WRNMMC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Why are you changing pharmacy operations?
A1: To reduce wait-times in our pharmacies, we are adjusting operations to better spread pharmacy services across all four locations. This change is meant to minimize the wait times for patients across our pharmacy system. We encourage you to also take full advantage of the multiple methods for requesting refills in advance (e.g., phone, web link, or TRICARE Online).
Q2: When does this change take place?
A2: Starting June 6, we will end same-day refills at all pharmacy locations. Additionally, all NEW prescriptions will ONLY be processed at the Arrowhead Pharmacy or the America Pharmacy. Due to this change, all REFILL prescriptions will ONLY be available for pick-up at the Drive-Thru Pick-Up or the Navy Exchange.
Q3: Will pharmacy hours change?
A3: Yes, the Arrowhead Pharmacy will add Saturday hours to process NEW prescriptions only. See our pharmacy page for a full list of hours of operation.
Q4: How do I place a request for refills?
A4: Refills can be requested using the following methods:
Q5: I understand streamlining processes, but this may increase traffic. How will this affect parking?
A5: Moving refill requests to our Drive-Thru Pick-Up (DTP) and NEX Pharmacy should actually help decrease traffic in our parking garages. We request 2 business days to process prescription refills as safely and effectively as possible, and encourage you to take full advantage of the multiple methods for requesting refills in advance (online, by phone, in person).
Q6: What’s the difference between NEW and REFILL?
A6: A “NEW” prescription is either a medication that hasn’t been previously prescribed to you, or a prescription that has been previously prescribed to you that doesn’t have any available refills. A “REFILL” prescription is a medication that can be filled without having to see a provider. A prescription with refills will show the total number of available refills on the prescription label. Each time you refill that prescription, the number shown on the label will go down.
Q7: When can I request my refill?
A7: You are able to request a REFILL when you have used about 75% of the prescription based on the number of days that have passed since the date of your last prescription fill. A prescription with refills will show the total number of available refills on the prescription label. Each time you refill that prescription, the number shown on the label will go down. You can find out whether or not you have refills by using TRICARE Online. You will also be able to identify if and when your medications are eligible for refill.
Q8: How will this change improve wait times?
A8: Re-balancing services across all four pharmacies should help us reduce wait times, which are caused in large part by the heavy traffic we are currently experiencing at the America and Arrowhead pharmacies.
Q9: What do I do if I have both a NEW and REFILL prescription?
A9: If you have a NEW prescription at either the America or Arrowhead pharmacy AND you have a REFILL prescription to pick up at either the NEX Pharmacy or our Drive-Thru Pick-Up (DTP) location, we may be able to accommodate both requests at either the America or Arrowhead pharmacy. However, please note that you may experience an additional wait time of up to 60 minutes depending on the number of refills you have and the time of your visit.
Q10: Will Drive-Thru Pickup (DTP) have the capability to “mix” prescriptions?
A10: In order to “mix” medications, a separate countertop is needed to prevent content spillage, which can damage equipment or other prescriptions. Due to the lack of dedicated counter space, we are unable to offer this service at our DTP location. Furthermore, our DTP location is not staffed with a pharmacist who would need to review the final product. We apologize for the inconvenience.
For more information about our pharmacy services, please visit our pharmacy web page.