McConnell meds info Published April 1, 2009 By Maj. Melissa Pammer 22nd Medical Support Squadron MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- Did you know that the 22nd Medical Group Pharmacy fills more than 600 prescriptions a day? Many of the prescriptions filled are written by off-base health care providers. So how can beneficiaries of McConnell's pharmacy know what medications are available. They can obtain a copy of the formulary at the 22nd MDG Pharmacy. The list of medications offered by the base Pharmacy free to Tricare members. Currently, there are more than 300 different medications available. 22nd MDG team members such as doctors, dentists, nurses, or pharmacists update the formulary quarterly. These updates allow for additions or deletions. If you visit an off-base provider, take a copy of the formulary to your next visit. So why doesn't the pharmacy carry all prescribed medications? The Department of Defense has a Pharmacy & Therapeutics Committee, which designates medications into three categories for Medical Treatment Facilities: basic core formulary, non-formulary and uniform formulary. The uniform formulary is where MTF pharmacies will differ. MTF pharmacies pick and choose medications from the uniform formulary to meet the needs of their beneficiaries. Additional Tricare medication information can be found at http://www.tricare.mil, select "Tricare Benefit Information" then "Prescriptions" and then "Medications". The website includes the non-formulary medications and a search tool to find if a medication is covered. In general, Tricare does not cover tobacco cessation products, weight-loss products or over-the-counter medications. Additional information can be obtained by visiting the pharmacy staff or calling (316) 759-5277.