Summer Time is Disaster Prep Time Published June 7, 2016 By TRICARE FALLS CHURCH, Va. -- Summer rays and cool breezes can quickly turn into unexpected lightning and blinding rains. TRICARE makes it easy to get the care you need in the event of a natural disaster. In emergencies, the Department of Defense (DoD) can approve a waiver of primary care manager (PCM) referrals. Waiving the PCM referral requirement allows affected beneficiaries to get care from TRICARE-authorized providers without a PCM referral, avoiding point-of-service charges. The “Emergency Refill Too Soon” waiver authorizes early prescription refills for affected beneficiaries. When a prescription waiver is authorized for an impacted area, information about early refills is posted on the TRICARE website. Beneficiaries who’ve signed up for TRICARE updates via email or SMS text-messaging receive the update directly. Also check TRICARE’s social media pages for updates. Severe weather can happen at any time, during any season. Disaster preparation is important and being prepared is just as essential as knowing how to get help. Everyone should have an emergency “Go To” kit, and copies of important documents like your Uniformed Services ID card or other health insurance card, driver’s license, Social Security card and list of prescriptions and shot records. Have the numbers to family doctors and the regional contractor close at hand for help getting care. Make a disaster plan and practice it. TRICARE has a downloadable contact wallet card with all the contacts you need for help with your health plan. Visit the TRICARE website for details on how to stay safe and get the care you need in a disaster.