What is Tricare Insurance?

Tricare is a health insurance program that serves military personnel, their families, and retirees. It provides coverage for medical and dental services, prescription drugs, and other health-related expenses. Tricare is managed by the Defense Health Agency (DHA), which is part of the Department of Defense.

History of Tricare

The Tricare program was created in 1993 as a replacement for the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services (CHAMPUS). CHAMPUS had been in place since 1966 and was designed to provide health care coverage for military personnel and their families.

Tricare was introduced as part of a broader effort to reform the military health care system. The goal was to create a more efficient and cost-effective system that would better meet the needs of those it served.

Over the years, Tricare has undergone a number of changes and updates. These include changes to the types of coverage available, the eligibility criteria, and the way in which the program is managed and administered.

Types of Tricare Coverage

There are several different types of Tricare coverage available, depending on the status of the individual or family member. These include:

Who is Eligible for Tricare?

Tricare eligibility is based on a number of factors, including the status of the military member and their family members. In general, those who may be eligible for Tricare include:

• Active-duty service members
• Retired service members
• Family members of active-duty and retired service members
• Survivors of deceased service members
• Medal of Honor recipients and their families

Active-Duty Service Members

Active-duty service members are automatically enrolled in Tricare Prime. They may also be eligible for Tricare Select if they meet certain criteria. Active-duty service members are responsible for paying a small enrollment fee and may be required to pay co-payments for some services.

Retired Service Members

Retired service members may be eligible for Tricare Prime, Tricare Select, or Tricare for Life, depending on their eligibility for Medicare. Retired service members are responsible for paying a small enrollment fee and may be required to pay co-payments for some services.

Family Members of Active-Duty and Retired Service Members

Family members of active-duty and retired service members may be eligible for Tricare Prime, Tricare Select, or Tricare for Life, depending on their eligibility for Medicare. Family members may be required to pay a small enrollment fee and may be required to pay co-payments for some services.

Survivors of Deceased Service Members

Survivors of deceased service members may be eligible for Tricare Survivor Benefit Plan, which provides health care coverage for survivors and their families. Survivors may be required to pay a small enrollment fee and may be required to pay co-payments for some services.

FAQ

What is the cost of Tricare?

The cost of Tricare varies depending on the type of coverage and the status of the individual or family member. Active-duty service members and their families are typically not charged for Tricare coverage. Retired service members and their families may be required to pay enrollment fees and co-payments for some services. The cost of Tricare for Life is typically based on the cost of Medicare Part B.

What services are covered by Tricare?

Tricare covers a wide range of medical and dental services, including doctor visits, surgeries, hospital stays, prescription drugs, and preventive care. The specific services covered may vary depending on the type of Tricare coverage and the status of the individual or family member.

Can I see any doctor with Tricare?

With Tricare Prime, you must choose a primary care manager who will coordinate your health care services. With Tricare Select, you can see any Tricare-authorized provider without a referral. With Tricare for Life, you can see any health care provider who accepts Medicare.

How do I enroll in Tricare?

The enrollment process for Tricare varies depending on the type of coverage and the status of the individual or family member. Active-duty service members and their families are typically automatically enrolled in Tricare Prime. Retired service members and their families must enroll in Tricare using the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS). Survivors of deceased service members must also enroll in Tricare using DEERS.

What happens if I am not eligible for Tricare?

If you are not eligible for Tricare, you may be able to purchase health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace or through a private insurance provider. You may also be eligible for Medicaid or other government-sponsored health care programs.

Can I use Tricare if I am living overseas?

Yes, Tricare provides coverage for military personnel and their families who are living overseas. Tricare offers different types of coverage depending on the location and status of the individual or family member.