TRICAREs

TRICARE is the health care program of the United States Department of Defense’s Military Health System. It provides civilian health benefits to active duty service members and their families, retirees and their families, National Guard and Reserve members and their families, and certain survivors worldwide. Administered by the Defense Health Agency, TRICARE coordinates care through military treatment facilities and a network of civilian providers, and it covers medical, dental, and pharmacy services. Beneficiary costs and access depend on the chosen plan and status.

The program encompasses several options to fit different needs and locations. TRICARE Prime is a managed care option that generally requires enrollment and uses a primary care manager with referrals for specialty care. TRICARE Prime Remote serves eligible beneficiaries in remote or isolated areas. TRICARE Select provides more freedom of choice and does not require referral for most services, but typically involves out-of-pocket costs. For qualified National Guard and Reserve members, there are plans such as TRICARE Reserve Select and TRICARE Retired Reserve. TRICARE Young Adult offers coverage for dependent children up to age 26 who no longer qualify as dependents, and TRICARE for Life provides Medicare wraparound coverage for beneficiaries aged 65 and older who have Medicare Part A and Part B.

Additional TRICARE components include dental programs and the TRICARE Pharmacy Program, which handles prescription drug benefits. Eligibility depends on status (active duty, retiree, family member, or other qualified category) and may require enrollment or incur costs such as deductibles and copayments. TRICARE aims to provide comprehensive access to care worldwide, balancing military facilities with a broad civilian provider network.