Welcome to the United States and the military community! As a new military spouse, one of the most important aspects of your family’s well-being is healthcare. In the U.S., the military offers comprehensive healthcare coverage through a program called TRICARE. Navigating TRICARE can seem overwhelming at first, especially if you’re new to the country, but this guide is here to help you understand the basics and point you to resources that can support you along the way.

The first obvious question is: What is TRICARE?

TRICARE is the healthcare program for active-duty service members, retirees, and their families, including spouses and children. It provides access to a network of healthcare providers and facilities both within the U.S. and abroad, ensuring that military families receive the medical care they need.

Types of TRICARE Plans

TRICARE offers several different plans, each tailored to specific needs and situations:

1. TRICARE Prime: This is a managed care option that is similar to an HMO (Health Maintenance Organization). It’s available to active-duty service members and their families, with no out-of-pocket costs for most care. You’ll have to choose a primary care manager (PCM) who coordinates your healthcare.
2. TRICARE Select: A fee-for-service option that offers more flexibility in choosing healthcare providers. You can see any TRICARE-authorized provider without a referral, but you may pay more out-of-pocket compared to TRICARE Prime.
3. TRICARE for Life: This plan is designed for military retirees who are also eligible for Medicare. It acts as a supplement to Medicare, covering out-of-pocket costs.
4. TRICARE Reserve Select: This is a premium-based plan available to members of the Selected Reserve and their families who are not on active duty.
5. TRICARE Young Adult: Available for adult children of TRICARE-eligible families up to age 26 who are not eligible for their own employer-sponsored health plan.

You may be wondering, How do I enroll?

*Did you know you can enroll in TRICARE before coming to the USA (Include resources and helplines)

Enrolling in TRICARE depends on your specific situation. Generally, active-duty families are automatically enrolled in TRICARE Prime, but you can choose to switch to TRICARE Select if you prefer more flexibility.

 Step 1: Ensure your spouse has registered you in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS). DEERS is a database that lists everyone eligible for TRICARE and other military benefits. You can update DEERS information by visiting a local ID card office or using the MilConnect website.

  MilConnect Website: https://milconnect.dmdc.osd.mil/milconnect/

Step 2: Choose a TRICARE plan that suits your family’s needs. You can compare plans using the TRICARE Plan Finder.

 TRICARE Plan Finder: https://www.tricare.mil/Plans/PlanFinder

Step 3: If applicable, enroll in your chosen plan via the Beneficiary Web Enrollment website, or by calling your regional contractor.

 Beneficiary Web Enrollment: https://www.tricare.mil/BWE

Important TRICARE Resources

TRICARE Website: This is the official TRICARE site, offering detailed information about plans, eligibility, coverage, and more https://www.tricare.mil/

TRICARE Overseas Program: If you are stationed overseas, this program ensures you still have access to the care you need.

https://www.tricare.mil/Plans/Eligibility/Overseas

TRICARE Mobile App: The TRICARE app offers convenient access to your benefits and coverage information on your smartphone.

 https://www.tricare.mil/app

Health Care Finders: These professionals help you locate healthcare providers within the TRICARE network. You can reach them through your regional contractor.

https://www.tricare.mil/ContactUs/CallUs/AllContacts

Bonus tips

Stay Informed: TRICARE and military benefits can change, so it’s important to stay updated. Regularly check the TRICARE website and sign up for newsletters or updates.

Military OneSource https://www.militaryonesource.mil/ is an excellent resource for information on all aspects of military life, including healthcare, education, and family support.

Navigating TRICARE may feel daunting at first, but with time and the right resources, you’ll find that it gets easier. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek out help from healthcare finders, military support groups, or fellow spouses. Remember, you are part of a community that is here to support you every step of the way.

If you need further assistance or have specific questions, consider reaching out to a TRICARE representative or visiting your base’s family support center.