Travel with TRICARE

What you need to know. 

by Kristen Ward, TriWest Healthcare Alliance

Take TRICARE with you and avoid unnecessary out-of-pocket expenses should you need healthcare while away from home.

Before you leave:

1. Verify your information in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS).  Make sure your information is updated by calling 800.538.9552 or by visiting MDDC.OSD.mil.
2. Seek routine care by scheduling office visits, routine physicals and management of chronic health conditions with your Primary Care Manager (PCM).
3. Understand emergency room and urgent care guidelines.  Contact your local military treatment facility for the procedures in your area.  They may require that you contact your PCM for authorization of urgent care services in advance or within 24 hours of receiving emergency care to avoid being billed under TRICARE’s point-of-service option, which includes additional cost-shares and a deductible.
4. Refill prescriptions ahead of time.  Use any of the following options listed from least expensive to the most expensive:

• Military Treatment Facility (no co-pay)
• TRICARE Mail Order Pharmacy program:  Get a 90-day supply delivered to your home for the same price as a 30-day supply at a TRICARE retail pharmacy.  Call the Member Choice Center at 1.877.363.1433 to enroll by phone.
• TRICARE Retail Pharmacy:  Call 866.363.8779 for locations.

5. Pack TRICARE and military ID cards.  Place cards in a secure, easy-to-find location.
6. Carry a copy of the “Traveling with TRICARE Prime” brochure, available at TriCare.mil or at any local TRICARE Service Center.  West-Region beneficiaries may also download the brochure from the TriWest Healthcare Alliance at TriWest.com.

Learn more about how TRICARE travels with you at TRICARE.mil