Can you only use TRICARE on a base???

Question

Is the only providers of TRICARE on a base or can you use your insurance somewhere else??? If so, is there maybe a directory???

well I would love to go to a base for a spouse orientation but I live about 100 miles from the closest base! I am very aware that I need a valid military ID to get on base in which I do have. Not to mention you kid of HAVE to have an ID to use your insurance... says it on the insurance card...Oh and if I wasn't a military spouse, why would I bother trying to get answers about this situation......

Answer 1

You can use Tricare with any doctor who is willing to accept it. The Tricare website usually has a list of doctors who will take Tricare within the patient's local area.

Answer 2

when your sponsor PCSs to a new command or if you marry, you will be required to pick a Primary Care Physician. If the Military Treatment Facility on base is not accepting new patients, or if you live more than 50 miles away from one, you may choose your PCM from a list that is provided to you of civilian practitioners. One thing you do have to be very sure about though, is that the PCM shold be a PARTICIPATING PROVIDER, not someone who just accepts Tricare. a with a PP and Tricare Prime, you will have zero out of pocket costs, and with Standard, you only have to pay the co pay.

oh, and Sglmom.. your are not entirely correct. the VA is also the main source of medical care for all retirees, not just those who have been medcally retired or have service connected issues. ANY Veteran may utilize the VA on a space Available basis.

Answer 3

Hi, if you can even be seen at a base nowadays, that's a miracle. Most of the staff for facilities are skelaton and scarse. You should have picked a provider, depending on sponsors rank, and be able to utilize them out in town/off base. This is referred to as the primary physician.

Here is a site to help you. www.tricare.osd.mil
Also numbers are Tricare information 1-800-444-5445
For authorization for non emergency care or for out of area, call 1-800-444-5445.

Good luck!

sgl, How DARE you ridicule my comment, or anyone elses...or rate that as misinformation, as this was taken directly from my TriCare card and is FACTUAL. I too noticed the VA comment but from that person's response I assume they deal with the VA only situation. Also the website provided for the WEST region might not be beneficial, as TRICARE has North, South, East, West regions, but the asker should be able to determine that.. As far as the asker not being an actual military sponsor, and needing to go to orientation,it's nonsupportive enlisted wives, who conduct themselves like you, who might make a new enlisted sponsor intimidated and reluctant about an unfamiliar military lifestyle. If the military member hasn't added them to DEERS, then they can't use any of this information, but since they've already asked for TRICARE information, I assume they are on DEERS. I'm not sure what rank you're member is, but I suggest you regard your comments in an ethical manner according to Yahoo's TOS, as well as maintain some dignity and offer assistance to this obviously military sponsor.. it's your duty!

Answer 4

You can use your Tricare at any military facility, as active duty you are only allowed to use Military Medical (except in the case of an emergency). For your family you can get a list of Tricare providers though, you should be able to get one from your squadron's Medical office or your Flight Surgeon.

Answer 5

We have TRICARE but use only civilian doctors off base, as we live too far from base. Go to www.triwest.com to search the provider list.

Answer 6

Call Tricare and have them send you a directory of providers.

Answer 7

OK -- I am really concerned about all the nonsense answers here -- and the fact that you are turning to this environment to gain your answer.

IF you really are a military spouse -- there is an orientation session for new military spouses -- and you should go to it. That is where you will be able to get the information you need about Military Benefits for a spouse -- and this will include things like how to use TRICARE.

Answer 8

any va hospital will accept tricare since it is for retired military.