TRICARE Select vs. Blue Cross Blue Shield: Comparison Guide
TRICARE Select is a military healthcare benefit with significantly lower costs than civilian insurance. Blue Cross Blue Shield offers the largest provider network in the country. For military families with dual coverage options (e.g., working spouse), understanding how these compare helps you make the best choice.
Eligibility
TRICARE Select
Active duty family members, retirees under 65, and their dependents registered in DEERS.
Blue Cross Blue Shield (Typical PPO)
Anyone — available through employer or individual marketplace. No military affiliation required.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | TRICARE Select | Blue Cross Blue Shield (Typical PPO) |
|---|---|---|
| Network Size | TRICARE-authorized providers (large network) | Largest commercial network — 90%+ of providers |
| Referrals Required | No | No (PPO) |
| Prescription Coverage | Military pharmacy ($0), mail order, retail | Retail and mail order only |
| Preventive Care | Covered at $0 (network) | Covered at $0 (in-network) |
| Mental Health | Covered | Covered |
| Worldwide Coverage | Yes — TRICARE Overseas Program | Limited international coverage |
Cost Comparison
| Cost | TRICARE Select | Blue Cross Blue Shield (Typical PPO) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Premium (Family) | $0 (ADFMs) / ~$28/month (retirees) | $500–$2,000+/month |
| Annual Deductible | $150–$450 depending on status | $500–$5,000+ depending on plan |
| Primary Care Visit | $0–$33 | $20–$50 copay |
| Specialist Visit | $28–$43 | $40–$75 copay |
| ER Visit | $40–$81 | $150–$500 |
| Catastrophic Cap | $1,000–$3,500 | $5,000–$16,300 (family) |
Pros & Cons
TRICARE Select
Pros
- Dramatically lower premiums
- Lower deductibles and copays
- Military pharmacy access ($0 prescriptions)
- Worldwide coverage
- Lower catastrophic cap
Cons
- Smaller provider network than BCBS
- Only available to military-affiliated beneficiaries
- Regional contractor differences
Blue Cross Blue Shield (Typical PPO)
Pros
- Largest provider network
- Available to anyone
- Consistent nationwide experience
- Strong employer-sponsored options
Cons
- Dramatically higher premiums
- Higher deductibles and cost shares
- No military pharmacy access
- Limited international coverage
Best For
TRICARE Select
Military families who want the lowest-cost comprehensive healthcare. If you're eligible, TRICARE Select almost always saves you thousands per year compared to civilian insurance.
Blue Cross Blue Shield (Typical PPO)
Civilians or military families who need a specific provider not in the TRICARE network, or who want a working spouse's employer plan as primary with TRICARE as secondary.