TRICARE vs. VA Healthcare: Understanding the Differences
TRICARE serves active duty, Guard/Reserve, retirees, and their families. VA Healthcare serves veterans with service-connected disabilities or who meet income thresholds. Some veterans may qualify for both. TRICARE is managed by the Defense Health Agency, while VA Healthcare is managed by the Veterans Health Administration.
Eligibility
TRICARE
Active duty, Guard/Reserve, retirees, and dependents registered in DEERS.
VA Healthcare
Veterans discharged under conditions other than dishonorable, with priority based on service-connected disabilities and income.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | TRICARE | VA Healthcare |
|---|---|---|
| Covers Family Members | Yes | No (veteran only) |
| Provider Choice | Network/non-network civilian providers | VA facilities primarily, some community care |
| Mental Health | Covered | Covered — strong PTSD/TBI programs |
| Dental | Separate dental program | Limited — only for service-connected dental conditions |
| Prescriptions | Military pharmacy, mail order, retail network | VA pharmacy — often lowest copays |
| Telehealth | Covered | Covered via VA Video Connect |
Cost Comparison
| Cost | TRICARE | VA Healthcare |
|---|---|---|
| Enrollment Fee | $0–$776.64/year depending on plan and status | $0 |
| Primary Care Visit | $0 (Prime ADFMs) to $28+ (Select) | $0–$50 depending on priority group |
| Prescription Copays | $0–$34 depending on pharmacy type | $0–$11 for 30-day supply |
| Service-Connected Care | Standard cost shares apply | $0 for service-connected conditions |
Pros & Cons
TRICARE
Pros
- Covers entire family
- Broad civilian provider access
- Multiple plan options
- Nationwide coverage
Cons
- Enrollment fees for retirees
- Cost shares apply to all care
- No special service-connected pricing
VA Healthcare
Pros
- No enrollment fees
- Lowest prescription copays
- Excellent PTSD/TBI specialty care
- $0 for service-connected care
Cons
- Veteran only — no family coverage
- Limited to VA facilities or approved community care
- Wait times can be longer
- Not all veterans eligible
Best For
TRICARE
Military families who need comprehensive coverage for the whole family, and retirees who want civilian provider access.
VA Healthcare
Veterans with service-connected disabilities who want free or low-cost care for those conditions, plus access to VA specialty programs.