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Can TRICARE pay for emergency travel home?
Verified by TRICARE.com Editorial Team
Updated 2024-12-01
AI-assisted (gemini)
Quick Answer
TRICARE does not typically cover travel costs. Emergency leave and military travel allowances are separate from TRICARE medical coverage.
Key Takeaways
- TRICARE doesn't cover travel
- Medical evacuation is different
- Emergency leave through command
- Military aid societies may help
Detailed Answer
Travel costs are generally not covered by TRICARE.
What TRICARE Covers
- Medical evacuation when needed
- Medical care at destination
- Ambulance for medical transport
- Not personal travel
Emergency Leave
- Military benefit (not TRICARE)
- Command approval required
- Travel funding varies
- Contact chain of command
When Travel May Be Covered
- Medical evacuation
- Attendant travel (limited cases)
- Part of treatment plan
Other Resources
- Military aid societies
- Emergency relief funds
- Command assistance
- Space-available travel
Important
- TRICARE is health insurance
- Travel is military benefit
- Coordinate with command
- Know your resources
Related Questions
What does TRICARE NOT cover?
TRICARE does not cover cosmetic surgery, experimental treatments, custodial care, most dental (unless separate plan), or services from non-authorized providers.
Does TRICARE cover medical evacuation?
TRICARE covers medically necessary evacuations for treatment not available locally. Cost is included in coverage but authorization is typically required.