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What gender-affirming care does TRICARE cover?
Verified by TRICARE.com Editorial Team
Updated 2024-12-01
AI-assisted (gemini)
Quick Answer
TRICARE covers some gender-affirming care including mental health services and hormone therapy. Surgical coverage has specific criteria.
Key Takeaways
- Mental health covered
- Hormone therapy covered
- Surgery has criteria
- Authorization often needed
Detailed Answer
Gender-affirming care coverage has evolved over time.
Currently Covered
- Mental health counseling
- Hormone therapy
- Some surgical procedures
- Ongoing medical care
Requirements
- Diagnosis of gender dysphoria
- Treatment plan
- Provider qualifications
- Authorization may be needed
Mental Health
- Assessment and diagnosis
- Ongoing therapy
- Support services
- Family counseling
Medical Treatment
- Hormone therapy covered
- Monitoring and labs
- Related medications
Surgical Options
- Specific criteria must be met
- Prior authorization required
- Provider requirements
- Evolving coverage policies
Related Questions
What services require prior authorization?
Prior authorization is needed for many inpatient stays, some surgeries, specialty services, DME, and certain high-cost procedures regardless of plan.
What mental health services does TRICARE cover?
TRICARE covers outpatient therapy, psychiatry, inpatient treatment, intensive outpatient programs, substance abuse treatment, and crisis intervention.