How to use TRICARE with other insurance?

Using TRICARE with other health insurance (OHI) involves coordination of benefits to ensure claims are properly processed between the two insurers. In most cases, the other health insurance pays first as the primary payer, and TRICARE pays second as the secondary payer, covering some or all of the remaining costs. This coordination can significantly reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket expenses. You must report any other health insurance to your TRICARE regional contractor and update your DEERS record with OHI information. When seeking care, present both insurance cards and inform the provider that you have dual coverage. The provider will bill the primary insurance first, and any remaining eligible charges will be submitted to TRICARE. Exceptions to the standard coordination include TRICARE For Life beneficiaries (Medicare pays first, TRICARE second), active duty service members (TRICARE is always primary), and auto insurance or workers' compensation claims (those insurers pay first). Having OHI does not prevent you from using TRICARE benefits, and in many cases dual coverage results in lower total out-of-pocket costs. Keep both insurance policies active and current, and respond promptly to any coordination of benefits questionnaires from either insurer.