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Does TRICARE cover LASIK surgery?
Verified by TRICARE.com Editorial Team
Updated 2024-12-01
AI-assisted (gemini)
Quick Answer
TRICARE does not cover LASIK or other refractive surgery. Active duty may be eligible for free LASIK through military programs at select locations.
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Key Takeaways
- Not covered by TRICARE
- Active duty may get free at military
- Warfighter program for AD
- Otherwise out-of-pocket
Detailed Answer
LASIK coverage depends on your status and circumstances.
Standard TRICARE
- LASIK not covered
- PRK not covered
- Considered elective
- Cost is out-of-pocket
Active Duty Military
- Free LASIK at select military facilities
- Warfighter Refractive Eye Surgery Program
- Based on mission requirements
- Long wait times possible
- Not guaranteed
Eligibility for Military LASIK
- Active duty only
- Certain career fields priority
- Vision prescription requirements
- No guarantee of approval
- Depends on availability
If Not Eligible
- Pay out-of-pocket
- FEDVIP may offer discounts
- Some civilian discounts available
- Shop for competitive pricing
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 vision and eye exams?
TRICARE covers eye exams for medical conditions but not routine vision care. Glasses and contacts are not covered for most beneficiaries.
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