How does TRICARE cover NICU and premature baby care?
Quick Answer
TRICARE covers all medically necessary NICU care for newborns including hospitalization, specialist care, equipment, and follow-up care.
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Key Takeaways
- Full NICU coverage
- No prior authorization
- Follow-up care covered
- Case management available
Detailed Answer
NICU coverage is comprehensive under TRICARE.
What's Covered
- All NICU hospitalization
- Specialist care
- Respiratory support
- Feeding support
- Surgery if needed
- Medical equipment
During NICU Stay
- No prior authorization needed
- 24/7 care covered
- Parent accommodations (some)
- Transfer to other facilities
Costs
- Active duty family: Very low
- Prime: Inpatient copays
- Select: Cost shares apply
- Catastrophic cap protects you
After NICU Discharge
- Home health if needed
- DME for home
- Specialist follow-up
- Developmental monitoring
- Early intervention referral
Support Services
- Case management
- Family support
- New Parent Support Program
- EFMP if ongoing needs
Related Questions
What maternity and pregnancy services does TRICARE cover?
TRICARE covers comprehensive maternity care including prenatal visits, delivery, and postpartum care for all eligible beneficiaries.
Does TRICARE cover home health care?
TRICARE covers skilled home health care including nursing, therapy, and aide services when medically necessary and authorized.
How does TRICARE cover pregnancy and maternity care?
TRICARE covers comprehensive maternity care including prenatal visits, delivery, postpartum care, and newborn care at no or low cost.
What do most military families add to their TRICARE coverage?
Supplemental health insurance is the most common addition — it covers dental, vision, and out-of-pocket costs that TRICARE leaves uncovered. Life insurance and a legal will are also highly recommended.
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