FAQ
Where can I get help for a traumatic brain injury (TBI) with TRICARE?
Direct answer: Start with your doctor or primary care manager, who can evaluate the injury and arrange care. TRICARE covers services that are medically necessary and considered proven. The Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence supports patients and families but does not provide medical care or referrals.
Applies to: All TRICARE plans · All regions
Details
What a TBI is
The Military Health System’s Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence (TBICoE) describes traumatic brain injury as a complex condition that can affect physical, cognitive, and behavioral functions. TBICoE is a collaboration of the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs.
Getting care
- See a provider. Talk to your doctor or primary care manager about symptoms. TBICoE says it does not provide medical care or referrals and suggests working with a medical provider. If you are in TRICARE Prime, your PCM arranges referrals; other plans have different rules, so see how referrals work.
- What TRICARE covers. TRICARE covers services that are medically necessary and considered proven; it also notes special rules or limits on some services and that some are excluded. For therapy or rehabilitation, ask your regional contractor whether a service needs pre-authorization.
- Behavioral health. TBI can overlap with mental health symptoms; see how to get mental health care.
Support and crisis help
TBICoE’s page lists the Military and Veterans Crisis Line (dial 988 and press 1, or text 838255) and Military OneSource (800-342-9647). It also links to patient and family resources and a guide for caregivers. For injured service members, see wounded warrior programs. The official page is the TBI Center of Excellence.
What to do next
Confirm this with your Primary Care Manager or regional contractor before scheduling — rules can vary by region and by service.