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Does TRICARE cover ambulance transportation?
Verified by TRICARE.com Editorial Team
Updated 2024-12-01
AI-assisted (gemini, gpt-4o)
Quick Answer
TRICARE covers emergency ambulance transport (ground and air) when medically necessary. Prime: $25 copay. Select: 20% cost-share.
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Key Takeaways
- Emergency transport covered
- Prime $25 copay
- Air ambulance covered
- Medical necessity required
Detailed Answer
TRICARE ambulance coverage:
What Is Covered
- Emergency ground ambulance
- Emergency air ambulance
- Non-emergency transport (when approved)
- Basic and advanced life support
When Covered
- Life-threatening emergencies
- When other transport inappropriate
- Medical necessity documented
- Nearest appropriate facility
Cost-Shares
- Prime: $25 copay per trip
- Select: 20% cost-share
- Air ambulance higher
- Subject to deductibles
What Is NOT Covered
- Convenience transport
- When car would work
- Long-distance transfers (usually)
- Non-emergency without approval
Air Ambulance
- Covered when medically necessary
- Remote locations
- Time-critical cases
- Can be very expensive
- Cost-shares apply
Helpful Tips
- Call 911 for emergencies
- Non-emergency needs approval
- Keep documentation
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What do most military families add to their TRICARE coverage?
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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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