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What does TRICARE NOT cover?
Verified by TRICARE.com Editorial Team
Updated 2024-12-01
AI-assisted (gemini)
Quick Answer
TRICARE does not cover cosmetic surgery, experimental treatments, custodial care, most dental (unless separate plan), or services from non-authorized providers.
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Key Takeaways
- Cosmetic surgery generally excluded
- Dental requires separate enrollment
- Some treatments need medical necessity
- Verify coverage before services
Detailed Answer
Understanding what TRICARE excludes helps avoid unexpected costs.
Generally NOT Covered
- Cosmetic or plastic surgery (unless medically necessary)
- Experimental or investigational treatments
- Custodial or domiciliary care
- Most dental services (separate dental plan)
- Most vision services (routine eye exams excluded)
- Services not medically necessary
- Services from non-licensed providers
Specific Exclusions
- Hair transplants
- Weight loss surgery (except when medically necessary)
- Acupuncture (unless at MTF or under pilot program)
- Chiropractic (except through TRICARE Chiropractic Program)
- Over-the-counter medications
- Personal comfort items
Limited Coverage
- Fertility treatments (some services only)
- Hearing aids (limited to some beneficiaries)
- Massage therapy (limited circumstances)
How to Verify
- Check TRICARE.mil for coverage details
- Call TRICARE contractor
- Ask provider before treatment
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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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