Do I need travel insurance if I have TRICARE?
Quick Answer
TRICARE covers emergency care while traveling in the U.S. Overseas coverage is limited for non-active-duty beneficiaries. Consider supplemental travel insurance for medical evacuation, trip cancellation, and care in countries with limited TRICARE coverage.
Related Video
Key Takeaways
- Emergency care is covered worldwide under TRICARE
- Routine overseas care is limited for non-active-duty beneficiaries
- Medical evacuation is generally not covered for retirees traveling abroad
- Supplemental travel insurance is recommended for international trips
Detailed Answer
TRICARE provides healthcare coverage when traveling, but there are gaps that may require supplemental travel insurance depending on your destination and beneficiary status.
Traveling Within the United States
- Emergency care is covered at any hospital
- Urgent care is covered at network and non-network facilities
- TRICARE Prime: Need referral for non-emergency care outside your region
- TRICARE Select: Can see any TRICARE-authorized provider nationwide
- Prescriptions can be filled at any network pharmacy
Traveling Overseas (Non-Active Duty)
- TRICARE Standard overseas benefit provides limited coverage
- Coverage varies based on your plan and the country
- You may need to pay upfront and file claims for reimbursement
- Emergency care is covered worldwide
- Routine and elective care may not be covered overseas
What TRICARE Does NOT Cover While Traveling
- Medical evacuation (medevac) to the U.S. for non-active-duty beneficiaries
- Trip cancellation or interruption costs
- Lost luggage or travel delays
- Care in countries with no TRICARE coverage agreement
- Adventure sports or high-risk activity injuries may have limitations
When to Consider Supplemental Travel Insurance
- International travel outside of U.S. territories
- Adventure travel or high-risk activities
- Extended trips where medical evacuation may be needed
- Travel to remote areas with limited healthcare facilities
- Cruises and multi-country tours
TRICARE Overseas Program (TOP)
- Active duty and command-sponsored families overseas have full coverage through TOP
- TOP is managed by International SOS
- Non-command-sponsored family members have limited overseas coverage
- Retirees traveling overseas should consider supplemental coverage
Active Duty and Families Stationed Overseas
- Fully covered through TRICARE Overseas Program
- Use MTFs as primary care source
- International SOS manages civilian provider network
- Emergency care covered worldwide
Filing Claims for Overseas Care
- Obtain itemized receipts from overseas providers
- Submit claims to your regional contractor within one year
- Use DD Form 2642 for overseas claims
- Reimbursement is based on TRICARE allowable charges
Helpful Tips
- Purchase supplemental travel insurance with medevac coverage for international trips
- Carry your TRICARE ID card and know how to file overseas claims before traveling
- Save all receipts and itemized bills from any overseas medical care
Related TRICARE Terms
Related Questions
How does TRICARE work when I'm stationed or living overseas?
TRICARE Overseas Program provides coverage outside the U.S. with regional contractors managing Prime and Select options.
How does TRICARE cover emergency room visits and urgent care?
TRICARE covers emergency care worldwide without prior authorization. Visit nearest ER for emergencies; urgent care for non-emergencies.
Who is eligible for TRICARE Overseas?
Active duty members, retirees, and their families stationed or residing overseas are eligible for TRICARE Overseas Program coverage.
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.
See What's AvailableShare this page
Was this FAQ helpful?
Need personalized help with this?
Most military families leave benefits on the table. Our free 2-minute coverage check identifies gaps, finds potential savings, and gives you personalized recommendations.
Check My Coverage