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veterans
What is the difference between VA healthcare and TRICARE?
Verified by TRICARE.com Editorial Team
Updated 2024-12-01
AI-assisted (gemini)
Quick Answer
VA healthcare is for veterans based on service-connected issues and income; TRICARE is for current military, retirees with 20+ years, and their families.
Key Takeaways
- TRICARE is for military; VA is for veterans
- TRICARE covers families; VA does not
- Can use both if eligible for both
- VA based on service-connection and income
Detailed Answer
VA healthcare and TRICARE are separate programs serving different populations with different eligibility rules.
TRICARE Eligibility
- Active duty service members
- Retirees (20+ years or medical retirement)
- Family members of above
- Some reserve members
- Survivors
VA Healthcare Eligibility
- Veterans (any length of service)
- Based on service-connected disabilities
- Income-based for non-service-connected care
- No family member coverage
Key Differences
- TRICARE covers families; VA does not
- VA based on priority groups
- TRICARE has enrollment fees (some)
- VA has copays based on priority group
Using Both
- Eligible for both? Can use both
- VA for service-connected care
- TRICARE for family/other care
- Coordination possible for prescriptions
Which to Choose
- Service-connected issues: VA may be best
- Family coverage needed: TRICARE
- Convenient location: Consider both
- Prescription needs: Compare benefits