Which TRICARE plan is best for my family?

Choosing the right TRICARE plan depends on several factors:

Choose TRICARE Prime If

• You live near an MTF
• You want lowest out-of-pocket costs
• You don't mind getting referrals
• You prefer assigned providers
• Cost is your primary concern

Choose TRICARE Select If

• You want flexibility in choosing providers
• You dislike referral requirements
• You live far from an MTF
• You have established civilian doctors
• You travel frequently

Cost Considerations

• Prime: Enrollment fee (retirees), minimal copays
• Select: No enrollment fee, higher cost-shares (20-25%)
• Calculate annual expected costs for your situation

Questions to Ask

• How close is the nearest MTF?
• Do we need many specialist visits?
• Do we want to keep current civilian doctors?
• How important is cost vs convenience?

Special Situations

• Active duty: Automatically in Prime (family can choose)
• Retirees: Full choice between options
• TFL: Works with any Medicare provider