TRICARE Glossary

Active Duty

Full-time service in any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Active Duty Family Member

ADFM

Eligible family members of active duty service members.

Allowable Charge

Maximum amount TRICARE will pay for a covered service.

Beneficiary

Person eligible to receive TRICARE benefits.

Catastrophic Cap

Maximum out-of-pocket expenses for covered services each fiscal year.

Claim

Request for payment of covered medical services.

Copayment

Fixed amount you pay for covered services.

Cost-Share

Percentage of costs you pay for covered services.

Deductible

Amount you pay before TRICARE starts cost-sharing.

Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System

DEERS

Database of all individuals eligible for military benefits.

Extended Care Health Option

ECHO

Additional benefits for qualifying disabilities and chronic conditions.

Explanation of Benefits

EOB

Statement showing how TRICARE processed your claim.

Military Treatment Facility

MTF

Military hospital or clinic providing healthcare to beneficiaries.

Network Provider

Healthcare provider contracted with TRICARE.

Primary Care Manager

PCM

Your main doctor who coordinates your healthcare.

Prime Service Area

PSA

Geographic area where TRICARE Prime is available.

Referral

Authorization from your PCM to see a specialist.

Sponsor

Active duty or retired service member whose service qualifies family for benefits.

TRICARE For Life

TFL

Medicare wraparound coverage for TRICARE-eligible beneficiaries age 65+.

TRICARE Prime

Managed care option with assigned PCM and lowest costs.

TRICARE Select

Self-managed option with provider choice and flexibility.