Ambulatory Surgery

Ambulatory surgery, also known as same-day surgery or outpatient surgery, refers to surgical procedures that do not require an overnight hospital admission. Patients arrive, have their procedure, and return home the same day. TRICARE covers medically necessary ambulatory surgical procedures.

Types of ambulatory surgery facilities: • Hospital outpatient surgery departments • Freestanding ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) • Military Treatment Facility surgical suites • Physician office-based surgical suites

Common ambulatory surgical procedures: • Cataract surgery • Arthroscopic procedures • Colonoscopy and endoscopy • Hernia repair • Tonsillectomy • Skin lesion removals • Carpal tunnel release

TRICARE cost-sharing for ambulatory surgery: • TRICARE Prime: Copay varies by facility type • TRICARE Select: Percentage-based cost-share after deductible • Network facilities generally cost less than non-network • MTF surgeries are at no cost to the beneficiary

Prior authorization may be required for certain ambulatory surgical procedures. Check with your provider or regional contractor before scheduling to confirm coverage and cost-sharing requirements.