Military Treatment Facility
MTF
Quick Definition
Military hospital or clinic providing healthcare to beneficiaries.
Video Explanation
Full Definition
A Military Treatment Facility (MTF) is a healthcare facility operated by the Department of Defense to provide medical services to active duty service members, their families, retirees, and other eligible beneficiaries. MTFs include military hospitals and clinics on military installations.
Types of MTFs: • Military Hospitals: Full-service facilities with emergency departments, surgery, and specialized care • Military Clinics: Smaller facilities providing primary and some specialty care • Dental Clinics: Separate facilities for dental services
Benefits of using MTFs: • No out-of-pocket costs for most services • Access to military healthcare providers • Convenient on-base locations • Priority care for active duty members • Comprehensive services in one location
Who can use MTFs: • Active duty: Priority access, all care at no cost • TRICARE Prime: Assigned to MTF as primary care location when available • TRICARE Select: Space-available basis only • Retirees: Space-available based on priority system
Important: Active duty service members receive priority at MTFs, which may mean longer wait times for other beneficiaries. TRICARE Prime beneficiaries are typically enrolled to an MTF when one is available in their area. While MTF care is cost-effective, you may need referrals to civilian providers for services not available at your MTF.
Related Questions
How do I find a TRICARE provider?
Use the online provider directory on your regional contractor's website or call them directly for assistance.
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.
What TRICARE benefits do Medal of Honor recipients receive?
Medal of Honor recipients receive TRICARE Prime with no enrollment fees and priority access to military healthcare regardless of discharge status.
What is TRICARE Prime Remote?
TRICARE Prime Remote provides Prime-level benefits to active duty members and families living 50+ miles from an MTF with no enrollment fee.
What is MHS GENESIS?
MHS GENESIS is the electronic health record system for military healthcare, providing a single patient record across all MTFs and connecting to the TRICARE Patient Portal.
What are Military Treatment Facilities (MTFs)?
MTFs are military hospitals and clinics on bases that provide healthcare to eligible beneficiaries, often at lower cost than civilian facilities.
Does TRICARE cover chiropractic care?
Active duty can get chiropractic care through the Chiropractic Health Care Program at select MTFs. Other beneficiaries have limited coverage.
Related Terms
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