Non-Availability Statement

A Non-Availability Statement (NAS) is an electronic authorization documenting that a specific healthcare service is not available at the Military Treatment Facility (MTF) in your area. An NAS may be required before TRICARE will cover certain inpatient services at a civilian hospital.

When an NAS is required: • For non-emergency inpatient admissions at civilian hospitals • When you live within the catchment area of an MTF (typically within a 40-mile radius) • For specific services that your MTF could potentially provide

When an NAS is NOT required: • Emergency admissions • Services not offered at any MTF • When you live outside an MTF catchment area • Most outpatient services • TRICARE Select beneficiaries (in most cases)

How the NAS process works: • Your MTF determines a service is unavailable • The NAS is entered electronically into the TRICARE system • Your civilian provider can then provide the covered service • TRICARE processes the claim with the NAS on file

Without a required NAS, you may be financially responsible for the full cost of care. Always verify NAS requirements with your MTF before seeking civilian inpatient care.