TRICARE Select
Quick Definition
Self-managed option with provider choice and flexibility.
Video Explanation
Full Definition
TRICARE Select is a self-managed, preferred provider organization (PPO) plan offering maximum flexibility to choose your own healthcare providers without referrals. In exchange for this flexibility, Select has higher out-of-pocket costs than Prime.
Key features of TRICARE Select: • Choose any TRICARE-authorized provider • No referrals needed for specialty care • Annual deductibles apply • Cost-shares vary by network status • Available worldwide • No enrollment required for most beneficiaries
Who can use Select: • Active duty family members • Retirees and their families • Anyone eligible for TRICARE who doesn't enroll in Prime • Available everywhere, not just PSAs
Costs (2024) Enrollment fees (annual): • ADFMs (E-5 and above): $231 individual / $462 family • Retirees (Group A): $217 individual / $434 family • Retirees (Group B): $318 individual / $636 family
Deductibles and cost-shares also apply based on beneficiary status and provider network status.
Benefits of Select: • Freedom to choose any authorized provider • See specialists without referrals • Geographic flexibility • Mix of network and non-network care • Space-available MTF access
Limitations: • Higher out-of-pocket costs • Annual deductibles • Must file claims with non-network providers • Balance billing possible with non-network
Best for: Beneficiaries who value provider choice, live outside Prime Service Areas, travel frequently, prefer managing their own care, or have established relationships with non-military providers.
TRICARE Select trades lower costs for greater freedom. While you'll pay more than Prime, you get complete control over provider selection and don't need referrals, making it ideal for those who prioritize flexibility over cost savings.
Related Questions
What is TRICARE?
TRICARE is the healthcare program for uniformed service members, retirees, and their families worldwide.
What is the difference between TRICARE Prime and TRICARE Select?
TRICARE Prime is a managed care option with a primary care manager and lower costs. TRICARE Select offers more flexibility to choose providers with higher out-of-pocket expenses.
How do I enroll in TRICARE?
Ensure you're registered in DEERS, then choose your plan during open enrollment or within 90 days of a qualifying life event.
Can my adult children get TRICARE coverage?
Yes, through TRICARE Young Adult (TYA) for qualified dependents ages 21-26 who are not eligible for employer health coverage.
How does TRICARE work when stationed overseas?
TRICARE Overseas Program (TOP) provides coverage for service members and families stationed outside the US through military facilities and civilian providers.
What TRICARE options are available for Reserve and National Guard members?
Reserve and Guard members have TRICARE Reserve Select when not activated, and regular TRICARE when on active duty orders over 30 days.
Does TRICARE cover mental health services?
Yes, TRICARE covers mental health services including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care with the same cost-shares as medical services.
How does TRICARE cover pregnancy and maternity care?
TRICARE covers comprehensive maternity care including prenatal visits, delivery, postpartum care, and newborn care at no or low cost.
Can I change my TRICARE plan and when?
You can change TRICARE plans during annual Open Enrollment (late fall) or within 90 days of a Qualifying Life Event.
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 preventive care services does TRICARE cover?
TRICARE covers comprehensive preventive care at no cost including annual checkups, vaccines, cancer screenings, and wellness visits.
What's the difference between a referral and prior authorization?
Referrals allow you to see specialists (Prime requirement). Prior authorization is approval needed before certain services regardless of plan.
Do surviving family members keep TRICARE after a service member dies?
Yes, surviving family members retain TRICARE coverage indefinitely if the sponsor died on active duty or after retirement with 20+ years of service.
How does TRICARE cover autism spectrum disorder?
TRICARE covers autism diagnosis, ABA therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and medication through the Comprehensive Autism Care Demonstration.
What is TRICARE Young Adult and who qualifies?
TRICARE Young Adult extends coverage to unmarried adult children aged 21-26 who aren't eligible for employer-sponsored insurance.
Who qualifies for TRICARE Reserve Select?
Selected Reserve members not on active duty orders who commit to remaining in the Selected Reserve qualify for TRS.
How do I switch between TRICARE Prime and Select?
You can switch plans during the annual Open Season (Nov-Dec) or after a Qualifying Life Event like PCS, birth, or marriage.
What happened to TRICARE Standard and Extra?
TRICARE Standard and Extra were replaced by TRICARE Select on January 1, 2018, offering similar coverage with updated cost structures.
What are the main differences between all TRICARE plans?
TRICARE offers Prime, Select, For Life, Reserve Select, Retired Reserve, and Young Adult plans with varying costs, networks, and eligibility requirements.
Related Terms
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