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LIFE EVENT GUIDE
TRICARE During Deployment
When a service member deploys, family healthcare continues uninterrupted. Here's everything you need to know to manage TRICARE while your loved one is away.
Family Coverage Continues
Deployment does not affect your family's TRICARE eligibility. Spouses and children continue to receive full benefits. The deploying service member receives care through military medical channels.
Emergency Contact Numbers
| Resource | Phone Number | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| TRICARE Nurse Line | 1-800-874-2273 | 24/7 |
| Military OneSource | 1-800-342-9647 | 24/7 |
| TRICARE East (Humana) | 1-800-444-5445 | M-F 8am-6pm |
| TRICARE West (Health Net) | 1-844-866-9378 | M-F 8am-6pm |
| TRICARE Overseas (International SOS) | 1-877-678-1207 | 24/7 |
Save these numbers now. Keep them in your phone, on your refrigerator, and anywhere else easily accessible. In a medical emergency, always call 911 first.
Deployment Healthcare Checklist
1
Before Deployment
- Verify all family members are enrolled in DEERS
- Ensure spouse has ID card and knows how to use it
- Set up TRICARE Online account for spouse
- Establish or confirm PCM for all family members
- Refill all prescriptions (consider 90-day mail order)
- Complete any scheduled procedures or appointments
- Discuss power of attorney for medical decisions
2
During Deployment
- Family members continue normal TRICARE coverage
- Spouse can make enrollment changes if needed
- Use TRICARE Nurse Line for after-hours guidance
- Keep emergency contact numbers accessible
- Document any medical issues for returning service member
3
Upon Return
- Schedule post-deployment health assessment
- Re-establish care with home station PCM
- Address any health concerns from deployment
- Update DEERS if any family changes occurred
Spouse Authority During Deployment
What Spouses CAN Do
- Make medical decisions for children
- Schedule appointments and procedures
- Access TRICARE Online for the family
- Pick up prescriptions for family members
- Change PCM if needed
May Require Power of Attorney
- Major surgery decisions for children
- Changing TRICARE plan types
- Adding/removing dependents from DEERS
- Accessing service member's own medical records
Discuss power of attorney with JAG before deployment.