Oct. 2, 2023

U.S. Military Departments Implement Brandon Act to Improve Mental Health Support

FALLS CHURCH, VA — The three military departments have officially implemented phase one of the Brandon Act with their own policies and procedures to initiate support to service members’ request for mental health assistance. The Brandon Act was signed into law by President Biden on Dec. 27, 2021, as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022. The former Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, Gilbert R. Cisneros Jr., signed a policy on May 5, 2023, to initiate the act within the Department of Defense.

Aug. 29, 2023

Copayments, Cost-Shares, and Other TRICARE Costs You Should Know

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — When it comes to health care costs, “copayment,” “cost-share,” and “deductible” are terms you might hear a lot. But what do these terms mean, and how might they affect you?

Aug. 9, 2023

How To Find Your TRICARE Referrals

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — If you have a TRICARE Prime plan, referrals play a big role in how you get health care. A referral is when your primary care manager (PCM) sends you to see another provider. If your PCM needs to refer you to a civilian provider, your TRICARE regional contractor also plays a role in the referral process.

July 18, 2023

TRICARE Q&A: Managing Your DEERS Record

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — Has it been a while since the last time you checked your Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) record? If so, take a moment to make sure your information is up to date.

July 13, 2023

Key to Beating Burnout: Prioritizing Self-Care

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — Many service members work in high stress high intensity environments, and the demands of the mission and challenges posed by military life can lead to a risk of burnout. If you or someone you care about is showing signs of burnout, talk to your doctor or a trusted individual for assistance.

June 27, 2023

All Trauma Can Cause Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — Post-traumatic stress disorder is commonly associated with combat-related trauma, but service members may not know that PTSD can also be caused by experiences beyond the battlefield.

May 1, 2023

New TRICARE Dental Program Premiums Start May 1

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) premium rates go into effect each year on May 1. Premiums are what you pay each month for TDP coverage. The new TDP rates are effective May 1, 2023 through April 30, 2024.

March 22, 2023

Before Seeing the Dentist, Learn What TRICARE Dental Program Covers

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — Whether you’re seeing the dentist for a routine checkup or getting emergency dental care, the TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) covers a wide variety of dental services. It’s important to know which services TDP covers before your next dental visit.

Feb. 23, 2023

Q&A: Getting and Using Referrals With TRICARE

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — You’ve likely heard the term “referral” in connection with health care. But what exactly is a referral—and how do you know if you need one? A referral is when your primary care manager (PCM) or primary care provider sends you to another provider or specialist for care.

Feb. 15, 2023

Make Your Vision a Year-Round Priority

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — Vision and eye health are an important part of supporting an overall healthy lifestyle. Here’s an overview of vision coverage for active duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, retirees, and their eligible family members.