🏥 Healthcare

TRICARE Prime

Managed-care option with a Primary Care Manager; low or no out-of-pocket costs.

Official sourceDefense Health Agency (TRICARE)
Official website
Last verified 2026-07-13·Effective Ongoing

What it is

HMO-style plan available in Prime Service Areas. Active-duty members pay $0; other beneficiaries have low annual enrollment fees and copays. Referrals from the PCM are required for most specialty care.

Who qualifies

  • Active-duty, active-duty family members, retirees under 65 and their families in Prime Service Areas.

How to apply

  1. 1Register the family in DEERS.
  2. 2Enroll at tricare.mil or by phone with your regional contractor (East: Humana Military; West: TriWest).
Apply on the official website

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a referral?
Yes for most specialty care; urgent care is available without referral under current TRICARE policy.