Can TRICARE beneficiaries receive care from civilian providers?

Beneficiaries of TRICARE can indeed receive care from civilian providers, and the extent of that coverage depends on the specific TRICARE plan in which they are enrolled as well as the provider network. Different TRICARE plans offer varying degrees of access to civilian care. For instance, under plans like TRICARE Prime, beneficiaries may have limited access and may need referrals to see civilian providers, whereas TRICARE Select allows for a broader choice of both civilian and military providers without needing a referral.

Additionally, in the event that a beneficiary seeks care from a civilian provider outside of a network, different coinsurance rates and coverage rules may apply. Therefore, understanding the specifics of one's TRICARE plan and its provider networks is crucial for beneficiaries when accessing care outside of military facilities. This flexibility is essential for beneficiaries to receive the appropriate care they need when military facilities are unavailable or specialized services are necessary.