How does TRICARE Select differ from TRICARE Prime?

TRICARE Select allows beneficiaries greater flexibility in choosing healthcare providers compared to TRICARE Prime. Under TRICARE Select, enrollees do not need to obtain a referral to see specialists, which means they can directly access a wider range of providers and seek specialist care more freely. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who value the autonomy to make their own healthcare decisions without the need for prior approval from a primary care manager.

In contrast, TRICARE Prime requires enrollees to choose a primary care manager who coordinates their healthcare and issues referrals for specialist care, limiting direct access to specialists. This fundamental difference in how care is accessed highlights the appeal of TRICARE Select for individuals who prefer a more independent approach to managing their healthcare.