What is a deductible in TRICARE?

A deductible in TRICARE refers to the specific amount that beneficiaries must pay out-of-pocket for covered healthcare services before TRICARE will begin to contribute its share of costs. This fundamental concept is important for understanding how TRICARE benefits work, as it establishes the initial financial responsibility of the beneficiary in accessing services.

When a beneficiary incurs medical expenses, they must reach this deductible threshold before TRICARE helps to cover costs for further services. For example, if the deductible is set at a certain amount, any medical expenses incurred will be paid by the beneficiary until they have paid that amount. After meeting the deductible, TRICARE will start to share the costs associated with covered services. This incentivizes beneficiaries to budget for their healthcare expenses and gives them a clear understanding of their financial obligations before TRICARE coverage kicks in.

The other options, while related to healthcare costs, don't correctly define what a deductible is within the TRICARE framework.