What might occur to TRICARE coverage once a service member retires?

When a service member retires, TRICARE coverage does not simply end or revert back but instead transitions to a retiree plan, which typically has different cost-sharing requirements compared to the active duty plan. This means that the former service member can still access TRICARE benefits, but the structure of those benefits—including out-of-pocket costs such as deductibles and copayments—may change.

Transitioning to a retiree plan allows the former service member and their dependents to continue receiving healthcare services under TRICARE, ensuring that they have support in managing their healthcare needs after military service. The enhancements or reductions in cost-sharing terms that come with the retiree plan reflect the change in status from active duty to retired, which aims to account for differences in the services utilized or beneficiary needs.

Therefore, the option indicating a transition to a retiree plan with different cost-sharing requirements accurately captures the change in coverage experienced by a service member upon retirement.