Before you know it, medical expenses can easily rack up, especially when taking care of an entire family. Even with a good insurance plan like TRICARE, you may still be on the hook for out-of-pocket costs. This is where TRICARE Supplemental Insurance comes in.
This blog discusses overall TRICARE basics, TRICARE Supplemental Insurance, and its benefits.
Understanding TRICARE
TRICARE, a healthcare program administrated by the United States Department of Defense Military Health System, offers affordable and essential coverage for active duty service members (ADSMs). This program also combines military resources, such as military hospitals, with civilian resources, such as pharmacies and other healthcare professionals.
TRICARE Eligibility
TRICARE is available to the following:
- Active duty service members
- National Guard and Reserve members
- Retirees
- Survivors
- Family members
TRICARE Costs
Active duty service members often don’t have many out-of-pocket costs, but beneficiaries might, depending on certain factors such as plan type. Other costs may include enrollment fees, premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and cost shares.
So, long story short, TRICARE doesn’t cover it all and you could still be on the hook for out-of-pocket expenses. You may be wondering “how can I get help with medical expenses?” Well, this is where TRICARE Supplemental Insurance comes in. Let’s take a look at how it can help.
TRICARE Supplemental Insurance
Supplemental insurance, in general, is additional coverage that can help pay for healthcare costs that the individual’s primary plan doesn’t cover. TRICARE Supplemental Insurance bridges the gap between TRICARE and having full coverage. It helps military members by reimbursing them for healthcare costs after TRICARE pays its portion.
Different Plans
There are various TRICARE Supplemental Insurance plans that help with co-payments, excess charges, and more, as well as provide additional benefits. Plans include the following:
- TRICARE Select
- TRICARE Prime
- TRICARE Reserve Select
- TRICARE Retired Reserve
Make sure to research each plan, its rules, and consider your family’s needs before making a final decision. For example, the cost of a supplemental plan with the TRICARE Prime plan may exceed your out-of-pocket expenses.
Benefits of TRICARE Supplemental Insurance
There are many benefits of adding TRICARE Supplemental Insurance for you and your family, including the following:
- Financial security
- Reduces out-of-pocket costs
- Coverage for pricey treatments, medications, etc.
- Expanded network options
GEA is Here to Help
When healthcare costs get overwhelming, it’s key to have TRICARE Supplemental Insurance to back you up. GEA’s TRICARE Supplemental Insurance plan can help reduce or eliminate costs for ER visits, excess charges, co-pays, and more.
Help protect you and your family with GEA’s competitively priced premiums and comprehensive coverage. Visit our website or contact us to learn more.
