Service members who are eligible for health care benefits from TRICARE and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) should take comfort in the fact that these two programs can work side-by-side to help ensure your health needs are met.

TRICARE and VA benefits and coverage may differ depending on the treatment sought and the facility where the services will be performed. Many VA facilities participate in the TRICARE network, but you might have to use your VA coverage for certain service-related care. For care that is covered by TRICARE and is not for a service-related condition, TRICARE may cover treatment at a VA medical facility if it is in the TRICARE network. TRICARE has put together a list comparing TRICARE and VA benefits.

Status Change

Your TRICARE coverage may change if you separate from active duty. You can read more about transitioning from TRICARE to the VA here.

Whichever program you use for your health care, all program rules must be followed to ensure claims are processed correctly. You should also ensure your eligibility by:

• Making sure your information in DEERS is updated;
• Enrolling in the VA Health Care System within the appropriate timeframe;
• Registering on www.triwest.com to view your TRICARE eligibility.

The VA representative at a nearby Veterans Benefits Administration facility, or a Veterans Service Organization advisor, can help you with this process.

To learn if a certain VA facility is part of the TRICARE network, search TriWest’s Online Provider Directory by location, name, group name, facility, or specialty.

TriWest Healthcare Alliance does not manage eligibility or benefits for any VA programs. Visit www.va.gov or call 1-877-222-VETS (222-8387) for more information.

Other Resources

• Veterans Affairs Benefits