Military Family Parents: Prepare Your Child for School with TRICARE Benefits

PHOENIX (August 25, 2025) — Military families regularly face relocations, and a new school year can bring both excitement and anxiety to get their children ready for classes.

The Defense Health Agency (DHA) wants military family parents to know TRICARE plans provide essential coverage to help get their children ready to learn.

According to DHA, military family parents should know that TRICARE covers local school district standards such as physicals and other health requirements to attend classes.

Many schools require physical exams prior to returning to classes, and TRICARE covers these exams when required for enrollment. For sports teams, however, TRICARE doesn’t cover physical exams, DHA notes.

Immunizations that are up to date are also required. School districts post requirements before the school year starts, and TRICARE covers them, as described in the TRICARE Pharmacy Program Handbook

TRICARE-authorized providers, many retail network pharmacies, and military pharmacies can provide immunizations.

Back-to-School Tip: Military family parents with school-age children should read this recent TRICARE Newsroom article on how to get your child ready for a new school year.