What preventive services are covered by Tricare?

Tricare provides a wide range of preventive services designed to maintain health and catch potential issues early on. These services aim to help beneficiaries stay healthy and prevent more serious health problems down the line. Tricare covers preventive services for various populations, including active duty service members, retirees, and their families. Some of the key preventive services covered by Tricare include routine health screenings such as annual physical examinations, immunizations, and screenings for conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and certain cancers. For instance, routine vaccinations for children and adults, such as those for influenza, hepatitis, and human papillomavirus, are typically covered. Additionally, Tricare covers screenings for breast cancer, cervical cancer, and colorectal cancer, as well as prostate cancer screening, depending on age and risk factors. Tricare also provides behavioral health screenings and counseling services, including screenings for depression and alcohol misuse, which are important for overall wellness. Expecting mothers can benefit from services such as prenatal counseling and screenings related to pregnancy. It is important to note that while many preventive services are covered at no cost when provided by an in-network provider, there could be variations in coverage depending on the specific Tricare plan a beneficiary is enrolled in. For those enrolled in Tricare Prime, for example, preventive services are generally covered without a copayment when received from a primary care manager. Beneficiaries are encouraged to stay informed about the specific preventive services available to them by visiting the official Tricare website, where they can find detailed information tailored to their individual coverage plan and circumstances. This will help them ensure they are taking full advantage of the benefits available to them.