Differences in TRICARE Prime and TRICARE Select and Considerations for Choosing

Choosing between TRICARE Prime and TRICARE Select depends on your healthcare needs, your preferences, and other factors such as location and availability. Let’s compare Prime and Select then we’ll look at some additional factors to consider.

TRICARE Prime

• Type: Managed care option, similar to a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO).
• Primary Care Manager (PCM): You will have a designated PCM who coordinates your care and provides referrals to specialists.
• Cost: Generally lower out-of-pocket costs, but requires referrals for specialist care.
• Availability: Only available in certain areas, known as Prime Service Areas.
• Convenience: Offers more structured care with fewer choices of providers.

TRICARE Select

• Type: Self-managed care option, similar to a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO).
• Flexibility: Greater freedom to choose your healthcare providers without needing referrals.
• Cost: Higher out-of-pocket costs than TRICARE Prime, especially if you see out-of-network providers.
• Availability: Available worldwide, providing more flexibility for those living in remote or overseas locations.
• Convenience: More choices in providers, but you manage your care.

Additional Considerations

1. Location: Check if TRICARE Prime is available in your area. If not, TRICARE Select might be your only option.
2. Healthcare Needs: If you want a primary care manager and lower costs, TRICARE Prime might be better. If you want more flexibility in choosing providers, TRICARE Select could be the way to go.
3. Cost: Consider your budget and how much you’re willing to pay out-of-pocket.
4. Lifestyle: If you travel frequently or live overseas, TRICARE Select offers more flexibility.

Check out our 3-part TRICARE Series:

• Tricare 101
• Looking at TRICARE Options
• TRICARE Prime vs TRICARE Select

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