Update: TRICARE Statement About Government Shutdown

"We know that those who rely on the Military Health System (MHS) are concerned about how the government shutdown might impact their health care and are taking appropriate actions to assure that our beneficiaries are cared for.

TRICARE beneficiaries using providers in the private sector should feel no effects at this time.

The Defense Health Agency has authorized its managed care support contractors to continue to administer their contracts and deliver health care. The Contractors expect to receive claims from providers, which will ultimately be reimbursed by the DHA. If the shutdown continues, DHA leadership will look at the best way to support our contractors and beneficiaries.

The MHS leadership - comprised of the assistant secretary of defense for Health Affairs, the director of the Defense Health Agency, and the surgeons general of the military departments – are closely monitoring the impact of a government shutdown on the health services provided to our 9.6 million beneficiaries."

Please also be aware that during the government shutdown, TRICARE will not be able to process or pay TRICARE travel claims for the TRICARE Prime or the Combat-Related Specialty Care travel benefits. You may still file your travel claim. TRICARE will review claims for eligibility and process them once the government shutdown ends.

TRICARE for Life, funded by a separate annuity account, is currently unaffected by the government shutdown.

If you have questions about your benefits, please contact your regional contractor or the appropriate contractor (i.e. pharmacy, dental, etc.). Visit the Contact Us page for a complete list of toll-free numbers.

To get the latest information by email about any change in the effect of the government shutdown on TRICARE, subscribe to benefit updates and get email alerts at www.tricare.mil/subscriptions.