Who is eligible for TRICARE Prime?

TRICARE Prime is a managed care option under the TRICARE health program specifically designed for active duty service members and their families. This program is geared toward ensuring that the health care needs of active duty personnel are met while also providing coverage for their dependents, including children and spouses.

Eligibility is primarily centered around the active duty status of service members, which allows for a more structured and direct access to health care services through a network of providers. Active duty members and their families typically have fewer restrictions and can access care more readily compared to other groups.

Those who are retired military personnel, civilian employees of the Department of Defense, and veterans over 65 do have other health care options available to them, but they do not fall under the eligibility criteria for TRICARE Prime. These other groups may have different TRICARE plans or alternate health care benefits that cater to their specific status. Thus, the primary focus of TRICARE Prime remains on active duty members and their immediate family members.