Do you discuss vacation plans with your patients?
In a recently issued statement from TRICARE, officials laid out advice for patients who are traveling, noting that although most travelers do not require medical care while away, they should be prepared in the event they do.1
“Most travelers won’t need medical care during their trip, but…you don’t want to be caught off guard by the process,” Danielle McCammon, chief, TRICARE Overseas Program, TRICARE Health Plan, Defense Health Agency, said in the prepared statement. “Taking time to understand coverage and prepare before leaving will save stress and confusion.”
First and foremost, TRICARE coverage travels with your patient. However, knowing the right steps to take can make all the difference in getting timely care and avoiding unexpected costs.
For instance, if a patient experiences an emergency while traveling, urge them to call 911. Or, go to the nearest emergency department, since TRICARE covers emergency care during travel.
Those with TRICARE Prime options are encouraged to call their primary care manager or regional contractor within 24 hours or the next business day after getting emergency care. Patients can also avail themselves of urgent care from any TRICARE-authorized urgent care center or network provider. Arming patients with the Find a Doctor tool for browsing the provider directory can help them prepare for an urgent matter before traveling.
The Military Health System Nurse Advice Line is also available, 24/7.
For patients who live in the United States and see a network provider there, claims are filed on their behalf. Those patients who have other health insurance or travel insurance must file with them before submitting to TRICARE.
Patients needing to locate a TRICARE Overseas network provider should use the TRICARE Overseas Provider search tool.
Financial procedures work differently overseas. Patients may be required to pay up front and file a claim for reimbursement. To file for reimbursement, patients will need a completed DD2642, an itemized bill, and proof of payment. Submit all claims for care received overseas to International SOS. Proper documentation from the start makes the reimbursement process much smoother. Patients have 3 years from the date of service to submit an overseas claim. Keep all receipts, itemized bills, and medical records.
With the right preparation and understanding of benefits, your patients can focus on enjoying their travels instead of worrying about potential healthcare needs. For more information, visit Getting Care When Traveling.
Reference
- TRICARE Communications. Getting care while you travel: a TRICARE guide for the U.S. and overseas. June 17, 2025. Accessed July 16, 2025. https://newsroom.tricare.mil/News/TRICARE-News/Article/4219383/getting-care-while-you-travel-a-tricare-guide-for-the-us-and-overseas