If you’re in the American Armed Forces, there’s a good chance you have TRICARE. You may also have TRICARE if you served in the past or if you’re a family member of someone who served or is serving. You can use TRICARE the same way you would use health insurance. The funding for your TRICARE benefits comes from the Department of Defense.

TRICARE’s plans provide coverage for medical and pharmacy benefits. You can also get dental and vision from them too. Most services will be covered by the medical benefit. The pharmacy benefit will cover medications that your provider prescribes to treat you.

Does TRICARE Cover Addiction Treatment?

If you’re on active duty, the first stop for help with substance use is your local military hospital. Your primary care manager, also known as a PCM, can give you the referrals you need and request prior authorization if needed.

All VA health systems are equipped to handle all levels of substance use treatment, including residential or inpatient treatment. TRICARE does contract with some addiction treatment centers outside of the VA system, but to go to an outside provider, you’ll first have to get prior authorization from your primary care manager (PCM).

If you’re not on active duty but still have TRICARE coverage, such as a military spouse, you’ll also need prior authorization for drug rehab if your condition isn’t an emergency. Your primary care provider can refer you and request prior authorization on your behalf.

If you’re retired and have TRICARE for Life, you can go anywhere that takes Medicare since that’s your primary payer.