TRICARE offers clear pathways for mental health care access

The TRICARE program provides essential mental health support for military personnel and their families, addressing needs from everyday stress to more severe mental health challenges. Jeannine Pickrell, director for Population Health and Disease Management at the Defense Health Agency, emphasizes the importance of early intervention, likening it to preventive healthcare. By engaging with a TRICARE mental health provider, individuals can prevent minor issues from escalating into serious conditions.

TRICARE offers various options for mental health care, which include: – Outpatient counseling (individual, group, or family therapy) – Intensive outpatient programs that operate multiple times a week – Partial hospitalization programs for more intensive support – Inpatient care when necessary

Accessing these services may differ depending on the specific TRICARE plan. Some beneficiaries might require a referral or pre-authorization, while others can seek care directly from TRICARE-authorized providers. Here are the steps to begin accessing care: 1. Consult your primary care manager (PCM). 2. Contact a TRICARE-authorized provider directly. 3. Explore virtual health options to connect with providers remotely.

TRICARE has expanded its mental health services to include virtual options, allowing beneficiaries to receive care from their own homes. The availability of these services varies by region: – **East Region**: Providers such as Doctor on Demand and Talkspace are accessible through Humana Military. – **West Region**: TriWest Healthcare Alliance offers similar services along with additional providers like Telemynd and Skytherapist. – **Overseas**: Beneficiaries living abroad can receive virtual health services if permitted by local regulations, although specific limitations may apply.

Emergency mental health care does not require prior authorization. If there is an immediate risk of self-harm or harm to others, it is critical to seek help right away by calling 911 or visiting the nearest emergency room. TRICARE recommends contacting your regional contractor within 24 hours after an emergency visit if admitted for care.

For non-emergency mental health services, accessibility varies based on the beneficiary’s group: – **Active duty service members**: Must initiate care at military hospitals or clinics and may request confidential evaluations from supervisors. – **TRICARE Prime beneficiaries**: Can see network providers without a referral for outpatient care, but may need one for specialty services. – **TRICARE Select beneficiaries**: Have the freedom to choose any TRICARE-authorized provider without referrals for routine care. – **TRICARE For Life beneficiaries**: Need to use Medicare providers, with TRICARE acting as secondary insurance.

National Guard and Reserve members and their families should contact their unit’s personnel office to clarify their eligibility and coverage. Those on active duty orders for over 30 days are eligible for the same benefits as active duty service members, while those on shorter orders may opt for TRICARE Reserve Select.

For further assistance, beneficiaries can utilize various resources: – Psychological Health Resource Center (866-966-1020) for community resources – Military Health System Nurse Advice Line (800-874-2273, option 1) for mental health queries – Military OneSource (800-342-9647) for non-medical counseling – Local unit or military chaplains for additional non-medical support – U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or VetCenter for veterans seeking services

Taking the first step toward mental health care can be daunting, but TRICARE is committed to supporting beneficiaries. Access to mental health services is vital, and TRICARE provides a structured approach to ensure that individuals receive the care they need at the right time. Recognizing and acting on mental health needs is an essential part of overall health management.