How to get your ailments diagnosed online (and covered by Tricare)
SUMMARY
Having a cough has never been more nerve wracking than during the current pandemic. In fact, it doesn't even have to be a cough. Needing to go to the doctor for any reason can send a quick thought of panic, due to current protocols. Needing something as simple as a prescription refill suddenly got complicated.
But fear not, military families! There is an easier way. Thanks to ongoing efforts to increase the logistics of telemedicine and over-the-phone appointments, Tricare beneficiaries can video chat with their doctors to receive a quick fix to many questions or prescription needs.
This includes video calls, but will not include phone calls or texts.
If you or a family member is in need of a non-urgent appointment, you can call your normal doctor's number and ask what their options are for telehealth appointments.
Tricare covers these services via telemedicine
If you or a family member has an upcoming appointment scheduled, you're likely to be contacted about rescheduling or moving the appointment to your phone. Services covered include:
- Office visits
- Preventative screenings
- Mental health services (individual psychotherapy, psychiatric diagnosis interviews/exams, and medication management)
In addition, from March 31 through May 31, Tricare has announced they will also cover telehealth services for "applied behavior analysis (ABA) parent or caregiver guidance services under the Autism Care Demonstration."
Stay up-to-date on health with social distancing
Don't skimp on important healthcare appointments just because you can't be seen in person. These distancing appointments allow Tricare patients to get the care they need, without risking germs. Additional distancing measures have been put into place on military bases, such as drive-through pharmacies, or in-vehicle triage.
Talk to your healthcare team to see if telehealth is available at your base.
