New changes in the way you use TRICARE

By SPC Paxton Busch (PRMC)April 2, 2014

Making the change to TRICARE online
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Quick, easy steps to get started
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The TRICARE Service Center at Tripler Army Medical Center along with offices across the U.S. will close on April 1, 2014. TRICARE beneficiaries will still be able to manage benefits through TRICARE online self-service options at TRICARE.mil. Under the "I want to…" section of the website, users can enroll or purchase a plan, file or check a claim, view referrals and prior authorizations, find a doctor and even schedule appointments and more.

Christie Thies, military family member, says enrolling in TRICAREonline.com works with her family's busy schedule. "Having four children, time management is a must in our family and we have many appointments that take priority. Tricare online is simple, convenient, and quick. I can make an appointment for all my children and self within a few minutes," she said.

In addition to scheduling appointments through TRICARE online, qualified beneficiaries can also refill prescriptions. "My favorite feature is the prescription refill; this too saves me time from calling the doctor and waiting for the refilled to be placed," says Thies.

Prior to enrolling in the free services Christie felt there would be too many loops to maneuver around the website, but since signing up she's changed her mind. "This program will benefit other families by cutting out the middle man on the phone, talking through dates and when you can see it for yourself online and make several appointments at once. The discreteness of the website is perfect," she says.

For more information on booking appointments online and other services, visit TRICAREonline.com.

For a full list of TRICARE self-service options, visit TRICARE.mil.

For assistance over the phone, call TRICARE's toll-free number at 1-877-988-9378 for the TRICARE West region.