Question:
re: tricare

i had asked a question a while back about if i should switch to tricare standard from prime. well i got a straight answer from tricare. there are no network providers that are in a 100 mile radius area in the virginia beach, va that would take tricare. and the only medical facility that is doing the wls surgeries in portsmouth hospital. you will have to switch to tricare standard to go and have the surgery out in town. yes there is a catastriphic cat that is $ 1000.00 for active duty and $ 3000. for reservist and retired members. the deductable that is $150.00 because you can only switch your self and then 20% of everything else. well the catastrophic cap only works if you paid up to the $1000.00, if all of your medical expensis done not cover that all the way up to surgery then it gones into tricare covering 80% and you are covering 20% and that is going to coast you in the long run. it may be different in other areas but this is how it is here in virginia beach area. i just thought that i would give you all the info that i have for those of you looking to switch like i was. i am going to wait my turn like i should.    — [Anonymous] (posted on October 17, 2005)

October 17, 2005
What about non-network providers? I don't think Tricare has any network WLS providers.
   — essie13

October 17, 2005
I have Tricare Prime, and though i currently live in FL, i know for a fact that there ARE in-network WLS surgeons through tricare prime. One easy way to avoid insurance mess would be to have it done on a military base....and yes, there are plenty of bases that offer the surgery. It just takes a lot of time, phone calls, etc. to figure it all out. The nice thing about being in the Virginia Beach area is that there are TONS of bases! Air force, navy, army, doesn't matter the branch, ANY military hospital which offers RNY will do yours if you or your spouse are active duty. Another thing about tricare, do not always believe what you are told by the customer service reps. If i were you i would NOT switch to tricare standard.....tricare prime will cover the surgery in full. If you or anyone else has any questions for me, please email me at [email protected] and i will do my best to help. :)
   — Sarah L.

October 17, 2005
they all are none network providers, they all are non- network providers
   — [Anonymous]

October 18, 2005
i JUST HAD WLS DONE AND DID NOT HAVE TO PAY ANTHING OUT OF POCKET. i MYSELF HAVE TRICARE PRIME. I DON'T KNOW WHY SOMEONE TOLD YOU THAT/
   — [Anonymous]

October 22, 2005
I had my surgery performed 12/2004. I have Tricare Standard and my surgery was covered. Not to mention, it was done laparoscopically. Please try contacting Dr. Glen Moore of Tidewater Surgical Associates located in Chesapeake, VA. Good luck!
   — Donness O.