Question:
How long for approval?

I am waitingon apporval from Triacre for surgery. How long does it usually take? I am getting impatient LOL    — Nicole S. (posted on October 5, 1999)

October 5, 1999
Hi. My approval took almost a month. How long have you been waiting?
   — Jaye C.

October 5, 1999
I was told approval could take about a month, but mine came in four days on the first try. I am hopeful yours will too.
   — Bridget M.

October 5, 1999
HI. My approval took about six weeks, I think. It came through fine though.
   — Dori H.

October 5, 1999
HI. My approval took about six weeks, I think. It came through fine though.
   — Dori H.

October 9, 2000
Hi Nicole, My PCM at the local Navy Hospital just put in my referral this past Friday afternoon (10/6) to see a civilian surgeon for WLS. I called the Tricare Health Finder number this morning (10/9) just to verify that they received the referral and they gave me an authorization number for the first 3 visits for evaluation right there on the spot. I was blown away! I asked her what the process is from here & she said once I get my evaluation completed (with possible nutrition & psych evals, thus the 3 appts.) then it is up to the surgeon to submit the pre-op packet to Tricare for surgery authorization. She said normally that takes about a week. I plan to call every day for status. Be persistent and make sure you stay in close contact with your local Tricare Health Finder - they have been VERY helpful to me and have answered about a zillion questions very patiently! Good Luck!
   — Laura B.

September 30, 2002
Hi, My approval for the evaluation/consultation took a whopping 2 hours. I could not believe it. My PCP faxed Tricare Prime and within two hours they faxed back that it was approved!! Mary Lynn
   — Mary J.