As a result of the exclusion of retirees over age 65 from participation in TriCare, subvention is seen by some as the solution, and indeed would benefit those who live in close proximity to an MTF, or within a TriCare Prime catchment area. However, many over the age 65 retirees would still be excluded because they live outside the designated areas. The situation will worsen as MTFs close or downsize to clinic status. Allowing ALL retirees, regardless of age or place of residence, the opportunity to participate in the Tricare Extra and Mail Order Pharmacy Benefit now available to those living in a BRAC area, would be the fairest solution. Indeed, those retirees who believe a promise of lifetime health care was made to prospective recruits in return for 20 or more years of service, are correct, and the promise should be honored to the extent possible given the fiscal reality.
Retirees can understand and accept changes, if they are perceived as necessary and equitable.
Details will be announced soon. Subvention will allow Medicare-eligible military retirees to enroll in DoD managed health care delivery system on a test basis. However, only a small portion of the Medicare-eligible retirees will be allowed to enroll in the test program. Military retirees and family members receive military medical care only on a space-available basis, and access to all of the care they may need might not be available when they need it. The appearance of hyperlinks does not constitute endorsement by the U.S. Air Force of this Web site or the information, products, or services contained therein.