When TRICARE Prime beneficiaries need specialty care services, they must receive a referral from their primary care manager (PCM). Getting a referral makes sure your regional or overseas contractor authorizes the care before you make an appointment. TRICARE rules require that if the care you need is available at a military hospital or clinic near you, and there is space available, you will be referred there first. Before making an appointment with the specialty care provider, call your regional contractor 3-5 days after the PCM enters the referral to check the status. If you are overseas and are referred to a host nation provider, be sure to coordinate your care through your overseas contractor.
For more on TRICARE, visit the Military.com TRICARE section.
