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In the National Guard or Reserve? Learn about your health care options

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  • By TRICARE Communications

Are you a National Guard or Reserve member? Check out the TRICARE Choices for National Guard and Reserve Handbook. You can refer to this handbook to learn about your health care options, whether you’re activated, deactivated or retired.

This handbook explains your options based on your deployment status, location, or age. It also lists costs terms and describes dental and vision options.

“This National Guard and Reserve handbook is a great launching point to show you what programs are available to you both stateside and overseas,” said Robert Agnello, deputy chief of the Digital Communications, TRICARE Web and Publications at the Defense Health Agency. “The handbook also gives an overview of how to enroll, how to get care once enrolled, and some cost terms to be aware of.”
 
1. View Your Options Based on Your Deployment Status, Location, or Age
Your TRICARE plan options change depending on whether you’re eligible for active duty benefits, or you’re deactivated or inactive. Depending on your eligibility, options for you or your family may include:

Who’s eligible for these coverage options and how do they work? You can find answers to these questions in the TRICARE Choices for National Guard and Reserve Handbook.
 
2. Explore Your Dental and Vision Options
Did you know you or your family may be eligible to purchase dental or vision coverage? This handbook covers these options. You can learn more about the TRICARE Dental Program (TDP), Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP), and TRICARE Active Duty Dental Program (ADDP).
 
3. Discover Other National Guard and Reserve Resources
In addition to the TRICARE Choices for National Guard and Reserve Handbook, there are a number of resources available to you on the TRICARE National Guard/Reserve Members and Families page. Or are you retiring from the National Guard or Reserve? See how programs vary based on you or your sponsor’s age by downloading the TRICARE Retiring from the National Guard or Reserve Brochure on the TRICARE Publications page.
 
And to search for individual plan costs, including any enrollment fees or premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs, go to the TRICARE Compare Cost Tool. You can also download the latest Costs and Fees Fact Sheet on the TRICARE Publications page.