Out-of-pocket costs are increasing for some beneficiaries. Image: photo_gonzo/Shutterstock.com
By: FEDweek StaffTRICARE’s open season, which began Nov. 14, extends through Dec. 13. Beneficiaries can opt to change their coverage during its monthlong duration, with changes taking effect at the beginning of 2023. Active-duty participants are automatically enrolled and need not make any changes. Likewise, those enrolled in TRICARE for Life are automatically enrolled as long as they are covered by Medicare Part A and B. Open season also does not apply to anyone covered under premium-based plans.
Out-of-pocket costs are increasing for some beneficiaries. Again, active-duty service members and their families are not going to be affected by hikes in annual enrollment fees. Details are available on the TRICARE web site, which offers a costs tool.
Here is a sampling of some changes:
• TRICARE Select deductibles will rise to $60 from $50 for individuals and $121 from $100 for families in paygrades E-4 and below. For individuals in pay grades E-5 and above, deductibles will rise to $182 from $150. For families, the deductible will rise to $365 from $300.
• Hikes in primary, specialty, emergency room, urgent care, ambulatory surgery, ground and air outpatient ambulance, durable medical equipment, inpatient admission, and inpatient skilled nursing or rehab facility fees also are rising for TRICARE Select beneficiaries.
• Monthly premiums are rising for premium-based TRICARE Reserve Select, Retired Reserve, Young Adult Prime and Young Adult Select beneficiaries. Quarterly premiums for premium-based plans under the Continued Health Care Benefit Program are set at $1,654 for members only and $4,134 for members and their families.
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