NOVEMBER 3, 2025 – Have you ever wondered about the differences between the various TRICARE plans? With TRICARE Open Season 2025 right around the corner, now is a perfect time to learn about TRICARE’s wide range of coverage options. Knowing the differences will ensure the right coverage for you and your family members.
“There are some differences in the types of plans TRICARE offers,” said Zelly Zim, senior program analyst, Policy & Programs Division, TRICARE Health Plan, at the Defense Health Agency. “Provider preference, out-of-pocket costs, and referrals and pre-authorizations are all factors to consider when making your choice.”
TRICARE Open Season starts Monday, Nov. 10, and runs through Tuesday, Dec. 9. Learning about these plans now—whether you’re enrolling for the first time or making changes to fit your needs—will help you decide if you want to make changes to your coverage effective Jan. 1, 2026.
Comparing options
The easiest way to understand different TRICARE plans is to compare them in three simple steps:
- Use the TRICARE Plan Finder. Answer a few questions and see which plans you may be eligible for.
- Compare plans using the TRICARE Compare Plans Tool. Note differences in coverage, provider networks, and referral requirements.
- Review your family’s 2025 costs carefully. 2026 costs will be available in early November.
There’s no need to compare plans if you’re on active duty or have TRICARE For Life. Coverage is automatic for active duty service members. TFL coverage is automatic if you have Medicare Part A and Part B.
TRICARE plans at a glance
TRICARE offers health plans designed to meet your needs. Two of the most common options are TRICARE Prime and TRICARE Select.
TRICARE Prime
TRICARE Prime works like a health maintenance organization. It typically offers lower out-of-pocket costs, but your care is managed through a primary care manager. You’ll usually need referrals for specialty care. If you don’t mind a structured approach, TRICARE Prime is a good fit.
TRICARE Select
With TRICARE Select you don’t need a PCM, and you can see any TRICARE-authorized provider without a referral. This plan is good for those who want more flexibility with providers, though it generally has higher out-of-pocket costs.
If you’re interested in comparing TRICARE Prime to TRICARE Select, check out the TRICARE Open Season roadmap.
Other options
In addition to these options, TRICARE offers several others that may be a good fit, depending on where you live:
Overseas
For those stationed or living abroad, TRICARE offers both TRICARE Prime Overseas and TRICARE Select Overseas plans, depending on your location and preferences. (Note: TRICARE Prime Overseas is only available to ADSMs, activated National Guard and Reserve members, and their command-sponsored family members.)
These plans follow similar rules as in the U.S. but are tailored to those living overseas.
US Family Health Plan
This plan is available in certain U.S. regions. USFHP allows you to receive care through a network of nonprofit systems that give personalized care in a community-based setting.
Live in the Atlanta or Tampa areas?
Starting in January 2026, the TRICARE Prime Demo by CareSource Military & Veterans will bring more choices to eligible beneficiaries living in the Atlanta and Tampa areas. Enrollees will get care through CSMV’s network of care providers.
Benefits of enrolling include:
- If you’re a retiree, a retiree family member, or survivor, your enrollment fees are waived for the first 12 months, regardless of when you enroll with CSMV. After the first year, you’ll pay TRICARE Prime enrollment fees.
- You won’t need referrals to see network providers.
Check your eligibility and explore the benefits—but be sure to enroll by the TRICARE Open Season deadline to secure coverage beginning Jan. 1, 2026
What about dental and vision?
You may be eligible for dental or vision coverage through the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program. These plans are separate from your TRICARE health coverage.
To enroll in FEDVIP:
- You must be eligible under your beneficiary category.
- You must be enrolled in a TRICARE health plan to qualify for FEDVIP vision coverage.
Federal Benefits Open Season runs Nov. 10 through Dec. 8—note the earlier end date compared to TRICARE Open Season.
How to make changes
First, you’ll want to make sure your information is up to date. Even if you don’t plan on making changes, it’s always a good idea to log in to milConnect and verify your personal information is right for you and your family members.
With so many plans available, it’s important to take the time to evaluate which one best aligns with your health care needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Once your information is up to date, read “Get ready for TRICARE Open Season 2025: What you need to know” to learn how to make changes to your plan.
Mark your calendar
Remember, TRICARE Open Season is your chance to enroll in a TRICARE health plan or make changes to your current plan for 2026. Mark the dates—Monday, Nov. 10, through Tuesday, Dec. 9.
Courtesy Story
Defense Health Agency