Transitioning from military service to civilian life involves numerous changes, and healthcare coverage is a significant one. The Transition Assistance Management Program (TAMP) acts as a vital bridge, offering 180 days of continued healthcare benefits after your regular TRICARE coverage ends. This program is designed to ensure a smooth transition in healthcare for you and your family without the burden of premiums.
Understanding the Transition Assistance Management Program (TAMP)
The Transition And Care Management Program, or TAMP, is specifically designed to provide a healthcare safety net for service members and their families as they leave active duty. It offers a 180-day period of healthcare eligibility immediately following the end of regular TRICARE benefits. This program recognizes the critical need for continuous medical coverage during this period of significant life change.
Who is Eligible for TAMP?
Eligibility for the transition and care management program is determined by the specific circumstances of your separation from service. You and your eligible family members may be covered under TAMP if you are:
- Involuntarily separating from active duty under honorable conditions, including receipt of a Voluntary Separation Incentive (VSI) or Voluntary Separation Pay (VSP) without retirement pay eligibility.
- A National Guard or Reserve member separating after more than 30 consecutive days of active duty for a preplanned mission or contingency operation support.
- National Guard members separating after more than 30 days of active duty under 502(f) Title 32 orders for national disaster support.
- Separating from active duty due to involuntary retention (stop-loss) or voluntary extension of duty (less than one year) for contingency operations.
- Receiving a sole survivorship discharge.
- Separating from regular active duty and becoming a member of the Selected Reserve immediately following service.
Your TAMP eligibility is officially determined and recorded by your Service branch within the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS). You can verify your TAMP status online through milConnect. For detailed information or assistance with your eligibility for this transition and care management program, reach out to your service personnel department.
TAMP Benefits and Coverage Options
Qualifying for the transition and care management program opens access to several healthcare options for you and your family during the 180-day period. Alongside military hospitals and clinics, you can utilize options such as:
Other active duty programs, including the Extended Care Health Option (ECHO), remain accessible during your TAMP coverage. It’s important to note that if your child is covered under the transition and care management program, their TRICARE coverage will conclude at the end of the 180-day TAMP period.
Important Considerations Regarding TAMP
It’s crucial to understand that TAMP eligibility does not extend to the period of terminal leave. During terminal leave, you continue to receive active duty TRICARE benefits. Furthermore, if you believe any injury or illness was incurred or worsened during active duty, promptly contact your unit for guidance on medical or dental care.
For those transitioning to the Reserve component, TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS) coverage can begin after your TAMP period concludes. If you are eligible and interested in TRS as a follow-on healthcare solution, contact your service personnel for comprehensive details.
Conclusion:
The Transition and Care Management Program offers a valuable and essential healthcare safety net during the transition from military to civilian life. Understanding your eligibility and benefits under TAMP is crucial for ensuring continuous healthcare coverage for you and your family. As you plan for long-term healthcare solutions post-TAMP, exploring options like TRICARE Reserve Select can provide ongoing peace of mind.
