Navigating healthcare options can be complex, especially for those serving in the Army Reserve. Understanding your benefits is crucial, and the Army Reserve Health Care Program, known as TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS), offers a valuable option for eligible soldiers and their families. This guide will provide a detailed overview of the TRS program, ensuring you have the information needed to make informed decisions about your healthcare coverage.
Understanding TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS)
TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS) is a premium-based health plan specifically designed for qualified members of the Selected Reserve, including Army Reserve soldiers. It functions similarly to TRICARE Select, providing comprehensive healthcare coverage in exchange for a monthly premium. This program ensures that Army Reserve personnel have access to quality healthcare, mirroring the benefits available to active duty members, when they are not on active duty orders or covered by the Transitional Assistance Management Program. It’s important to note that the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) provides tax form IRS Form 1095-C to military members and Form 1095-B to those with TRICARE coverage, documenting minimum essential coverage, though these are not needed for filing taxes.
Eligibility for Army Reserve Soldiers
Army Reserve Soldiers in drill status are typically eligible for TRICARE Reserve Select. This eligibility is a significant benefit for reservists, allowing them to secure affordable and comprehensive health insurance. To confirm your specific eligibility, it’s recommended to contact your National Guard or Reserve Point of Contact. They can provide personalized guidance and answer any questions you may have regarding your status and qualification for TRS.
Key Benefits of TRS
TRICARE Reserve Select offers a robust suite of healthcare benefits. One of the primary advantages is its worldwide availability, ensuring coverage whether you are stateside or overseas. The program provides comprehensive health care, encompassing prescription drug coverage, a vital component for maintaining overall wellness. Beneficiaries have the flexibility to visit any TRICARE-authorized provider, and when utilizing providers within the TRICARE network, out-of-pocket costs are generally lower. While network providers may not be available overseas, qualified host nation providers are an option. Furthermore, TRS beneficiaries can utilize military treatment facilities (MTFs) on a space-available basis, offering another avenue for healthcare services. Importantly, TRS allows you to seek specialized care without needing a referral. However, it’s worth noting that some types of care might require prior authorization. In certain instances, you may need to pay for healthcare services upfront and then file for reimbursement, submitting health care insurance claims for eligible expenses. Enrollment in TRS is continuously open, meaning you can purchase coverage at any point throughout the year, not just during specific open enrollment periods.
TRICARE Reserve Select Costs and Premiums (2025)
Understanding the costs associated with TRICARE Reserve Select is essential for budgeting and financial planning. The premium rates are adjusted annually, typically effective from January 1st. Here are the premium rates effective January 1, 2025:
| TRICARE Reserve Select premium rates effective 1 January 2025 |
|---|
| Type of Coverage |
| Member Only |
| Member and Family |
In addition to premiums, there is an annual outpatient deductible that must be met each calendar year (January 1 – December 31) before cost-sharing begins. For sponsors ranked E4 and below, the deductible is $64 per individual and $128 per family. For sponsors ranked E5 and above, it is $193 per individual and $386 per family. Cost shares also apply, requiring you to pay a portion of the costs based on the type of care and whether you see a network or non-network provider. Non-network providers have the option to charge up to 15% above the TRICARE allowable charge, for which you would also be responsible. For a detailed breakdown of TRICARE costs, including copayments and payment options, you can visit the TRICARE website to compare costs and explore overseas cost shares for services received outside the U.S.
Accessing More Information and Enrollment
For more comprehensive information about TRICARE Reserve Select or to enroll in the program, several resources are available. The official TRICARE website provides detailed information and enrollment portals. MilConnect serves as another valuable resource for managing your benefits and accessing related information. For specific details tailored to Guard and Reserve service members, TRICARE offers dedicated information pages. Additionally, understanding DEERS, the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System, is crucial for managing family member enrollment and eligibility. The TRICARE Choices for National Guard and Reserve Handbook offers an in-depth guide to navigate your healthcare options. By utilizing these resources, Army Reserve soldiers can fully understand and leverage their healthcare benefits through the Army Reserve Health Care Program.
