Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance: Comprehensive Coverage for Military Reservists

Greetings to all military reservists and their families! We understand that your service comes with a lot of sacrifices and challenges, including healthcare costs. That’s why we’re here to discuss Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance, a program that offers additional coverage for those enrolled in Tricare Reserve Select (TRS). In this article, we’ll provide a detailed explanation of the benefits, drawbacks, and everything in between about this program. So, keep reading to learn more about how it can help you and your family.

What is Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance?

Tricare Reserve Select (TRS) is a healthcare program for qualified members of the Selected Reserve and their families. While TRS provides comprehensive coverage, it doesn’t cover everything. That’s where Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance comes in. It’s a voluntary program that offers additional coverage for services not covered under TRS. The program is administered by private insurance companies, and it’s available to all TRS beneficiaries.

What are the Benefits of Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance?

  • 👍 Extensive Coverage: Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance covers a wide range of services, including dental, vision, and hearing care, mental health services, and chiropractic care.
  • 👍 Lower Out-of-Pocket Costs: With this program, your out-of-pocket expenses will be significantly reduced. You’ll pay lower deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance for covered services.
  • 👍 Flexibility: You can choose from different plan options depending on your needs and budget. You can also switch plans during the open enrollment period.
  • 👍 No Network Restrictions: You can see any licensed healthcare provider, whether they’re in or out of the Tricare network.
  • 👍 No Pre-existing Condition Exclusions: Unlike some private insurance plans, Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance doesn’t exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions.
  • 👍 Portable Coverage: You can keep your coverage even if you move or change jobs.
  • 👍 Easy Enrollment: You can enroll in Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance online, by phone, or by mail.
  • What are the Drawbacks of Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance?

  • 👎 Additional Cost: Enrolling in Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance means paying an extra monthly premium, which may not be affordable for some beneficiaries.
  • 👎 Limited Plan Options: While there are different plan options available, they may not meet the specific needs of some beneficiaries.
  • 👎 No Catastrophic Coverage: Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance doesn’t cover catastrophic events, such as hospital stays or surgeries that cost more than the annual catastrophic cap.
  • 👎 No Prescription Drug Coverage: This program doesn’t cover prescription drugs, which may be a significant expense for some beneficiaries.
  • 👎 Enrollment Restrictions: You can only enroll in Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance during the open enrollment period, which is usually in November and December.
  • 👎 Limited Provider Network: While you can see any licensed healthcare provider, you may pay more if they’re out of the Tricare network.
  • 👎 No Guarantee of Coverage: Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance is a private insurance program, and coverage is subject to the terms and conditions of the plan you choose.
  • What Does Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance Cover?

    Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance covers a wide range of services, including:

    Service Coverage
    Dental Care Covered
    Vision Care Covered
    Hearing Care Covered
    Mental Health Services Covered
    Chiropractic Care Covered
    Hospital Indemnity Covered
    Accident Insurance Covered
    Cancer Insurance Covered
    Disability Insurance Covered

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. Is Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance available to all TRS beneficiaries?

    Yes, Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance is available to all qualified members of the Selected Reserve and their families who are enrolled in Tricare Reserve Select.

    2. How much does Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance cost?

    The cost of Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance varies depending on the plan option you choose. The monthly premium ranges from $20 to $300.

    3. Are pre-existing conditions covered under Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance?

    Yes, Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance covers pre-existing conditions, unlike some private insurance plans.

    4. Can I enroll in Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance at any time?

    No, you can only enroll in Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance during the open enrollment period, which is usually in November and December.

    5. Can I see any healthcare provider with Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance?

    Yes, you can see any licensed healthcare provider, whether they’re in or out of the Tricare network.

    6. Does Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance cover prescription drugs?

    No, Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance doesn’t cover prescription drugs.

    7. Is Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance portable?

    Yes, you can keep your coverage even if you move or change jobs.

    8. What happens if I can’t afford the monthly premium for Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance?

    If you can’t afford the monthly premium, you may qualify for financial assistance through the Tricare Assistance Program.

    9. Can I switch plans during the year?

    No, you can only switch plans during the open enrollment period.

    10. Does Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance cover catastrophic events?

    No, this program doesn’t cover catastrophic events, such as hospital stays or surgeries that cost more than the annual catastrophic cap.

    11. Is there a waiting period for Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance?

    No, there’s no waiting period for this program. Coverage starts as soon as you enroll.

    12. Do I need to have Tricare Reserve Select to enroll in Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance?

    Yes, you must be enrolled in Tricare Reserve Select to be eligible for Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance.

    Conclusion: Take Action Now to Secure Your Healthcare Needs

    If you’re a military reservist or a family member, Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance can provide you with additional coverage and protection. While there are some drawbacks, the benefits and flexibility of the program make it a great choice for many beneficiaries. We encourage you to review your healthcare needs and consider enrolling in Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance during the open enrollment period. Don’t wait until it’s too late to secure your healthcare needs.

    Thank you for your service, and we wish you and your family good health and wellbeing.

    Disclaimer: Understand Your Benefits and Coverage

    The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or medical advice. Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance is subject to the terms and conditions of the plan you choose, and coverage may vary depending on your specific circumstances. We encourage you to review your benefits and coverage carefully and consult with a qualified professional if you have any questions or concerns.

    Related video of Tricare Reserve Select Supplemental Insurance: Comprehensive Coverage for Military Reservists