Definition
TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS) is a premium-based health plan available for eligible members of the National Guard and Reserve who are not on active duty or covered under the Transitional Assistance Management Program. It offers comprehensive healthcare coverage similar to the TRICARE Select plan, including access to a wide range of providers, outpatient, and inpatient services. TRS requires monthly premiums, an annual deductible, and cost-shares for certain services.
Key Takeaways
- TRICARE Reserve Select is a premium-based health plan available to eligible members of the National Guard and Reserve who are not on active duty or covered under the Transitional Assistance Management Program.
- This health plan offers comprehensive coverage, including medical, prescription, and mental health services, following the TRICARE Select benefit package, which requires cost-sharing with annual deductibles and copayments based on the specific service received.
- To qualify for TRICARE Reserve Select, members must maintain good standing in their respective National Guard or Reserve unit, are not eligible for Federal Employee Health Benefits, and must pay monthly premiums that vary based on individual or family coverage plans.
Importance
TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS) is an important term within the scope of VA benefits as it specifically aims to provide eligible members of the National Guard and Reserve with comprehensive health coverage.
This affordable and voluntary insurance plan is designed to deliver a premium-based health care option while these servicemembers are not on active duty.
Offering both medical and pharmacy benefits, TRS ensures reservists and their families receive essential healthcare services, thereby promoting their overall well-being and contributing to military readiness.
Ultimately, TRICARE Reserve Select serves as a crucial support system for the National Guard and Reserve community, fulfilling a vital need in sustaining the health and welfare of those who serve their country tirelessly.
Explanation
TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS) serves as an essential healthcare program primarily crafted to assist reserve component members and their families, addressing their specific needs and requirements. The fundamental purpose of this program lies in extending affordable health insurance benefits to eligible National Guard and Reserve members, thus providing them with comprehensive healthcare services when they are not called for federal active duty.
By delivering quality healthcare coverage, TRS aims to ensure that reserve members maintain good health, enabling them to serve their nation more effectively by being both physically and mentally prepared. Apart from merely functioning as an insurance plan, TRICARE Reserve Select plays a crucial role in supporting the overall well-being of military families.
This benefit offers a robust selection of healthcare services ranging from routine check-ups and preventive care to specialized treatments catered to the individual’s specific medical needs. Moreover, mental health care services are provided to help members and their families cope with the stresses that can accompany military life.
Overall, TRS is designed to minimize the financial burden on reservist families by offering cost-effective, easily accessible services, demonstrating the program’s unwavering dedication to promoting a healthier and more resilient military community.
Examples of TRICARE Reserve Select
TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS) is a premium-based health plan available to eligible members of the National Guard and Reserve. Here are three real-world examples of how TRS may apply to different individuals:
A Reservist without employer health insurance: John is a member of the National Guard who works for a small company that does not offer health insurance benefits. John can enroll in TRICARE Reserve Select to obtain affordable healthcare coverage for himself and his family, ensuring they receive the needed medical care without the burden of high out-of-pocket costs.
A transitioning active-duty service member: Melissa, an Air Force Reserve member, has recently completed her active-duty service and is transitioning back to civilian life. She has a period where she isn’t employed and not covered by any civilian health insurance. Melissa can opt for TRICARE Reserve Select to maintain continuous health coverage for herself and her dependents during this transitional phase.
A spouse with separate health insurance: Mark is a member of the Army Reserve and his wife, Laura, works at a local hospital where she has access to an employer-sponsored health insurance plan. Laura decides to maintain her hospital-based insurance, while Mark enrolls in TRICARE Reserve Select to cover his own healthcare needs. This arrangement offers the flexibility to choose the best and affordable health coverage options for both individuals.
TRICARE Reserve Select FAQ
What is TRICARE Reserve Select?
TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS) is a premium-based health plan available for qualified Selected Reserve members and their families. It offers comprehensive health coverage similar to TRICARE Standard and Extra, allowing the enrollees to see any TRICARE-authorized provider without needing a referral.
Who is eligible for TRICARE Reserve Select?
To be eligible for TRS, you must be a member of the Selected Reserve and not on active duty orders or covered under the Transitional Assistance Management Program. Additionally, you should not be eligible for or enrolled in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program. Your family members are also eligible if you, the sponsor, are enrolled in TRS.
How can I enroll in TRICARE Reserve Select?
To enroll in TRS, you need to visit the DMDC Reserve Component Purchased TRICARE Application site at dmdc.osd.mil/appj/trs/. Create an account if you don’t have one, then follow the enrollment process. After you’ve submitted your application, you must arrange the premium payments to complete your enrollment.
What services are covered by TRICARE Reserve Select?
TRS offers comprehensive health coverage, including inpatient/outpatient care, maternity care, mental/behavioral health services, prescription drug coverage, ancillary services, and preventive care. Some services might require cost-sharing or be subject to deductibles, copayments, or a catastrophic cap.
How much does TRICARE Reserve Select cost?
TRS has monthly premiums for individual and family coverage. These premiums are updated annually. For the current premium rates, you can visit the TRICARE Reserve Select costs page at tricare.mil/Costs/HealthPlanCosts/TRS.
Can I switch from TRICARE Reserve Select to another TRICARE plan?
Yes, you can switch from TRS to another TRICARE plan in specific circumstances, such as due to a change in your military status or during the TRICARE Open Season. However, keep in mind that each plan has specific eligibility criteria that you must meet to be eligible for that plan.
Related VA Benefit Terms
- Healthcare Coverage
- Selected Reserve Members
- Monthly Premiums
- TRICARE Network Providers
- Dependent Coverage
Sources for More Information
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