Yes, US military service members do receive health insurance—and in many ways, it is among the most comprehensive healthcare coverage available in the country. Through the Department of Defense’s TRICARE program, active duty service members and their families are covered with little to no out-of-pocket costs.
But the answer isn’t quite as simple as just “yes.” To truly understand the quality and accessibility of healthcare coverage for service members, it’s important to explore how TRICARE works, what it includes, and how it compares to civilian insurance plans.
In this blog, we will break down how Tricare supports mental health and behavioral health needs, which are especially important given the unique stressors and risks military personnel face.
TRICARE is the health insurance program provided to military service members, retirees, and their families. Managed by the Defense Health Agency under the Department of Defense, TRICARE combines military hospitals and clinics with a network of civilian healthcare providers.
There are several plans under TRICARE, including TRICARE Prime, TRICARE Select, TRICARE for Life (for retirees), and TRICARE Reserve Select (for eligible members of the Reserves). Active duty service members are automatically enrolled in TRICARE Prime, which offers the highest level of coverage. It covers routine medical care, emergency services, specialist visits, surgeries, mental health services, and prescriptions.
There are usually no premiums, deductibles, or copayments for active duty members using TRICARE Prime, making it one of the most cost-effective health plans available in the United States.
Yes, spouses and dependents of service members also qualify for TRICARE, although the type of plan and potential out-of-pocket costs may vary. For example, dependents can be enrolled in TRICARE Prime or TRICARE Select.
TRICARE Select allows more flexibility in choosing providers but may come with modest enrollment fees and copays. Compared to civilian health plans, the benefits are still robust and financially accessible, which is particularly important for families who relocate frequently or live near military bases.
When comparing TRICARE to civilian health insurance plans—whether employer-sponsored or through the ACA marketplace—there are clear advantages for service members. Military insurance typically involves fewer administrative hassles, more comprehensive mental health coverage, and lower out-of-pocket expenses.
For active duty members, healthcare is essentially free, including access to specialists, surgeries, hospitalization, and behavioral health services. That’s a significant difference compared to civilian plans, which often involve high deductibles and copays, limited mental health coverage, and fragmented provider networks.
The main downside some service members report is limited provider availability in certain geographic areas, especially if they’re stationed in remote locations or outside the continental U.S.
TRICARE covers a full range of mental and behavioral health services, including outpatient therapy, psychiatric evaluation, medication management, substance use treatment, and residential treatment programs.
These services are increasingly prioritized as the military acknowledges the critical need for psychological support across the active duty and veteran population. Service members can receive counseling for PTSD, anxiety, depression, trauma, and more. Additionally, families can access family therapy and child/adolescent behavioral health services.
While stigma around seeking mental health care in the military has been a historic barrier, cultural shifts and improved confidentiality policies are making it easier to get support. And for those who need more intensive treatment, using military benefits for residential programs is a highly effective way to stabilize and recover in a safe, structured environment.
While TRICARE does cover behavioral health, the ease of access can depend on factors like location, provider availability, and whether the service member is seeking care on base or through a civilian provider. On-base clinics offer direct access to mental health professionals, while off-base providers can be accessed through referrals and the TRICARE network. Telehealth has also made a huge impact, especially for those in remote postings or who prefer the convenience and privacy of virtual therapy. That said, navigating the system can still be confusing at times, particularly when transitioning between duty stations or shifting between active duty and veteran status. Case managers and behavioral health coordinators are available on most bases to help service members and their families understand their options and make appointments. Fortunately, getting help using military insurance is made easy through these pathways.
Health insurance for National Guard and Reserve members is slightly different. When they are activated for duty, they are eligible for TRICARE Prime and receive the same comprehensive benefits as active duty members. When they are not on active duty, they can purchase coverage through TRICARE Reserve Select, a low-cost, premium-based plan.
While it does involve monthly premiums and some out-of-pocket expenses, it is generally more affordable and comprehensive than many civilian alternatives. It includes coverage for doctor visits, hospitalizations, behavioral health, and prescriptions, making it a solid choice for part-time service members who want year-round coverage.
Once a service member retires or separates from active duty, their healthcare coverage shifts from TRICARE to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare system, or in some cases, they remain eligible for TRICARE as retirees.
Veterans who meet certain service and discharge criteria can access care through the VA, which includes primary care, specialty care, mental health services, and substance use treatment. However, access to care in the VA system can vary widely based on location, facility resources, and eligibility tiers.
Many veterans report challenges with appointment wait times and provider availability, although reforms and funding increases in recent years have aimed to address these concerns. Retired military personnel who meet specific service length requirements can continue with TRICARE for Life once they become Medicare-eligible, ensuring continuity of care as they age.
While military health insurance is robust in many ways, there are a few challenges worth noting. First, the referral process can sometimes delay access to specialized care. Second, not all civilian providers accept TRICARE, which can limit options in certain areas.
Third, during transitions—such as PCS (Permanent Change of Station) moves, separation, or retirement—gaps in understanding coverage or navigating changes in eligibility can cause confusion or delays in care. Another common issue is the underutilization of behavioral health benefits due to stigma or lack of awareness.
Many service members are unaware that confidential counseling and even intensive residential care are covered benefits. Fortunately, education and outreach efforts continue to improve knowledge and reduce barriers.
To get the most from TRICARE, service members and their families should proactively learn about their plan options, know how to obtain referrals, and use available tools like the TRICARE Online portal and telehealth services.
Scheduling regular preventive care visits, maintaining documentation during transitions, and seeking help early for mental health concerns can also ensure better health outcomes. Working with base health clinics, behavioral health liaisons, or certified TRICARE navigators can simplify complex decisions and help ensure continuous, quality care.
US military service members do get provided good health insurance through TRICARE. It offers comprehensive, low-cost coverage that includes primary care, specialty services, behavioral health, and emergency care.
While there are some logistical hurdles, the scope and affordability of the benefits far exceed many civilian plans. TRICARE also supports family members, reservists, retirees, and veterans, with specific programs tailored to each population.
Mental health and behavioral health services are increasingly prioritized and well-covered, ensuring that those who serve—and those who support them—have access to quality care when they need it most. For those navigating treatment options, getting help using military insurance is made easy through coordinated care systems and evolving telehealth support.
Whether it’s a short-term outpatient need or using military benefits for residential programs, TRICARE offers a vital lifeline for service members seeking health, stability, and peace of mind.
