What is the most common choice for eligible TRICARE beneficiaries?

The most common choice for eligible TRICARE beneficiaries is TRICARE Prime, Extra, and Standard. This selection is particularly significant because it provides various options that meet different preferences and needs for healthcare coverage among military families and retirees.

TRICARE Prime offers an HMO-like model, emphasizing preventive care and a primary care manager to coordinate care, which many beneficiaries prefer for its structured approach and lower out-of-pocket costs. Meanwhile, TRICARE Extra is a preferred provider organization (PPO) option that offers flexibility for beneficiaries who want to see a wider range of providers without needing referrals. TRICARE Standard provides fee-for-service coverage, allowing beneficiaries to see any TRICARE-authorized provider without needing a primary care manager.

Given the diverse needs and preferences of TRICARE beneficiaries, having options like Prime, Extra, and Standard allows for adaptability in choosing a healthcare plan that fits individual circumstances. This is why this choice stands out among the other options, as it encompasses a broader range of coverage attractive to the majority of eligible beneficiaries.

Other options such as TRICARE Select would be a potential choice, but it is less common than the options found in the Prime, Extra, and Standard categories, which structurally cater to a wider audience