Question:
I am just beginning my WLS journey. Does anyone out there have Tricare Standard???

I spoke with a rep at tricare and they told me with Standard I don't need a referral. I told my surgeons' office and they scheduled me for a consult. I will pay for it and file it with Tricare myself. Has anyone had any experience along these lines???? What can I expect??? Thanks, Patti    — Patwa (posted on July 31, 2003)

July 31, 2003
Hi! I've just been there and done that. I have Standard as well. I didn't need a referral. I had to pay up front for my consult, but Tricare did pay for all but about $25 of it. They paid 100% of the actual surgery fees. I had a $12.76 per day co-pay for the hospital. They DID NOT cover my psych evaluation which cost $275. Also, my surgeon required that I see a nutritionist which Tricare did not cover. I have only had very small co-pays on all my pre-op tests ($9 for x-ray, $25 for upper endoscopy). My surgeon is a TriCare contract surgeon. Your fees will vary depending on if they are contract, network, or not affiliated with TriCare. Your surgeon will let you know how much TriCare will cover after they submit for pre-authorization. Hope this helps. Good Luck!!!
   — Jennifer H.