Military Spouse Medical Benefits

The military provides medical coverage to military dependents including military spouses of military members who are currently serving. Medical plans available vary depending on the status of the military member.

Eligibility

• Current military spouses of military members are entitled to medical benefits including dental care. Former and widowed spouses may also be eligible depending on the military member's time in service, the length of the marriage and the cause of the military member's death.

DEERS

• All military spouses must be enrolled in DEERS (Defense Eligibility Enrollment Reporting System) and obtain a military identification card. This ensures that dependents are eligible for all available benefits.

Medical Care

• Medical care for military spouses is offered through Tricare. The plan chosen depends on whether the spouse would like to be treated by military or civilian doctors as well as her current location. Tricare plans include Prime, Standard, Extra and Reserve Select.

Dental Care

• Dental care is offered for military dependents for a small monthly premium. It requires a separate enrollment form from medical care.

Considerations

• When a military family moves to a new duty location, it is imperative that all information be updated with DEERS and Tricare. Failure to update the information could result in a lapse in coverage.