Tricare Experiences
Gene Gerth in Korea, Retired Military Vet

Before entering into the specifics of my Tricare experiences, some background information is necessary. As an overseas Tricare user, I am required to process all claims and other correspondence through Wisconsin based insurance (WPS), in Madison, Wisconsin.

Use of Military Medical Facilities

Prior to my complete retirement and while I was still a government employee, military retirees were authorized to use military medical facilities at their location on a standby basis. This was a command decision at that time. I did use the military medical facilities during that timeframe for eye cataract surgery, a colon examination and a couple of other procedures. I did however, have to register with the local military medical facility to be eligible for these services. This availability may exist at other overseas military installations and I would suggest for those retirees living overseas near a military installation to check with that installation and find out if these services are available for them. To the best of my knowledge these services are still available in Korea.

Outpatient Claim

The first and most ordinary claim is concerned with outpatient coverage. Upon visiting the Tricare representative at my closest military installation, I was informed that what is called a Medical Receipt should be included with all claims. If there are any military retirees or other Tricare veterans who have access to a military base, they should check to see if there is a Tricare representative located there. They will be located at the medical facility on the base and if you need assistance filing your claim, they can be very helpful.