Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services (CHAMPUS); TRICARE Program; Uniform HMO Benefit; Special Health Care Delivery Programs

This final rule establishes requirements and procedures for implementation of the TRICARE Program, the purpose of which is to implement a comprehensive managed health care delivery system composed of military medical treatment facilities and CHAMPUS. Principal components of the final rule include: establishment of a comprehensive enrollment system; creation of a triple option benefit, including a Uniform HMO Benefit required by law; a series of initiatives to coordinate care between military and civilian delivery systems, including Resource Sharing Agreements, Health Care Finders, PRIMUS and NAVCARE Clinics, and new prescription pharmacy services; and a consolidated schedule of charges, incorporating steps to reduce differences in charges between military and civilian services. This final rule also includes provisions establishing a special civilian provider program authority for active duty family members overseas. The TRICARE Program is a major reform of the MHSS that will improve services to beneficiaries while helping to contain costs.