How To Choose or Change Your TRICARE Primary Care Manager (West Region)

This article has information specific to beneficiaries who live the West Region. Check the map to find your region.

If you’re enrolled in a TRICARE Prime plan, you’ll choose or be assigned a primary care manager (PCM). Your PCM is responsible for providing you with all routine, non-emergency, and urgent care. It’s easy to choose or change your PCM at any time. Whether you’re new to the TRICARE West Region or just searching for a new PCM, here are some tips to help you get started.

Can I choose a military or civilian PCM?

Depending on where you live, you may have to choose a PCM at a military hospital or clinic. Health Net Federal Services, LLC (HNFS) has a PCM Selection Guide to help you find what your local military hospital or clinic requires.

How do I find providers in the TRICARE West Region?

You have several options for finding providers in your area.

1. Use TRICARE’s Find a Military Hospital and Clinic tool to search for military hospitals and clinics in your area.
2. Visit HNFS’ network directory to search for civilian PCMs. You can filter providers by gender, languages spoken, whether they accept new patients, and whether they offer telemedicine. You also can sort search results by quality score or drive time.
3. Call HNFS’ provider locator services line 24/7 at 844-866-WEST (844-866-9378).

How do I change my PCM?

You can change your PCM either online, by mail, or by phone.

• Online: Log in to Beneficiary Web Enrollment (BWE) via milConnect and use the “Change PCM” feature. Need help? Check out these step-by-step instructions.
• By mail: Complete the PCM change section of the TRICARE Prime Enrollment, Disenrollment and PCM Change Form and mail it to HNFS. The mailing address is on page 3 of the form.
• By phone: Call HNFS at 844-866-9378, Monday-Friday, 5 a.m.-9 p.m. PT.

When is my PCM change effective?

Your PCM change will be effective when HNFS processes the PCM change. It may take up to six days to confirm. Be sure to log in to BWE to review your information. You’ll receive an email or postcard about your PCM change.

Should I confirm my assigned PCM?

It’s important to confirm your PCM assignment at milConnect before seeing the new PCM. If you chose a PCM who isn’t accepting new patients or your request doesn’t meet your local military hospital or clinic’s guidelines, HNFS will need to assign you a different PCM.

Why should I get care from my PCM?

Your PCM is responsible for providing you with all routine, non-emergency, and urgent care. Getting most of your care from your PCM allows for continuity of care, facilitates referrals for specialty careSpecialized medical/surgical diagnosis, treatment, or services a primary care provider isn’t qualified to provide., and safeguards you from additional out-of-pocket costs.