Ambulatory Surgery
TRICARE covers ambulatory surgery if the surgical procedure is:
- A covered benefit, and
- Completed at a TRICARE-certified hospital-based or authorized freestanding ambulatory surgical center
Check with your regional contractor first to see if the facility is certified and to get pre-authorizationWhen your regional contractor approves your care before you go to your appointment. If you’re being referred, your provider will get you a referralWhen your primary care manager or provider sends you to another provider for care that they don’t provide. and pre-authorization at the same time. for the procedure.
What is ambulatory surgery?
Ambulatory surgery is surgery that doesn’t require an overnight hospital stay. It’s also called outpatient surgery or same-day surgery.
This list of covered services isn’t all-inclusive. TRICARE covers services that are medically necessaryTo be medically necessary means it is appropriate, reasonable, and adequate for your condition. and considered proven. Some services have special rules or limits, and some services are excluded. Learn how a benefit becomes covered.
Last Updated 9/16/2024