While your rules for getting care are basically the same, there are minor differences based on which plan you're enrolled in.
Call your primary care manager (PCM) to schedule an appointment.
You must have a referral from your PCM for any care he or she can't provide.
Your PCM works with your regional contractor for the referral and authorization.
Your contractor will try to refer you to a military hospital or clinic first.
If not available, you're referred to a network provider (in your region).
Your Primary Care Manager
TRICARE Prime
May be a military hospital or clinic or a network provider.
If enrolled to a military hospital or clinic, you can book some appointments online.
TRICARE Prime Remote
May or may not have an assigned PCM depending on the network providers in your remote location.
If you don't have an assigned PCM, you can use any TRICARE-authorized providerAn authorized provider is any individual, institution/organization, or supplier that is licensed by a state, accredited by national organization, or meets other standards of the medical community, and is certified to provide benefits under TRICARE. There are two types of TRICARE-authorized providers: Network and Non-Network. DS as your PCM.
TRICARE Prime Overseas
You'll have an assigned PCM at a military hospital or clinic.
You'll get most care from your assigned PCM.
Call International SOS if you need an appointment with an overseas provider.
In Canada, you'll get most care from your PCM at a Canadian Forces Health Facility. For help finding a provider, contact the Canadian Forces Medical Group at 1-613-945-6653.