TRICARE Access to Care Standards

Access to care standards set limits on how long you wait and how far you drive for appointments with TRICARE network providers.

  • The ATC standards below apply to all TRICARE plans except TRICARE For Life.

  • There are different ATC standards based on the type of care you need.


Type of Care Access to Care Standards for TRICARE Network Providers

Emergency Care

You can get emergency care at the nearest emergency roomThe hospital department that provides emergency services to patients who need immediate medical attention. or call 911 (or the Medical Assistance Number if overseas).

Immediate access

Note: If you’re enrolled in a TRICARE Prime option, be sure to call your primary care manager or regional contactor within 24 hours or the next business day. 

Urgent Care

Urgent care is care needed for conditions such as a sprain, sore throat, or fever.
 24 hours (1 day), even if you’re traveling

Routine Care

Routine (primary) care includes general office visits for the treatment of symptoms, chronic or acute illnesses and diseases, and follow-up care for ongoing medical conditions.
 Up to 1 week (7 days)

Specialty CareSpecialized medical/surgical diagnosis, treatment, or services a primary care provider isn’t qualified to provide.

Specialty care includes any care your PCM doesn’t provide for certain symptoms and conditions.

Up to 4 weeks (28 days)

Preventive Care

Preventive services are health screenings, tests, and examinations.  		Up to 4 weeks (28 days)

Note: If you need a referral for your care, your wait time starts on the date of your approved referral.

Drive Time Standards

You shouldn't have to drive more than:

  • 30 minutes from your residence to your PCM for primary care

  • 60 minutes from your residence for specialty care

If you’re an active duty service member, drive time standards don’t apply to you. 

Note: If you’re enrolled in TRICARE Prime and you move more than 30 minutes away from your PCM, you may have the option to keep your TRICARE Prime enrollment. Visit our TRICARE Prime Enrollment page to learn more.

Last Updated 8/28/2025