Navigating the transition from military to civilian life involves many changes, and health care coverage is a significant consideration. The Continued Health Care Benefit Program (CHCBP) offers a solution, providing temporary health coverage when you lose eligibility for TRICARE. Think of it as a bridge, ensuring you have access to essential health benefits as you transition to a new civilian health plan. This premium-based program is designed to mirror the comprehensive coverage of TRICARE Select, including prescription benefits, and fulfills the minimum essential coverage requirements mandated by the Affordable Care Act. As your CHCBP coverage nears its end, remember to explore all available options to secure your ongoing health care needs.
Understanding the Continued Health Care Benefits Program
The CHCBP acts as a safety net, offering health care coverage for individuals and families who are no longer eligible for TRICARE. This program ensures continued access to health services similar to those received under TRICARE Select, which is a crucial benefit during times of transition. Enrolling in CHCBP means maintaining access to a broad network of healthcare providers and comprehensive medical services, including prescription medications. It’s important to note that CHCBP is a premium-based plan, meaning you will pay a monthly premium for this coverage. However, this cost provides the security of knowing you and your family have continuous health coverage.
Who Qualifies for CHCBP Individual Coverage?
Eligibility for the Continued Health Care Benefits Program depends on your previous TRICARE plan and the reason for your loss of eligibility. If you were enrolled in one of the following TRICARE plans immediately before losing eligibility, you may qualify for CHCBP individual coverage:
- TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS)
- TRICARE Retired Reserve (TRR)
- TRICARE Young Adult
Furthermore, specific scenarios determine eligibility for CHCBP. It’s important to note that in all qualifying situations, the service member’s separation from service must be under conditions other than adverse. The table below outlines common scenarios and the duration of coverage available:
| Former Category | Scenario | Length of Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Active Duty Service Member | Released from active duty | Up to 18 months |
| Full-time National Guard Member | Separated from full-time status | Up to 18 months |
| TAMP Covered Member | Loss of Transitional Assistance Management Program (TAMP) coverage | Up to 18 months |
| Selected Reserve member (TRS) | Loss of TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS) coverage | Up to 18 months |
| Retired Reserve member (TRR) | Loss of TRICARE Retired Reserve (TRR) coverage (before age 60) | Up to 18 months |
| Dependent spouse or child | Loss of TRICARE coverage | Up to 36 months |
| Unremarried former spouse | Loss of TRICARE coverage | Up to 36 months* |
* Unremarried former spouses may be eligible for extended coverage. Contact Humana Military for detailed information regarding your specific situation.
If you are preparing to deactivate from active duty, it’s crucial to understand your options. You might be eligible for the TRICARE Assistance Management Program (TAMP) or TRICARE Reserve Select before transitioning to CHCBP. CHCBP typically follows these programs, providing a seamless transition in coverage. To enroll in CHCBP, you must act within 60 days of losing TAMP coverage or within 30 days of losing TRICARE Reserve Select coverage. Consult your personnel office for comprehensive guidance on your specific eligibility and transition process.
Enrollment and Contact Information for CHCBP
Humana Military is the contractor managing the Continued Health Care Benefits Program. They handle enrollment, authorizations, claims processing, and customer service. To explore your eligibility for CHCBP individual coverage or to enroll in the program, you can:
- Visit the CHCBP website for detailed information.
- Contact Humana Military directly at 1-800-444-5445 to speak with a customer service representative.
It is recommended to contact Humana Military as soon as possible after losing TRICARE eligibility to ensure a smooth transition to CHCBP and avoid any gaps in your health care coverage.
Last Updated: 11/21/2024
