In terms of coverage, how does TRICARE relate to Medicare?

TRICARE serves as a secondary payer to Medicare. This means that when a beneficiary has both TRICARE and Medicare, Medicare first processes the claim and pays according to its coverage rules. After Medicare has paid its share, TRICARE will then cover additional costs that Medicare may not fully address, which can include deductibles, copayments, or certain services not covered by Medicare.

This relationship is significant because it allows beneficiaries who qualify for both programs to maximize their health care coverage. It ensures that they have access to comprehensive services while managing out-of-pocket expenses effectively. Understanding this coordination of benefits is crucial for navigating health care systems and ensuring that beneficiaries receive the full spectrum of available support.

The other options do not accurately describe the relationship between TRICARE and Medicare, as TRICARE does not serve as a primary or tertiary payer, nor is the relationship non-existent. This reinforces the importance of recognizing how these programs interact to provide comprehensive health care coverage for eligible individuals.