Military families and retirees relying on TRICARE will see some notable updates in 2026. From changes in pharmacy networks to expanded telehealth, these adjustments aim to make your coverage more predictable—and a little easier to manage. Here’s what you should keep on your radar for the coming year.
Starting January 2026, TRICARE will lower the annual out-of-pocket maximums for active duty family members and retirees. Once these caps are reached, you won’t pay additional copays for most covered medical services for the rest of the year.
You can plan your health budget with more certainty and avoid unexpected medical expenses, especially if you have chronic conditions or high medical needs.
2. Expanded network pharmacy access
TRICARE will broaden its retail pharmacy network in many regions, adding more local and independent options while maintaining access to national chains. Mail-order prescription options will also get a speed boost with guaranteed 2-day delivery for maintenance medications.
Why it matters:
You’ll have more places to fill prescriptions close to home or on base, and if you use mail order, your medications will arrive faster.
3. Virtual care expansion and mental health access
TRICARE is expanding its telehealth program in 2026, allowing more types of visits—including specialty consults and behavioral health therapy—using secure platforms.
For you:
This means your family can access doctors, counselors, and specialists from anywhere, reducing travel time and waitlists—especially useful if you’re in a remote or overseas location.
4. Simplified appointment booking
A new unified TRICARE online portal will launch, letting you see available appointments at military and civilian providers, request prescription refills, and receive visit reminders—all from one login.
How it helps:
You save time and avoid phone tag, making it much easier to get care when and where you need it.
5. Changes in coverage for specialty services
TRICARE will require new prior authorization for certain high-cost specialty drugs and advanced imaging, similar to pilot programs in civilian insurance. However, authorizations will come with set turnaround times to prevent care delays.
What to expect:
You may need to get approval before starting some new treatments, but the process will be more predictable and digital-friendly.
6. Cost adjustments for some plans
Annual premium and copay amounts for TRICARE Select and TRICARE Reserve Select are expected to increase modestly in 2026, in line with national healthcare trends. These increases are published each fall.
Tip:
Review your plan and budget ahead of time to prepare for any changes, especially if you’re switching between active duty, reserve, or retiree status.
7. Expanded transition assistance for separating service members
TRICARE will automatically notify eligible service members of their coverage options when transitioning to civilian life and expand navigator support to help with the move to other federal programs or commercial plans.
Why it matters:
You won’t lose health insurance unexpectedly, and you’ll have more guidance on your next steps.
Prepare now, benefit later
2026’s TRICARE changes are designed for greater clarity, access, and affordability. To make the most of your coverage, log in to your TRICARE portal, double-check your contact and enrollment info, and talk to your healthcare team about any major needs coming up. With a bit of planning, your family can feel secure about health coverage all year.
