Beginning January 1, 2012, the U. S. Coast Guard (USCG) and TRICARE Regional Office South are conducting a pilot program for Active Duty Coast Guard Members and their families enrolled in TRICARE Prime or TRICARE Prime Remote within the South region.  The goal of this demonstration is to decrease emergency room costs, increase access to care and improve patient satisfaction. 
         
If you are unable to get an appointment with your Primary Care manager for acute/urgent care you may visit a TRICARE South network urgent care center up to four times for each family member per fiscal year without prior authorization.   This includes out of area and/or out of region visits. Note:  Referral requirements are still required for specialty care and inpatient authorizations.
     

Any primary healthcare visit associated with a single episode of care (minor or acute illness or injury) is covered by this demonstration.  Severe illnesses or injuries should be seen at an emergency room.   If the provider at the urgent care center asks for a follow-up visit, the follow up visit will be counted as an additional visit.