The Continued Health Care Benefit Program (CHCBP) offers a temporary health care benefit program. This premium-based plan is designed to provide you with health coverage for a limited period, ranging from 18 to 36 months, when you experience a loss of eligibility for TRICARE. Think of it as a vital bridge, smoothly transitioning you from your military health benefits to a new civilian health plan.
One of the key advantages of the CHCBP is its comprehensive coverage. It mirrors the coverage offered by TRICARE Select, ensuring you have access to a wide range of medical services, including prescription medications. Furthermore, the CHCBP meets the minimum essential coverage requirements mandated by the Affordable Care Act. It’s crucial to plan ahead and explore your healthcare options as your CHCBP coverage nears its end to ensure continuous protection.
To be eligible for the CHCBP, timely enrollment is essential. You generally have a 60-day window from the date you lose TRICARE eligibility to enroll in this care benefit program.
Who is Eligible for the CHCBP?
Eligibility for the Continued Health Care Benefit Program depends on your prior TRICARE plan and the circumstances surrounding your loss of eligibility. If you were enrolled in one of the plans listed below immediately before losing eligibility, you might qualify for CHCBP. It’s important to note that your prior plan must have been active for at least one day before your TRICARE benefits ended. The qualifying prior plans include:
- TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS)
- TRICARE Retired Reserve (TRR)
- TRICARE Young Adult
You may be eligible to purchase CHCBP under various scenarios, all requiring the service member’s separation from service to be under conditions other than adverse. The table below outlines common scenarios and the corresponding length of CHCBP coverage:
| Previous Status | Scenario | Coverage Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Active Duty Service Member | Released from active duty | Up to 18 months |
| Full-Time National Guard Member | Separation from full-time status | Up to 18 months |
| Member Covered by TAMP | Loss of TAMP coverage | Up to 18 months |
| Selected Reserve Member (TRS) | Loss of TRS coverage | Up to 18 months |
| Retired Reserve Member (TRR) | Loss of 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 specific details regarding your situation.
Are you preparing to leave active duty?
- You might be eligible for the TRICARE Assistance Management Program (TAMP) and/or TRICARE Reserve Select. CHCBP eligibility often follows these programs.
- If you are eligible to purchase CHCBP, ensure you enroll within 60 days of losing TAMP or within 30 days of losing TRICARE Reserve Select coverage.
- Consult your personnel office for comprehensive information and guidance.
Humana Military: Your CHCBP Administrator
Humana Military is the designated contractor responsible for administering the Continued Health Care Benefit Program. They handle various aspects of the program, including enrollment processing, securing authorizations, managing claims, and providing customer service support.
For detailed information about the CHCBP program, to determine if you qualify, or to begin the enrollment process, please utilize the following resources:
- Visit the official CHCBP website for comprehensive online resources.
- Contact Humana Military directly by phone at 1-800-444-5445 to speak with a customer service representative.
Last Updated: November 21, 2024
