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The Murray Standard

Guided entry point

Which Healthcare System Applies to Me?

Military Healthcare (TRICARE / Department of Defense) and VA Healthcare (Veterans Health Administration) are separate systems with separate enrollment. This tool helps you decide where to start. It is educational only — it does not determine eligibility.

TRICARE and VA Healthcare are not the same healthcare system. Your eligibility, enrollment, coverage, and care options depend on your military status and circumstances.

Which Healthcare System Applies to Me?

Answer a few questions about your service and family situation. You will get a starting point, not an eligibility decision.

TRICARE and VA Healthcare are not the same healthcare system. Your eligibility, enrollment, coverage, and care options depend on your military status and circumstances.

Are you currently serving in the military?

Active-duty service in any branch of the uniformed services.

Are you National Guard or Reserve?

Coverage for Guard and Reserve members often changes with activation status.

Are you a military retiree?

Retired from the uniformed services, including a medical retirement.

Are you a military spouse or dependent?

Family coverage depends on your sponsor's status and on being listed in DEERS.

Have you separated or retired from military service?
Are you a Veteran?

VA decides who meets its definition of a Veteran for health care purposes.

Are you transitioning out of active duty?

Transitional coverage options are time-limited, so timing matters.

Keep going

Military & Veteran Healthcare hubMilitary Healthcare (TRICARE)VA HealthcareHealthcare Navigator

Educational information only — this is not an eligibility determination. Eligibility for VA health care, TRICARE, Medicare, Medicaid, and Marketplace coverage depends on your individual circumstances and official program rules, which can change. Confirm your own eligibility and coverage with the official source or the agency directly.