Prioritize Your Health: Coverage Options for Speech, Vision and Hearing Services
Friday, May 10, 2024
Make your speech, vision and hearing health a priority. There’s no better time to protect your senses than during Vision & Hearing Awareness Month. This May, take the time to schedule any necessary appointments for yourself and your family members. TRICARE offers coverage for a range of speech, vision and hearing services, including screenings, exams and treatments. In the TRICARE West Region, Health Net Federal Services, LLC’s (HNFS) provider network can help you get the care you need.
Speech Therapy
Speech therapy services are covered for beneficiaries who require speech therapy because of a birth defect, disease, injury, or developmental disorder. To find a provider, visit our Network Provider Directory and select the “Speech-Language Pathologist” option under “Specialty.” You also can connect to Great Speech, a network virtual speech therapy provider, from our Telehealth Options page. Great Speech offers services to kids, adults and seniors. You will need a referral or prescription for speech therapy.
Vision Screening
Your coverage for vision screenings or exams depends on your TRICARE plan and your age. In general, TRICARE covers routine eye exams as needed for active duty service members, once a year for active duty family members, and every two years for all other TRICARE Prime beneficiaries. Children between the ages of three and six can receive a well-child eye exam every two years. To find a provider, visit our Network Provider Directory and select the “Optometrist” or “Ophthalmology” option under “Specialty.” Work with your primary care manager to determine which one you may need to see. You may need a referral or pre-authorization depending on your status and TRICARE plan.
Hearing Screening
TRICARE covers diagnostic hearing evaluations as well as hearing aids for eligible beneficiaries. Early detection and treatment of hearing loss is key to maintaining overall health and well-being. To find a provider, visit HNFS’ Network Provider Directory and select the “Audiologist” option under “Specialty.” You may need a referral depending on your status and TRICARE plan.
The Defense Health Agency offers these additional tips:
