Laboratory and X-Ray Services
Laboratory and x-ray services are covered benefits. If these services are performed by the office visit provider on a date different from the office visit or performed by a different provider such as an independent laboratory or radiology facility (even if performed on the same day as the related office visit) the beneficiary will owe a separate copayment. However, no copayment applies when provided as preventive services.
Cost Information
Laboratory Developed Tests
A laboratory developed test (LDT) is a diagnostic test that is designed, manufactured and used within a single laboratory. In order for an LDT to be considered for coverage certain criteria must be met. More >>
Lactation (Breastfeeding) Counseling
TRICARE covers lactation or breastfeeding counseling for up to six individual outpatient counseling sessions per birth or adoption when provided as a preventive service separate from an inpatient maternity stay, follow-up outpatient visit or well-child care visit.
An approval from Health Net Federal Services, LLC is not required.
Counseling services are not a covered benefit when provided by an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant® or Certified Lactation Counselor® unless that provider is also a TRICARE-authorized doctor, physician assistant, nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, or registered nurse.
Cost Information
Childbirth and Breastfeeding Support Demonstration
TRICARE will allow for certified labor doulas, lactation consultants and lactation counselors – currently excluded as TRICARE-authorized provider types under the TRICARE benefit – to provide reimbursable care to TRICARE beneficiaries under its Childbirth and Breastfeeding Support Demonstration.
Laser Therapy for Pseudofolliculitis Barbae (PFB)
Laser therapy for the treatment of pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB) of the face and neck is a covered benefit for active duty service members (ADSMs) only. More >>
Laser/LASIK/Refractive Corneal Surgery
Not a covered benefit, except to relieve astigmatism following a corneal transplant.
Learning Disability Services
Not a covered benefit; this includes diagnostic, evaluation, therapy, and treatment services or supplies (including special education services) for a learning disability, such as dyslexia.
Long Term Acute Care
Long-Term Acute Care (LTAC) is a limited benefit covered only in certain circumstances, such as when the beneficiary is ventilator-dependent but has the potential of breathing independently or requires complex wound care. TRICARE Prime beneficiaries (including active duty service members) require an approval from Health Net Federal Services, LLC prior to admission. TRICARE Select beneficiaries do not require an approval; however, notification of admissions and discharge dates must be submitted by the next business day following the admission and discharge.
Note: Providers can refer to our LTAC and Inpatient Rehab Facility Reimbursement page for additional information.
Cost Information
Lung Cancer Screening
Lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography is covered every year from age 50 to 80 for TRICARE beneficiaries with a 20 pack-year history of smoking who are currently smoking or have quit within the past 15 years. Screening is not covered once the beneficiary has quit smoking for 15 years or develops a health problem significantly limiting either life expectancy, or ability or willingness to undergo curative lung surgery. Beneficiaries enrolled in TRICARE Select must use network providers for the service to be covered. TRICARE Prime beneficiaries require an approved referral to use non-network providers or point-of-service costs will apply.
Luxury/convenience equipment or services
Luxury/convenience equipment or services are not a covered benefit; such as positioning wedges or pillows, flat free inserts for wheelchair tires and backpacks.
