Speech, Vision and Hearing Services: Your TRICARE Patients Have Options

Thursday, May 9, 2024

There’s no better time to help your patients understand the importance of protecting their senses than during Vision & Hearing Awareness Month. This May, take the time to encourage patients to schedule any necessary appointments. 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 get them care they need. 

Speech Therapy
Speech therapy services are covered for beneficiaries who require speech therapy because of a birth defect, disease, injury, or developmental disorder. Patients can visit our Network Provider Directory and select the “Speech-Language Pathologist” option under “Specialty.” They 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. A referral or prescription is required for speech therapy. Note, Great Speech is available for referrals under the name “Great Group Therapy.” 

Vision Screening
TRICARE beneficiaries’ coverage for vision screenings or exams depends on their TRICARE plan and their 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. Patients can visit our Network Provider Directory and select the “Optometrist” or “Ophthalmology” option under “Specialty.” A referral or pre-authorization may be needed depending on their 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. Patients can visit our Network Provider Directory and select the “Audiologist” option under “Specialty.” A referral may be required depending on their status and TRICARE plan. 

As a health care provider, you play a pivotal role in educating patients to take care of their health.