Transitioning from military service to civilian life involves many changes, and health care coverage is a significant concern for many. The Continuous Care Benefit Program (CHCBP) serves as a vital bridge, offering temporary health coverage to former members of the U.S. military and their families as they navigate this transition. This premium-based program ensures that you have access to health benefits similar to what you were accustomed to under TRICARE, providing peace of mind during a period of significant change.
The CHCBP is designed to provide health coverage for 18 to 36 months after you lose eligibility for TRICARE. It mirrors the comprehensive coverage of TRICARE Select, including prescription medications, ensuring consistent access to healthcare services. This Continuous Care Program also fulfills the minimum essential coverage requirements of the Affordable Care Act, which is crucial as you explore your longer-term civilian health insurance options once CHCBP coverage concludes. If you believe you are eligible for this program, it’s important to act quickly and enroll within 60 days of losing your TRICARE benefits.
Who is Eligible for the Continuous Care Program?
Eligibility for the CHCBP depends on your previous TRICARE plan and the circumstances under which you lost your coverage. Specifically, if you were enrolled in one of the following TRICARE plans immediately before losing eligibility, you may qualify for the CHCBP:
- TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS)
- TRICARE Retired Reserve (TRR)
- TRICARE Young Adult
The table below outlines various scenarios and the corresponding coverage duration under the continuous care program. It’s important to note that in all cases, the service member’s separation from service must be under conditions other than adverse.
| Former Category | Scenario | Length of Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Active Duty Service Member | Released from active duty | Up to 18 months |
| Full-time National Guard Member | Separated from full-time status | Up to 18 months |
| Member covered by the Transitional Assistance Management Program (TAMP) | Loss of TAMP coverage | Up to 18 months |
| Selected Reserve member covered by TRS | Loss of TRS coverage | Up to 18 months |
| Retired Reserve member covered by 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 have access to extended coverage. It is recommended to contact Humana Military directly for detailed information regarding specific cases.
If you are preparing to deactivate from service, understanding programs like TAMP and TRICARE Reserve Select is also important, as CHCBP often follows these programs. Eligibility for CHCBP requires enrollment within 60 days of losing TAMP or within 30 days of losing TRICARE Reserve Select. Your personnel office can provide further details and assistance in navigating these benefits.
Humana Military: Your Continuous Care Program Administrator
Humana Military is the designated contractor for the CHCBP, managing enrollment, authorizations, claims processing, and customer service. For detailed information about the continuous care program and to determine your eligibility, please utilize the following resources:
- Visit the official CHCBP website for comprehensive program details.
- Contact Humana Military directly at 1-800-444-5445 to speak with a customer service representative.
Understanding your options for health care during the transition from military to civilian life is crucial. The Continuous Care Benefit Program offers a valuable resource to ensure ongoing coverage and support during this period.
Last Updated 11/21/2024
