Getting out, military health issues - Marine Corps Times

Continued Health Care Benefit Program

Service members leaving the military before retirement can buy a government-sponsored insurance plan for themselves and their families to help pay medical bills until they find private-sector jobs.

The Continued Health Care Benefit Program is not a Tricare program, but it closely mirrors Tricare Standard medical insurance, with the same co-payments and deductibles. Coverage can be limited for some types of treatment, however.

The plan is offered for up to 18 months after separation to departing service members and their families, and up to 36 months to former spouses who have not remarried and adult children who lose military health care eligibility. Pre-existing illnesses and medical conditions, including pregnancy, may be covered under the plan.

Costs are $933 for an individual and $1,996 for a family for three months of coverage. Those who qualify due to separation from active duty pay a 20 percent co-payment for outpatient care; others pay 25 percent.

Enrollment must be within 60 days of separation from service.

Contact: Humana Military Healthcare Services Inc., Attn: CHCBP, P.O. Box 740072, Louisville, KY 40201; (800) 444-5445; www.humana-military.com/chcbp/main.htm.