Failure to Coordinate Civilian “Urgent Care” Could Cost You Money Published Sept. 16, 2013 17th Medical Group GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- If you are a service member's family member or dependent, failing to coordinate with TRICARE when receiving civilian urgent care can cost you. Urgent care is required for medical conditions that do not threaten life, limb or eyesight, but need attention; usually within 24 hours, to prevent it from becoming a serious risk to health. For all urgent conditions, enrolled beneficiaries must schedule an appointment with their primary care manager at the 17th MDG. TRICARE will charge a point of service fee for urgent care received outside the military medical clinic without a prior approved referral. The fees range from $300 to $600 per visit and up to $1,000 annually, per family. This fee will only pertain to family members/dependents; the fee does not apply to active duty members. If active duty members are seen without an approved referral, the matter will be addressed through their chain of command. The 17th Medical Group does not submit retroactive urgent care referrals to TRICARE for authorization and payment. If the PCM is not available on that day, call the appointment line at 325-654-3149, a referral will be given to use at one of three approved urgent care centers in San Angelo. If the call is made after 4 p.m., the on-call provider will determine the necessity of an urgent care visit and provide necessary authorization. Emergency care never requires a referral. In the event of an injury or illness that threatens life, limb or eyesight, please go directly to the nearest emergency room or call 911. Contact your PCM at the 17th MDG the following day to coordinate additional, follow up care. For questions regarding this policy, please contact the TRICARE Service Center personnel at the Medical Clinic, TRICARE South Region at 1-800-444-5445, or 1st Lt. Michael Tesfay at 325-654-3088.
