TRICARE is among the most comprehensive health plans in the country. But "comprehensive" is not "complete," and the gaps in TRICARE retired coverage catch many veterans by surprise — particularly for dental, cosmetic, fertility, and elective procedures.
What TRICARE doesn't cover
Dental: TRICARE does not include dental coverage for retirees. The TRICARE Retiree Dental Program (TRDP) was replaced by the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP), which is a separate premium you pay. Even FEDVIP has annual maximums ($1,500 to $2,500) that make major dental work functionally uncovered. See the VADIP vs dental tourism comparison.
Cosmetic surgery: Excluded unless reconstructive after service-connected injury or illness.
Fertility treatments: TRICARE covers some fertility diagnostics but limits IVF coverage to active duty members with service-connected fertility conditions. Retirees are largely excluded from IVF coverage.
LASIK/PRK: Not covered for retirees (only available to active duty through military medical facilities).
Weight loss surgery: Covered with clinical criteria, but referral and approval processes can extend 6 to 12 months.
Filling the gaps
For procedures TRICARE excludes, retirees face the same options as uninsured civilians: US cash-pay or medical tourism. The difference is that veterans who qualify for FMP (service-connected conditions) have an additional reimbursement pathway for care abroad. For the full picture of veteran options in Colombia, see the veteran cosmetic surgery guide.
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Talk to Someone →Frequently asked questions
Is TRICARE accepted in Colombia?
TRICARE does not have a network in Colombia. However, the Foreign Medical Program (separate from TRICARE) can reimburse care abroad for service-connected conditions. For non-service-connected procedures, you pay out of pocket.
Can I use TRICARE for Life with Medicare abroad?
TRICARE for Life (age 65+) works as a Medicare supplement. Medicare does not cover care outside the US (with limited border-area exceptions), and TRICARE for Life does not pay where Medicare doesn't. Care abroad is out-of-pocket unless FMP applies.