3.  Can Medicare beneficiaries have both TRICARE and a Part D plan?
Medicare beneficiaries can have both a Part D plan and coverage from TRICARE, however, because TRICARE is creditable and is generally considered comprehensive coverage, it is not necessary for an individual to have both. Low-income Medicare beneficiaries who qualify for the low-income subsidy may experience lower out-of-pocket costs through a Part D plan. 

For those who choose to have both types of coverage, the Part D plan is considered primary coverage, and TRICARE, secondary. TRICARE would pay some of the beneficiary's Part D costs for prescription drugs (including any annual deductible as well as co-payments or coinsurance during the initial coverage period, subject to TRICARE rules). During the Part D doughnut hole, TRICARE would become the primary payer for prescription costs. This means that enrollees would pay standard TRICARE co-payments. All beneficiary out-of-pocket spending counts towards the TRICARE spending cap of $3000. For more information about TRICARE and Medicare prescription drug coverage, see CMS' TRICARE Fact Sheet.

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