Does TriCare Cover Weight Loss Treatment ?

Tricare coverage for weight loss treatment for obese veterans depends on the specific type of treatment.

Surgical treatment: Tricare covers surgical obesity treatment, such as gastric bypass surgery, for non-active duty veterans under specific conditions. You can find more information on the requirements for Tricare to cover bariatric surgery on their website [TRICARE bariatric surgery].

Non-surgical treatment: Tricare covers intensive, multicomponent behavioral interventions for obesity, but only if a Tricare-authorized provider, like a physician or a registered dietitian working under a physician’s supervision, delivers the services. To qualify, adults must have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or higher, and children or adolescents must have a BMI greater than the 95th percentile. This type of program typically covers 12 to 26 sessions in a year [TRICARE weight loss program].

Other weight loss services: Tricare generally doesn’t cover other weight loss services, including weight loss products (except for some prescriptions), or services like nutrition and diet counseling unless provided by a Tricare-authorized provider as part of an obesity treatment program. [TRICARE weight loss coverage]

If you are unsure about whether Tricare covers a specific weight loss treatment, you can contact your Tricare provider or visit the Tricare website for more information.