Differences in beneficiary assessments of health care between TRICARE Prime and TRICARE Prime Remote

Objectives: We examined differences in health care ratings and reported health care experiences for active duty uniform services personnel using health care plans other than military treatment facilities. Methods: We used a cross-sectional mail survey of a stratified sample of 3,871 beneficiaries enrolled in TRICARE Prime (TP) and TRICARE Prime Remote (TPR). The adjusted plan mean composite and global ratings were compared between TP and TPR participants. Results: There were few significant differences between the two groups. Patient satisfaction was higher when patients chose their providers (TPR), and use of some preventive services was higher in managed-care plans (TP). Respondents in metropolitan locations differed significantly from those in nonmetropolitan locations in ratings of plans, quality of health care received, and access to services. Conclusions: The military health system is achieving some success in delivering uniform benefits but faces challenges in delivering high-quality uniform benefits in rural communities.