Listening to military families: A new approach to TRICARE 

Creating a TRICARE experience that’s timely, reliable, and truly supportive for families.
doctor visit

I’ve spent over two decades in uniform and the last ten years in health care. As a sergeant major in the Marine Corps Reserve and a health care leader, I’ve seen both sides of this system. I’ve seen what happens when it’s done right. Families feel supported, and the system starts to serve the people it was built for. That’s why we established CareSource Military & Veterans, a dedicated branch of CareSource focused solely on improving care for service members, retirees, veterans, and their families. 

TRICARE beneficiaries, like all families, want care that’s timely, reliable, and responsive to their needs.  

Through the TRICARE Prime® Demo by CareSource Military & Veterans we are providing a new option for military families in the greater Atlanta and Tampa areas. Our goal is simple: listen and work with beneficiaries to build on what TRICARE already does well and find opportunities to grow together. 

I know what you might be thinking — just another demonstration. But what sets this one apart is who’s behind it: a team of veterans, spouses, and TRICARE beneficiaries who know the system firsthand and are committed to making it work for military families. We bring something different to the table — real-world managed care experience, a people-first culture. Our teams are made up of veterans, retirees, military spouses, and TRICARE beneficiaries who understand the challenges of a PCS. 

We’re making care accessible, coordinated, and personal. We’re connecting families with local providers and resources who understand military culture. We’re offering a high-touch customer service approach. And we’re investing in systems and partnerships that meet the needs of military families. 

The Defense Health Agency is taking an important step forward by testing new models and welcoming new partners. CareSource Military & Veterans is proud to be one of them.

Ted Painter

Contributor

Ted Painter is the associate vice president of market operations for CareSource Military & Veterans and a sergeant major in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve.