The Hampton Roads Metropolitan area probably has the highest percentage of ex-military employees in the nation.  Ex-military employees typically do not elect to enroll in employer-sponsored health plans. This lowers benefits costs for area employers, but TRICARE still has out-of-pocket costs that can sting the pocketbook of these employees.  

Is there a product that can fill the gaps in TRICARE coverage? YES!  Employers can offer an employee-paid TRICARE supplement that can be paid by the employee on a pre-tax basis.  These supplements are very affordable and can make a difference when recruiting employees in Hampton Roads. Here is just a partial list of the advantages to offering a TRICARE supplement now:

• The Feds have just raised the out-of-pocket costs for TRICARE Prime and TRICARE.
• Why should employers ignore the needs of ex-military… fills an obvious need!
• Can be offered on an Employee pay all basis for less than $70 per month typically
• Distinguishes your company as military friendly in a competitive market
• Will create employee loyalty and decreased turnover

Bottom line:  Employers with even a few ex-military employees should offer a TRICARE supplement as part of their employee benefits portfolio to help our ex-military lower their out-of-pocket medical expenses.