Does TRICARE Cover Physical Therapy? 2026 Guide | TRICARE.com

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## Quick answer Yes, TRICARE covers physical therapy (PT) when it is deemed medically necessary and ordered by a licensed physician or authorized provider. Coverage typically includes evaluations, therapeutic exercises, and modalities used to treat specific injuries or illnesses.

Details

TRICARE's physical therapy benefit is designed to help you regain functional movement or alleviate pain resulting from a specific medical condition or injury. It is not intended for general fitness or long-term maintenance.

### Authorization and Referrals Requirements depend on your specific plan: * **TRICARE Prime:** You generally need a referral from your Primary Care Manager (PCM). Active Duty Service Members (ADSMs) always require a referral and authorization for any specialty care, including PT. * **TRICARE Select:** You usually do not need a referral for outpatient physical therapy, but the provider must be TRICARE-authorized. Some specific services or extended treatment plans may still require prior authorization.

### Coverage Limitations TRICARE covers PT to improve, restore, or maintain function, or to minimize limitations from a disability. However, certain services are **not covered**: * General exercise programs. * Diathermy, ultrasound, and heat treatments for relaxation. * Repetitive movement or maintenance therapy after a plateau is reached. * Gym memberships or fitness equipment.

### Costs for 2026 Your out-of-pocket costs (copayments) depend on your beneficiary status and whether the provider is in-network. For **2026 rates**: * **Active Duty Service Members:** $0 for all authorized physical therapy. * **TRICARE Prime Retirees:** Expect a copayment of approximately $31–$40 per visit (varies by Group A vs. Group B status). * **TRICARE Select:** Costs usually involve a deductible and a percentage of the allowable charge (often 20%–25% for network providers).

### Regional Management As of 2026, referrals and authorizations are managed by: * **East Region:** Humana Military. * **West Region:** TriWest Healthcare Alliance.

## Who this affects * **Active Duty Service Members (ADSMs):** Full coverage with referral; priority at Military Treatment Facilities (MTFs). * **Active Duty Family Members (ADFMs):** Covered under Prime (referral required) or Select (no referral required). * **Retirees and their Families:** Covered; copayments apply based on plan type. * **National Guard and Reserve:** Covered via TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS). * **Survivors and Medically Retired:** Covered under applicable Prime or Select rules.

## Sources * **TRICARE.mil:** [Physical Therapy Coverage Details](https://www.tricare.mil/CoveredServices/IsItCovered/PhysicalTherapy) * **Humana Military (East):** [Referrals and Authorizations](https://www.humanamilitary.com/provider/authorizations) * **TriWest Healthcare Alliance (West):** [Provider Network Information](https://www.triwest.com) * **Defense Health Agency (DHA):** [TRICARE Benefit Updates](https://health.mil)