PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) | TRICARE Coverage Guide | TRICARE.com

*Note: TRICARE.com is an independent reference site and is not affiliated with the Department of Defense. For official policy, visit TRICARE.mil.*

## Definition PSA stands for Prostate-Specific Antigen, a protein produced by the prostate gland that is measured via a blood test to screen for or monitor prostate cancer and other prostate-related conditions.

## What it means in practice For TRICARE beneficiaries, the PSA test is a covered clinical preventive service. Under the 2026 TRICARE guidelines, annual PSA screenings are typically covered for men aged 40 and older who are at high risk (such as those with a family history of prostate cancer or African American men) and for all men aged 50 and older. Because it is categorized as a preventive service, there is generally **no out-of-pocket cost** (no copay or cost-share) for the test itself, provided you see a network provider.

If you are a TRICARE Prime enrollee, you usually do not need a referral for your annual preventive PSA screening if you see your Primary Care Manager (PCM). For TRICARE Select enrollees, you can visit any TRICARE-authorized provider, but using a network provider ensures the $0 preventive service rate. If a PSA test is ordered for diagnostic reasons—for example, if you already have symptoms or are being monitored after a previous diagnosis—it may be subject to standard laboratory cost-shares (e.g., approximately $20–$35 for Retirees in 2026, depending on the plan).

The results of a PSA test are reported in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). While TRICARE covers the screening, it is important to discuss the benefits and risks of testing with your physician, as elevated PSA levels can sometimes be caused by non-cancerous conditions like an enlarged prostate (BPH) or inflammation (prostatitis). If your PSA level is elevated, your regional contractor (Humana Military in the East or TriWest in the West) will typically cover follow-up diagnostic procedures, such as a prostate biopsy, though these usually require a 2026 cost-share.

## Related terms * **Preventive Services:** Care received to prevent illnesses or diseases, typically covered by TRICARE at a $0 out-of-pocket cost. * **Diagnostic Test:** A medical test performed to confirm or rule out a specific condition when a patient has symptoms. * **Cost-Share:** The percentage of the total cost of a covered health care service that a beneficiary pays after the deductible is met. * **Network Provider:** A healthcare provider that has a contract with Humana Military (East) or TriWest (West) to provide care at negotiated rates. * **PCM (Primary Care Manager):** The doctor or clinic responsible for your basic healthcare and referrals under TRICARE Prime.

## Sources * TRICARE.mil - Prostate Cancer Screenings: https://tricare.mil/CoveredServices/IsItCovered/ProstateCancerScreenings * Defense Health Agency (DHA) - Preventive Services: https://health.mil/Military-Health-Topics/Health-Readiness/Preventive-Health/Clinical-Preventive-Services * TriWest Healthcare Alliance - West Region Benefits: https://www.triwest.com/en/beneficiary/