Getting Your Health Care Situation in Order Before Your Air Force Separation
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Making the adjustment to civilian life after your separation from the Air Force is a massive transition that requires diligent planning. With so many things to concern yourself with (finances, relocation, a new career, etc.) its easy to forget about your health insurance needs. Don't neglect the health insurance angle. It is important that you take all the necessary steps to ensure that you have adequate coverage once your service to the Air Force is over.
Preempt Any Health Concerns -- Take Advantage of Your Insurance Coverage Before SeparationIt's essential that you take care of any health concerns before your separation. Months before your separation will take place, you need to schedule an appointment to get a physical exam. During the physical, you will find out if there are any conditions that you have that will require medical treatment. By scheduling your physical early enough, you'll guarantee that any treatments needed will be covered under your current health insurance plan. It's essential that you take care of any outstanding health issues while you still have full coverage.
Separation and TRICARE Health InsuranceAfter your separation from the Air Force, you will no longer be eligible for TRICARE health insurance. Before you make your transition to civilian life, explore what your options are for replacing your health coverage. You may be eligible for temporary coverage under the Continued Health Care Benefit Program. If you've lined up new employment, the insurance offered by your new employer may actually be less expensive than the temporary coverage offered by the Continued Health Care Benefit Program. Just make sure that you come up with a plan to handle any gaps in your health insurance coverage before you depart from the Air Force.
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