Medical Services

Population Health
Referral Management Center

Location:	Building 180; Located behind Dr. Mary E. Walker Clinic
Hours:	0800 - 1600 – Monday to Friday
	Closed Sat/Sun/ Holidays and Training Holidays
Phone Number	(760) 380-7360

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Referral Management Specialist                     (760)380-7360

Referrals must come from the enrollee’s PCM and it must be medically necessary.  Elective procedures are not covered. For more information on TRICARE covered services, please visit their website here. If you have been referred to a network facility, you will receive an authorization via mail in 7 to 10 working days, if you do not call 1-888-874-9378.

*NOTICE*
Registered www.triwest.com  users can receive referral and authorization notices electronically and can make their specialty care appointment without having to wait on the mail.

If you want to see a different civilian provider than the civilian provider listed on your referral you can call TriWest at 1-888-874-9378 and the TriWest representative can change the provider.

You can also look up other providers in the TriWest Provider Directory.

For more information on authorizations for network providers, covered benefits or status on a network referral, call-1-888-874-9378 or visit the Tricare Service Center, Room 402 in the Mary Walker Clinic. 

Travel Reimbursement Frequently Asked Questions:
What is a “NMA?”
NMA is an abbreviation for non-medical attendant. If a TRICARE beneficiary requires an additional person to be present for their appointment you are a NMA. Example: If the beneficiary is going to be given medication or having a procedure done or and the referring provider states that they should not drive afterwards. If you are a non-medical attendant, accompanying a person to their appointment, you will need proof that your presence was medically necessary. A memo from the provider stating you were required to be there will serve as proof.

How long does it take for me to get my reimbursement?
Time varies; it usually takes around 7-10 days but in some cases could take up to 2 months. If you don’t receive your money after 2 months contact us or DFAS at 1-888-332-7366.

Do I have to have a checking account?
Yes. As of October 2010 we now require that you have to have your reimbursement direct deposited. This can go to either a checking or savings account.

If my spouse is going to be an in-patient for several days and I am staying with them during their hospitalization, how can I get reimbursed?
If the requesting provider provides a letter on their letterhead stating that your presence was necessary you can be reimbursed by filling out the NMA packet.

What if my appointment lasts last longer than expected and I can’t travel back the same day?
If you get a letter from your provider on their letterhead stating you were at their office past 6 p.m. you can stay the night and get your hotel reimbursed. KEEP YOUR RECEIPTS!

If I am Active Duty submitting a travel packet, who do I turn it in to?
After we have finished the paperwork on your packet you will take it to the S-1 of your unit, or whoever does DTS for your unit, and they will turn in your claim.
If your question is not listed above, you can feel free to call Rebecca at 380-3184 on Tuesdays or Thursdays. It is best if you call BEFORE you travel.