If you are seeking care in the civilian setting and are struggling with primary or secondary headache, TRICARE benefits offer a range of treatments and resources to help veterans effectively manage their conditions. Work with your civilian healthcare team to create a care plan including treatment personalized to fit your needs, preferences, and circumstances.

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1. Comprehensive Evaluation

TRICARE allows beneficiaries to directly access a wide range of healthcare providers, including specialists, sometimes without a primary care referral. This flexibility can expedite the evaluation process, enabling individuals to seek neurological assessments from specialists sooner.

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2. Medication Management

Both VA and TRICARE covers a variety of medications for headache attacks, including acute/abortive treatments like triptans and NSAIDs, as well as preventive medications, and injections such as nerve blocks or botulinum toxin. However, TRICARE generally offers a broader range of medications, including newer treatments like CGRP inhibitors, which may not always be accessible at all VA facilities. TRICARE's pharmacy network also allows beneficiaries to fill prescriptions at military pharmacies, civilian pharmacies, and via mail order, providing greater convenience and flexibility.

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3. Lifestyle and Behavioral Interventions

TRICARE may offer a wider array of wellness programs, including access to dietitians and fitness resources. TRICARE beneficiaries can often access specialized programs or referrals more easily, leading to interventions tailored to your needs.

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4. Physical Therapy and Alternative Therapies

TRICARE typically covers physical therapy for headache attacks, and has provisions for alternative therapies, including neuromodulation, acupuncture and chiropractic care with the option to select from a larger network of providers, ensuring easier access to care, but these may be subject to specific plan limitations.

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5. Patient Education and Support Groups

The VA often has established support groups specifically for veterans coping with chronic pain and headache attacks. TRICARE beneficiaries may need to seek these resources independently, though community support options are also available.

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6. Telehealth Services

TRICARE has expanded telehealth options, allowing beneficiaries to consult healthcare providers remotely, similar to the VA. However, the implementation and availability of telehealth services may differ, with TRICARE potentially offering more widespread access to various specialties outside of traditional clinic hours.

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7. Integrated Care Approaches

Managed by your TRICARE provider for referrals to different specialties, such as mental health and pain management, and other care team needs.