Part-time Soldiers can choose from a number of plans that cover both them and their immediate families at rates highly reduced compared to the general public. Soldiers that commit to Full-time opportunities within the National Guard and their immediate families receive free health care coverage.

When you join the military, you’ll have access to TRICARE, the military’s health care program. Full-time Soldiers receive TRICARE Prime and pay no out-of-pocket costs. Part-time Soldiers can take advantage of TRICARE Reserve Select, and pay low monthly premiums.

In addition to your medical care, TRICARE also offers dental, vision, pharmacy, life insurance, mental health support, and benefits for special needs individuals.

If you’re a part-time Soldier that is called up to active duty, you’ll become eligible to change to TRICARE Prime, the plan used by full-time Soldiers that provides free coverage for you and your family.

Soldiers have 90 days after leaving the National Guard to change to another health care plan if eligible, including transitional and temporary coverage plans. Retired National Guard Members and their families are eligible for many of the same plans as full-time and part-time Soldiers, though things like annual fees, premiums, and copayments will be different.