why doesn’t TRICARE offer various tier levels to expand the in-network options like many corporations?
1. In keeping with the industry standards, why doesn’t TRICARE offer various tier levels to expand the in-network options like many corporations?
2. Should the military allow options for personnel to purchase insurance from leading insurance companies?
3. What created the loss of CVS as an in-network pharmacy and can the relationship be repaired?
Answering the first question would require a long investment in researching the negotiation process between TRICARE and the providers and pharmacies across the United States. Research will also need to be focused on comparative plans with competitors to ensure the same, or comparable, rates are agreed upon. We would then need to focus on a cost analysis of each tier level and how the prices would effect the portion paid by the military. The research for comparability and the costs would allow the military to potentially provide a third or fourth tier to expand the options of the customer.
To begin answering this question we would first need to research why there is no opportunity for the civilian market to compete with TRICARE. We would then need to pose the question of the potential value created when the market is open. We would then need to examine the job creation needed to maintain negotiations with outside markets and the writing of new contract or amending older contracts. We would need to also analyze the time needed to perform the research. This would also include surveys to members regarding the potential changes and how they would view the changes. The survey would also need to cover questions regarding their possible switch to a new insurance that would allow more options in-network but could potentially be more expensive.
Answering this question would require dedication and a long term investment in research. This type of questions would also require relationship building and information negotiation due to the potential of many closed door conversations. These types of investigation tactics can be completed by strong leadership with the desire to invest the time and energy in the process. We will also need to investigate the processes used by CVS that may have been contributing factors to the loss of the contract. Cost analysis, like in the previous questions, is a strategy that may allow for structure changes that may allow for new negotiations to occur. We will also need to view cost comparisons and if the company can keep up with demand for products and services.
