* Preauthorization from an MTF before receiving inpatient care (other than mental health services) and maternity care from a civilian provider (December 28, 2003); and

* Prior authorization for referral to a specialty care network provider (starting next year under the new TRICARE contracts).

22 August 2003

Issue 1: What will it take to win on SBP?

MOAA asks its members and other stakeholders to turn up the "noise level" for long-overdue fixes to the military survivor benefit program (SBP). Individual members are also encouraged to call their legislators' offices on MOAA's toll-free Capitol Hill hot line (1-877-762-8762).

If it's going to happen, we have to do whatever it takes to raise the grassroots noise level on this issue and raise it significantly.

Issue 2: DoD Awards 'Next Generation' TRICARE Contracts

With the announcement, the three new contracts will consolidate care delivery in the current 11 TRICARE regions; and, the three winners will replace four "managed care support contractors" (MCSCs).

Beginning next April, the new MCSCs will begin providing services in the three new TRICARE regions. To view the new arrangement, go to http://www.tricare.osd.mil/.

TRICARE officials have developed an extensive beneficiary education program to inform TRICARE users about the changes. Information will be sent to every member household enrolled in DEERS.

For more information, go to: http://www.tricare.osd.mil/.

NEW NAVY PNS AT KU

Rich reports: "I came from Plainville, KS. High school grad of '68. Joined the Navy nuclear power program in March 1971, after two not so successful years at Fort Hays State. Was selected for the Navy Enlisted Scientific Education Program (NESEP) in '73 and graduated with a BS in Mathematics from the University of Louisville in June of '76. Was selected for pilot flight training and went into the P-3 community. My Navy tours have primarily been all flying the P-3. Additionally,

VP-30 JAX FL, first time student in the RAG

VP-4 Barbers Point HI, first squadron tour

NRD Denver, recruited for three years and flew

      the  T-34B

VPU-1 Brunswick ME (special projects)

Patrol Wing FIVE Brunswick ME

VP-23 Brunswick ME, department head tour, maintenance officer for almost two years

Navy War College, masters degree

VP-8 Brunswick ME, Command tour

US Space Command Colorado Springs CO, loved this tour

Patrol Wing ELEVEN JAX FL, was the Chief Staff Officer for three years

NAF Misawa Japan, Commanding Officer for three years, absolutely the most rewarding tour I've done

NROTC University of Kansas

"I am very much looking forward to working with Midshipmen and the community."

"Flight 2341, for noise abatement turn right 45 degrees.." "But Center, we are at 35,000 feet. How much noise can we make up here?" "Sir, have you ever heard the noise a 747 makes when it hits a 727?"