Which 1988 legislation resulted in the creation of a new program, TRICARE, which includes options such as TRICARE Prime, TRICARE Extra, and TRICARE Standard?

The creation of TRICARE in 1988 was a significant development in military health care. This program was designed to offer comprehensive health care coverage to active duty and retired military personnel, as well as their families. The options within TRICARE, such as TRICARE Prime, TRICARE Extra, and TRICARE Standard, provide flexibility in accessing care, allowing beneficiaries to choose from different levels of service based on their needs.

The establishment of TRICARE came as part of a legislative effort to improve the health care system available to military families, enhancing their access to quality services. Each option within TRICARE caters to different health care needs and preferences, whether it is through a managed care model (TRICARE Prime), a preferred provider option (TRICARE Extra), or a more traditional option (TRICARE Standard), which allows beneficiaries to seek care from any authorized provider.

Other legislative acts mentioned, such as CHAMPUS or TEFRA, played roles in shaping health care or insurance policies but did not directly bring about the TRICARE program. Understanding this context helps clarify why the 1988 legislation specifically established TRICARE and its associated benefits.