Comment on DOD_FRDOC_0001-DRAFT-0024

As a service member, I believe that the proposed changes to Tricare’s Continue Health Care Benefit Program Expansion can be extremely beneficial to current and former service members, but eligibility windows should be extended to maximize the opportunity for care. With the current operations service members are engaged in worldwide I believe that the windows for providing healthcare outlined on page 62274 for National Guard/Reserve Component members should be extended to at least 24 months after the date the member ceases to be entitled to care under 10U.S.C 1074(a)/ 10 U.S.C 1145. Many health issues that service members are experiencing in theatre need more time to be fully understood by the member and to be officially diagnosed. By extending an additional 6 months, service members who may be in denial about health issues or who may be having trouble transitioning to “normal” life would have a little more time to get any of the medical/dental care they need. I would also like some clarity as to how long a “specific and limited period of time” is as stated on page 62272. Also who would be considered a “certain former spouse” also as outlined on page 62272.