TRICARE covers cancer clinical trials

TRICARE recently expanded its coverage for cancer clinical trials. This makes it possible for cancer patients with TRICARE to receive more types of treatments. Beare, who is 63 years old and cancer-free today, is a strong believer in finding a cure.

“Cancer is very real, very prevalent, but with research, there can be a cure,” she said.

TRICARE covers three types of cancer clinical trials for those who are eligible. These trials test different ways to prevent, detect and treat various cancers. Of the three phases, Phase I trials were recently added as a TRICARE benefit:

• Phase I trials: determine the highest dosage of a drug the body can handle, and the effects that drug has on the body.

• Phase II trials: study the safety and effectiveness of an intervention method on a certain type of cancer, and how that method affects the body.

• Phase III trials: compare promising new treatments to the standard treatments.

To take part in a trial, pre-authorization is needed. If you’re TRICARE-eligible, you may be able to take advantage of the cancer clinical trials. The only exception is active duty service members, who would go through their military clinic instead.

“If clinical trials are available to someone through TRICARE, I would encourage them to get information, just as they should get information on the type of cancer they have and the current treatment options,” Beare said.

For more information, or to inquire about taking part in a trial, contact a TriWest Cancer Clinical Trial Coordinator by calling 866-427-6610.