Military Medical Care: Questions and Answers

The primary mission of the military health system, which encompasses the Defense Department s hospitals, clinics, and medical personnel, is to maintain the health of military personnel so they can carry out their military missions, and to be prepared to deliver health care during wartime. The military health system also provides, where space is available, health care services in Department of Defense DOD medical facilities to dependents of active duty service members and to retirees and their dependents. The Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services CHAMPUS was established in 1966 legislation as the military equivalent of a health insurance plan, run by DOD, for active duty dependents, military retirees and the dependents of retirees, survivors of deceased members, and certain former spouses. CHAMPUS reimburses beneficiaries for portions of the costs of health care received from civilian providers.