I have recently retired and my new employer offers Blue Cross Blue Shield with an Health Savings Account (BCBS HSA). I have found very little info on Tricare vs putting money into an HSA and it would seem that Tricare, as a second payer, would pick up a real bad situation that has heavy financial costs, with its catastrophic cap...
Any input/thoughts on putting money into an HSA when Tricare is available as a second payer? AND, is an HSA legal (I have found on some policies: 4) Tricare does not currently offer an HSA qualified high deductible health plan. Therefore, if you are on Tricare, you cannot have an HSA. Once Tricare offers an HSA qualified high deductible health plan, and you select it, you can have an HSA)?
Thanks

Moving to Verteran's/Retirees at 1500 EST.

I have TRICAR Prima and have Multiple Myloema (Cancer)due to exposure to Agent Orange in Vietnam. My costs for radiation, drugs, Stem Cell Transplant, etc., came to over $500,000. TRICARE covered it all except for aproximately $1000 for hospital visits and co-pays. I use TRICARE as my only insurance. Why bother with another insurance coverage? But check directly with TRICARE to make sure my situation won't be different for you.