FALLS CHURCH, Va. -- An updated list of the TRICARE reimbursement rates is now available to beneficiaries. The changes for fiscal year 2007 include updated rates for inpatient mental health, residential treatment centers, partial hospitalization, hospice, and inpatient cost-shares for civilian hospitals.

"We take very seriously the president's initiative toward transparency in health care costs," said Army Maj. Gen. Elder Granger, deputy director of the TRICARE Management Activity. "This is just one way we make the cost of medical services available to our beneficiaries."

TRICARE reimbursement rates are aligned with Medicare rates as set by Congress. However, TRICARE does have some dispensations that may not be available to Medicare to ensure that beneficiaries continue to have health care available.

"It is important for our service members and their families to know that we will take care of them," Granger said.

Medicare premiums also change annually and now the Medicare Part B premium is linked to income. In 2007, individual incomes will trigger premium increases at $80,000, $100,000, $150,000 and $200,000. For married couples, the premium rises when the income is double those amounts. However, this change will have no effect on TRICARE costs or benefits for those who are also Medicare beneficiaries.

Beneficiaries may view the updated reimbursement rates on the TRICARE web site at www.tricare.osd.mil/tricarecost.cfm.