Governor clears funding for TRICARE infants

Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter has authorized the Division of Public Health and Welfare to use up to $589 thousand of its current budget to fund the cost of vaccines for pediatric TRICARE patients until TRICARE pays those beneficiaries. TRICARE is the primary medical insurance carrier for US military personnel living in Idaho.

The authorized funding will cover TRICARE vaccinations through the end of the fiscal year, June 30, 2013. Staff from the Department of Health and Welfare will work with a group of stakeholders, including the Idaho Childhood Immunization Assessment Board, the Governor’s office, the Idaho Immunization Coalition, and federal partners to develop a long-term solution.

Otter outlined the plan in a letter to Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs Dr. Jonathan Woodson.

“We’re delighted that the governor has found a temporary solution for Idaho’s military families, and we look forward to working with TRICARE and our federal partners to ensure a successful long-term solution,” said Richard Armstrong, director of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.