Shutdown Impact Series: Healthcare Uncertainty for Military Families
Since the shutdown began, we’ve heard from so many of you across the military community, each sharing how uncertainty is touching your families and your healthcare. Military families across the country and around the world have shared what it means to rely on TRICARE during this time of instability. Your stories capture the balance between perseverance and pressure, revealing how health care disruptions reach far beyond the Military Health System and into everyday life.
One Navy spouse stationed overseas shared that while official updates suggest most TRICARE services would continue as normal during the shutdown, “in practice this has not been true for those of us stationed abroad.” She explained that overseas claims are being processed but can’t be reimbursed until the shutdown ends. For families who must pay out of pocket and wait for reimbursement, even brief delays cause real financial stress. “This gap between policy and practice leaves overseas service members and dependents in a uniquely vulnerable position,” she wrote.
Many families lack access to military hospitals or on-base pharmacies and rely on local providers who require payment at the time of service. “Without predictable TRICARE reimbursements, families are left making difficult choices between continuing care or taking on personal debt,” she said.
Military families are facing similar uncertainty stateside. “I’ve heard of local pharmacies not being able to access TRICARE and that’s concerning,” said Libby, an Army spouse. “If I run out and am unable to refill some of these medications, it’s dangerous for me to stop without being weaned off.” Her words capture the anxiety of families managing chronic or specialized medical needs while trying to plan around delays beyond their control.
Others are seeing the ripple effects in the Department of Veterans Affairs health system, a strain now touching countless veteran families who rely on consistent care. “We’ve seen numerous VA providers quit or be let go,” said Courtney, an Army veteran. “This month alone my husband has had four VA appointments canceled, and I’m scared how this will impact veterans’ healthcare.”
Across the community, military families are paying for unexpected hospital visits, waiting on reimbursements, and watching pharmacy supplies dwindle. These voices remind us that behind every policy delay are families doing their best to stay healthy, steady, and strong. NMFA will continue elevating their stories until stability and access to care are fully restored. We are honored that so many families have trusted NMFA with their stories, and we remain committed to sharing them with care, dignity, and purpose.
Together We’re Stronger®
By: Olivia Brinsfield, Content Manager
