The Guadalupe Healthcare Network (GHN) has recently finalized a significant contract amendment with TriWest Healthcare Alliance (TriWest), set to take effect on January 1, 2025. This agreement will extend healthcare access to TRICARE beneficiaries, including active-duty personnel, National Guard and Reserve members, retirees, and their eligible family members. The new arrangement signifies a major milestone for GHN, as it broadens its reach and support for military families in the region. Previously, GHN had been part of the Veteran’s CCN network since 2021, but now it is expanding its services to include the TRICARE program.

This strategic partnership between GHN, TriWest, and CHRISTUS Health Plan aims to provide comprehensive medical care to service members and their families. TriWest will assume the role of TRICARE West Region contractor starting next year, covering 26 states, including Texas. The collaboration ensures that military personnel and their dependents can access high-quality healthcare through GHN’s extensive network of hospitals and physicians.

Expanding Healthcare Services for Military Families

GHN CEO Deana Henk expressed enthusiasm about this development, highlighting the organization's commitment to serving military families. The new contract will significantly enhance access to essential medical services for TRICARE beneficiaries. By partnering with TriWest and CHRISTUS Health Plan, GHN is ensuring that these brave men and women and their families receive the care they deserve. The agreement represents years of effort and negotiation to establish a robust healthcare framework for military personnel in the region.

With this expanded access, TRICARE beneficiaries will now have the opportunity to utilize GHN’s comprehensive network of healthcare providers. This includes three major hospitals—Guadalupe Regional Medical Center, Connally Memorial Medical Center, and Otto Kaiser Memorial Hospital—as well as over 340 physicians and advanced practice providers spread across several counties. The inclusion of these facilities and practitioners in the TRICARE provider network means that military families will have greater options for receiving timely and quality medical care. Moreover, TriWest is actively integrating GHN’s providers into its directories and claims systems, which will further streamline the process for TRICARE beneficiaries seeking treatment.

Preparing for a Seamless Transition

As TriWest prepares to take over as the TRICARE West Region contractor, the transition is expected to be smooth and efficient. The new arrangement will replace Health Net Federal Services, LLC, which has been the administrator up until now. TriWest’s role will cover a vast area, encompassing 26 states, ensuring widespread coverage for TRICARE beneficiaries. The integration of GHN’s providers into the TriWest network will provide additional access points for military families seeking healthcare services.

To ensure a seamless transition, TriWest is diligently adding GHN’s providers to its directories and claims systems. This preparation will allow TRICARE beneficiaries to easily locate and connect with GHN’s healthcare professionals. Furthermore, the addition of more GHN practices over time will continue to expand the network’s reach. GHN also maintains a separate contract with CHRISTUS Health Plan for TRICARE coverage under the US Family Health Plan, offering an alternative managed care option for military families. Overall, this new agreement promises to improve healthcare accessibility and quality for service members and their loved ones in the region.