Access to Care Standards

Definition of Access to Care (ATC)

Goals of Access to Care Campaign

The goal of access management is to implement and sustain a systematic, proactive, and responsive MTF access plan for all clinics and services that meets or exceeds the ATC standards.

Objectives of the Military Health System Access to Care Campaign

Make the appointment system customer friendly
Provide access to health care services within access standards
Resolve the patient's request for health care services within their first contact/telephone call
Resolve patient issues with as few visits/interactions as possible
Strive for the highest in patient satisfaction
Open schedules on time and with sufficient supply

Acute appointments are made within 24 hours

Definition: An urgent (acute) care appointment is reserved for non-emergent, urgent care that is typically delivered by an MTF or network Primary Care Manager (PCM). Acute care services for Active Duty and TRICARE Prime enrollees shall be scheduled no greater than 24 hours from the time the need for this appointment is determined.

Routine appointments are made within 7 calendar days

Definition: A routine care appointment is designated for patients who require a visit with their PCM for a new healthcare problem that is not considered urgent. Routine care for Active Duty and TRICARE Prime enrollees shall be scheduled within seven calendar days from the time the need for this appointment is determined.

Wellness appointments are made within 28 calendar days

Definition: A wellness care appointment is designated for patients who require a visit for a wellness/or preventive health concern or with their PCM for an initial visit. This wellness care for Active Duty and TRICARE Prime enrollees shall be scheduled within 28 calendar days from the time the need for this appointment is determined.

Specialty appointments are made within 28 calendar days

Definition: A specialty care appointment is designated for patients who require an initial consult, referral, or initial self-referral. Specialty care for Active Duty and TRICARE Prime enrollees shall be scheduled within 28 calendar days from the time the need for this appointment is determined. A specialty care appointment also includes procedures designated for patients in need of medical procedures.

icon, acrobat ATC Charts

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