Members must schedule PHAs via Tricare online

  • Published
  • By By Capt. Travis Ingrodi
  • 66th Medical Group practice manager
Hanscom AFB --  A Physical Health Assessment is an annual mandatory Air Force requirement for all active-duty personnel to identify health risk factors. A medical technician completes the assessment, and then a primary care manager reviews the assessment and determines if a follow-up appointment is needed.

All PHA appointments must be booked via Tricare Online at www.tricareonline.com.

Tricare Online's appointment booking feature requires users to login to their accounts; first-time users must create an account. Individual family members must create separate accounts.

To schedule a PHA via Tricare Online:
After logging into the site, click on the 'Book Appointment' button and then select 'Preventive Health Assessment' as the visit reason. Click on the 'View Appointments' button and select an appointment that fits scheduling needs. Click the 'I'll Take It' button to book the appointment.

A typical PHA consists of a medical review, completion of a medical history questionnaire, and an appointment with a medical technician, who checks vital signs and reviews the questionnaire. Additionally, any required lab tests, immunizations or other routine requirements will be accomplished.

Those who must cancel or reschedule an appointment, must do so as early as possible -- at least 72 hours in advance.

The patient will receive a confirmation call within one to two duty days before the appointment. Patients should fast for at least 12 hours, but no more than 14 hours, before their appointment. Those who have an eyewear prescription should wear their glasses to their appointment -- not contact lenses.

Bring the following items to a PHA appointment: military identification card, immunization record, dog tags and glasses.

If no appointments are available online, contact the Physical Exams Clinic at (781) 377-4516 for assistance.

For general information regarding PHAs not pertaining to scheduling, contact Force Health Management at (781) 377-2675.