MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, North Dakota —
The U.S. Department of Defense health care program, also known as TRICARE, provides medical insurance benefits to servicemembers, DOD civilians, retirees, and their families. For those unaccustomed to it, navigating the intricacies of TRICARE can be a confusing and daunting task.

Kaitlyn Leite, TRICARE liaison for the 5th Medical Group at Minot AFB, understands this all too well. In her role as TRICARE liaison, she helps Team Minot personnel navigate and understand their medical benefits to ensure they get the health care they need.

“A lot of Airmen don’t understand the full extent of their health care benefits,” said Leite. “My job is to help educate them on their benefits and assist them in finding the services they need.”

Maintaining physical and mental health ensures Team Minot personnel can safely and effectively perform their duties. Understanding and utilizing the benefits that TRICARE offers allows Team Minot to maintain a fit, ready, and resilient force.
“I’m here to serve our Airmen, keep them healthy and fit to fight”, said Leite. “It can be stressful for Airmen not knowing what services they and their families qualify for and I can help alleviate that stress for them.”

For any Team Minot personnel who are unsure about their TRICARE benefits and how to utilize them, Leite is available 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and can be reached at 701-723-5176 or through the 5th MDG appointment line at 701-723-5633. Her office is located on the third floor of the 5th MDG headquarters building in the TRICARE Operations and Patient Administration office.

“Just being able to help people is wonderful,” said Leite. “I want all of our Airmen to know that I’m here to help and they shouldn’t hesitate to reach out if they need assistance.”