TRICARE is a health care program for military dependents and retired military overseen by the Department of Defense in cooperation with regional civilian contractors. TRICARE began in March 1995 in Washington and Oregon and has expanded into all areas of the country. TRICARE provides three options to eligible beneficiaries: TRICARE Prime, similar to a health maintenance organization; TRICARE Extra, a preferred provider option that saves money for patients; and TRICARE Standard, a fee-for-service option, which is the same as the former CHAMPUS, the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services.