As the government shutdown enters its second week, concerns are growing over its impact on health care providers serving military families, particularly in San Antonio, Texas — known as “Military City USA.” Clinics and doctors in the area report they are no longer receiving payments for services rendered under TRICARE, the military’s health insurance program. The delays are a direct result of the ongoing budget impasse in Congress.
Senate Democrats have made extending Affordable Care Act subsidies a condition for any funding agreement, further complicating negotiations. Meanwhile, TRICARE reimbursements remain frozen, putting financial pressure on medical providers who serve active-duty service members, retirees, and their families. Without immediate resolution, access to care could be jeopardized for thousands of military families nationwide.
San Antonio, home to Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA), is especially vulnerable due to its large military population. JBSA includes Lackland Air Force Base, Randolph Air Force Base, and Fort Sam Houston. With tens of thousands depending on TRICARE coverage, delayed payments are already impacting the civilian clinics that provide care on a regular basis.
Dr. Britt Sims, director of Integrated Behavior Solutions, said her clinic — which serves children with developmental disorders — is nearing financial collapse. “We can last a couple of weeks on what I have personally, but now, I’m done,” she told News4SA. Dr. Gia Koehne of the Blossom Center for Children reported similar struggles, saying, “Everything is completely stalled.”
TRICARE confirmed it cannot process or pay medical claims submitted after October 1 until funding is restored. In response, the Trump administration announced it would redirect unused research funds to ensure military personnel continue receiving pay during the shutdown.
