Military medical coverage is free and all-inclusive most of the time, but there are certain conditions and cases that are not entirely covered by TRICARE, like being overweight.

For those who qualify, TRICARE will cover surgical options such as gastric bypass, gastric stapling and gastroplasty. Locally, these procedures will be done within the Madigan Healthcare System or at an approved, outside doctor's office with a referral and pre-authorization. However, to qualify for surgery, the beneficiary, whether a retiree or the dependent of an active duty servicemember, must meet one of the following criteria:

• Body Mass Index of 35 with two obesity associated health conditions: hypertension, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome, obstructive sleep apnea, degenerative joint disease.

• Body mass index of 40.

• Have had an intestinal bypass or other surgery for obesity and because of complications, requires another surgery.

"The most important thing for people to consider before opting for these procedures is that this is a lifelong change, not a quick fix," said Lakeshia Love, RN, who has been a case manager for Madigan's Bariatric Pathway program for five months. The Bariatric Pathway includes a series of classes, ranging from physical fitness to nutrition, which Love said can optimize a more positive outcome following the surgery and are mandatory for patients to complete prior to surgery so they can start good habits. Routinely the classes take between 60 to 90 days.

If individuals do not qualify for the surgeries covered by TRICARE, Love said that they recommend fitness programs, whether on base or off at places like the YMCA.

They can also get an appointment at the Madigan Nutrition Clinic, with a referral from their primary doctor, or attend a class on weight management with no referral. To sign up for the adult weight management class patients can call TriCare at (800) 404-4506. For additional information on nutrition classes beneficiaries can call (253) 968-0547.

The McChord Health and Wellness Center, run by the 62nd Medical Squadron, has a complimentary staff of medical personnel, including a registered dietitian, health promotions manager and exercise physiologist who are available to all dependents and active duty servicemembers.

For classes, health screenings and more, call the Health Program Manager at (253) 982-6947.

TRICARE does not cover any nonsurgical treatment of obesity, morbid obesity, dietary control or weight control. Meaning they will not pay for your gym membership, Jenny Craig plan or Weight Watchers meals. However, fitness programs on base come complete with registered personal trainers that can help active duty and military dependents and retirees meet their goals.

Bariatric surgery represents a major and permanent change in your digestive system that requires strict adherence to a specific dietary regimen that may interfere with operational deployment for active duty servicemembers. Having already had bariatric surgery prohibits civilians from joining the military service and receiving bariatric surgery while on active duty may be grounds for separation.