AFSPA Talks

AFSPA Talks Japan Pilot Program

AFSPA Season 16 Episode 2

Two years ago, access to on-base care for Department of Defense civilians changed, which had a particular impact on those living and working in Japan. Since then, DoD leaders have been working on a program to support the needs of civilian employees in Japan. That program launched at the beginning of this year, and we wanted to know more about how it came about, how it works, and who it helps. 

Joining us to walk us through the Japan Health Insurance Enhancement Pilot are:

Susan Orsega, Deputy Assitant Secretary of Defense for Health Services Policy and Oversight, Department of Defense 

Danielle McCammon, Chief, TRICARE Overseas Program 

DoD Civilian employees in Japan can reach the International SOS Government Services call center in the following ways: 

  • Call toll-free in Japan: 0120-303280
  • Call from outside Japan: +81 33560 8185 (not toll-free) 

International callers can request a "callback" by sending an email to an email to avoid additional charges. For routine, non-urgent requests, it is best to email DODHealthcareSupport@internationalsos.com. 

  • Please include your full name, insurance details, and phone number in the email. 

Join us on January 30 at 11 am ET for AFSPA Live! You can submit your questions in advance here or join us live on YouTube, Facebook, or LinkedIn. 

See our other upcoming events here: www.afspa.org/events

Register for the AFSPA Member Annual Meeting here.

Links referenced in today's episode:

January 2023 episode - AFSPA Talks Care in Japan 

October 7, 2024, Press Release from DoD on Pilot: https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3927934/dod-announces-health-care-supplement-program-pilot-for-dod-civilian-employees-i/

January 16, 2025 Article from U.S. Forces Japan on Pilot Program: https://www.usfj.mil/Media/Press-Releases/Article-View/Article/4031045/dod-launches-247-health-care-support-for-dod-civilian-employees-in-japan/

AFSPA Overseas Care Details: https://www.afspa.org/fsbp/overseas/

Searchable List of AFSPA Overseas Direct Billing Providers: https://www.afspa.org/fsbp/overseas/overseas-partners/