In a significant shift in healthcare delivery, Naval Hospital Bremerton is transferring nearly 700 patients on TRICARE For Life into the civilian health system due to a chronic shortage of physicians at its Internal Medicine Clinic. This clinic has operated with only one physician for over three months, a situation deemed unsustainable by hospital officials. The announcement was made during a town hall meeting, where Capt. Molly Jenkins emphasized the growing challenges faced by the hospital as it has undergone several cutbacks in recent years. Local health authorities have raised alarms about the impact of these changes on the already overstressed civilian healthcare system in Kitsap County, which has experienced closures in various services.

The hospital plans to maintain one provider for the next several months while actively seeking to hire civilian physicians, although Jenkins noted the nationwide shortage of primary care providers complicates these efforts. Patients will still have access to essential services such as pharmaceuticals and urgent care during this transition. The decision underscores the need for a robust healthcare system capable of meeting the needs of military personnel and their families. As the hospital navigates these challenges, it remains committed to supporting patients through the transition process.