The most recent appropriations for the Department of War expired at 11:59 p.m. EST on September 30, 2025. Military personnel will continue in a normal duty status without pay until such time as a continuing resolution or appropriations are passed by Congress and signed into law. Civilian personnel not engaged in excepted activities will be placed in a non-work, non-pay status.

If you have a scheduled appointment or other business at the MTF, please verify with your provider or applicable office within the MTF to ensure there are no changes in schedule. To learn how the lapse in appropriations affects your TRICARE benefit, visit www.tricare.mil/shutdown

Health Services

Thyroid Nodule Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) Program 

Save the Thyroid, Lose the Nodules - Thyroid ablation as an Alternative to Traditional Thyroid Surgery!

The thyroid gland, a small gland below the Adams apple, plays a crucial role in various metabolic processes. Growths on the thyroid, referred to as thyroid nodules, are very common and seen in about half of the population. Most of these nodules are not cancerous but may slowly grow to cause compression on the neck causing trouble swallowing or an unsightly neck lump. Thyroid ablation, a procedure previously unavailable in the United States, was popularized in South Korea and involves the precise, targeted removal and destruction of thyroid nodules while preserving the thyroid. This new state-of-the-art treatment for thyroid nodules was recently introduced at Alexander T. Augusta Military Medical Center, Fort Belvoir, Virginia. The Head and Neck surgery department here at ATAMMC are currently the first and only Defense Health Agency and Department of Defense health care facility to offer this minimally invasive procedure. The revolutionary procedure offers new options to Active-duty military members to return to the fight sooner. We are excited to also offer this to all Tricare beneficiaries in the National Capital Region dealing with thyroid-related conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) — 

Find answers to some of your most frequently asked questions about Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) Program.

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