Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into TriWest Healthcare Alliance, a major contractor that manages TRICARE, the U.S. military’s healthcare program for service members, retirees, and their families. The probe comes after complaints that TriWest has wrongfully denied medical claims by incorrectly labeling some beneficiaries as having "Other Health Insurance" (OHI). Paxton emphasized in a statement that health insurance companies cannot promise coverage and then deny benefits due to errors. The investigation will look into whether TriWest’s actions violated Texas consumer protection laws. The issues began in May 2025, when TRICARE transitioned its contract from Health Net Federal Services to TriWest. Since then, beneficiaries have reported problems with their coverage, including cases where previously approved claims were overturned due to OHI errors. One such case involved Guy Shoemaker, a 65-year-old retired Army sergeant from Fort Worth, Texas. Shoemaker was diagnosed with Stage 2 throat cancer in 2021 and has required ongoing therapy to maintain his ability to speak and swallow. Due to the OHI error, he faced a lapse in coverage that worsened his condition. He described how TriWest took back tens of thousands of dollars in previously approved claims and denied payments to providers, causing significant financial and health challenges. Paxton highlighted Shoemaker's experience in his press release, noting that the veteran had struggled for nearly two years to resolve the issue with TriWest before NBC News covered his case. The attorney general stated that Shoemaker’s situation is not unique and that TriWest has acknowledged the OHI denials as a problem. In response to the media coverage, TriWest’s President and CEO, David McIntyre Jr., issued an apology to beneficiaries affected by the OHI errors, acknowledging the company’s role in the issue. In a recent email statement, TriWest said it is reviewing the information requested by Paxton’s office. The company emphasized its commitment to military families in Texas and the 146,000 healthcare providers in its network. Shoemaker, now covered by Medicare, said he appreciates the Texas investigation but believes the issue should be addressed nationally. He noted that while his coverage problems have been resolved, his health is likely to continue deteriorating. He also expressed concern for other veterans still facing similar issues, acknowledging Paxton’s efforts but calling for broader action beyond the state level. Paxton’s office has issued civil investigative demands to TriWest, seeking information and planning to interview consumers and employees. The investigation aims to determine whether the company violated the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act, which prohibits deceptive or unfair business practices. The outcome of the probe could have significant implications for TriWest and the TRICARE program.