VA Health Care vs. Medicare Coverage
If you qualify for VA health care, your benefits package is tailored to your needs. It will provide services such as:
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Improvements in function abilities
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Improvements in quality of life
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Treatment for injuries and illnesses
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The avoidance of future health problems
The additional benefits, such as medicare dental care, will not be available to all Veterans. This is determined by the level of priority to which you are assigned.
If you are a veteran who is no longer covered by group insurance and is eligible for Medicare, Medicare Services strongly advises you to enroll in Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B. This is, of course, optional coverage, but it's worth noting that the VA divides participants into priority levels. Always remember that you can never have too much coverage, and there's a chance you'll lose your VA benefits. When you have Medicare, you are covered in cases where you are unable to see a non-VA practitioner. Please keep in mind that you must enroll as soon as you are eligible to avoid late enrollment fines (in your enrollment period).
Also Read: Are Veterans Required to Enroll in Medicare?
When it comes to drug coverage, there is no medicare late enrollment penalty if you enroll in a Medicare Part D plan within two months of your current coverage ending. If you choose to enroll in both Medicare Part D and VA medication coverage, you can choose to use one or the other. This is advantageous for those who do not wish to use the VA's mail-order service, as well as those who require prescriptions that the VA does not cover. If you have a low income, you may be eligible for Medicare Part D's Extra Help Program, which provides low-cost drug coverage.
The table below compares the advantage and disadvantages of Medicare vs. VA Health Care coverage.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of VA Health Care and Medicare Coverage
| Coverage Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Medicare | Medicare has greater flexibility considering covered health care facilities vs. VA providers | Veterans have to pay for Medicare and not VA coverage |
| VA | VA is the cheaper route if you are trying to save money | You will be penalized if you do not enroll in Medicare |
One of the best things about both of these is that you don't have to choose between them. You have the choice of having both! Although it is more expensive, it is well worth it in some circumstances.
Medicare Services can assist you in determining what level of coverage is required for your individual scenario. Our team of advisors is ready to join arms with you and walk you through the full procedure. The best part is that our assistance is entirely free!
Please contact us at (844) 731-6614
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