You may be wondering if you can receive your VA coverage with Medicare when you turn 65. The answer is yes, you can. The VA even recommends that you enroll in Medicare Parts A and B once you are eligible.
Benefits of VA Coverage
VA benefit packages are unique for each individual. All packages automatically include services, such as:
- treating illnesses and injuries
- preventing future health issues
- improving functional abilities
- enhancing your quality of life
Only some receive extra benefits, though, such as dental care. Your coverage depends on your priority group, advice of your primary care physician, and treatment for outstanding illnesses. You also meet your ACA health coverage requirements by enrolling in VA healthcare.
Benefits of Original Medicare Coverage
Original Medicare is a Medicare Plan that enrolls you in Parts A (hospital insurance) and B (medical insurance). Having this insurance may still require out-of-pocket costs to you, including premiums, deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. A premium is not required for Medicare Part A if you worked for at least 10 years and paid Medicare taxes. Part B typically covers doctor appointments, preventative care, durable medical equipment, plus other medical items and services. You are still required to pay a premium and also pay 20% of approved services.
Enrolling in both Medicare and VA benefits
The Veterans Affairs insurance program encourages those who are eligible to enroll in Medicare to do so for numerous reasons:
- There is no guarantee Congress will provide the funds necessary to provide all veterans with health coverage. Those in a lower priority group will be at risk of losing their benefits.
- Having Medicare allows you to visit non-VA doctors and hospitals, which widens your treatment options.
- If you delayed signing up for Medicare Part B because you already had VA coverage, then you will be forced to pay a penalty, which increases over time the longer you delay enrollment.
- You should also enroll in Medicare Part D, the prescription drug coverage plan of Medicare. By doing so, you can fill your prescriptions at your local pharmacy, rather than through the VA mail service.
Each time you receive any type of health care, you must choose which insurance you would like to use. VA benefits will cover treatment at a VA facility or other treatment center. In order to use VA benefits at a non-approved VA facility, you must receive prior authorization to do so. A copayment may be required as well.
These benefits apply nationwide, including the Carolinas. In order to ensure you receive the best Medicare coverage that also works alongside your VA benefits in your Carolina coverage area, call (704) 765-4689 today!
