Why Many Veterans Need Medicare Alongside VA Benefits

Veterans can benefit significantly from having Medicare in addition to their VA (Veterans Affairs) benefits. Here are several reasons why:

1. Broader Access to Care

• VA Facility Limitations: VA benefits are primarily usable at VA facilities, which might not be conveniently located for all veterans. Medicare can be used at a wide range of non-VA facilities, giving veterans more options for their healthcare needs.

• Specialist Access: Certain specialized treatments or services might not be available through the VA system. Medicare allows veterans to seek specialized care outside the VA network.

• Access to Outside Pharmacies: Having Medicare prescription coverage oftentimes allows the Veteran to procure his/her drugs from a non-VA approved facility. This is useful when distance barriers exist or when a Veteran needs a prescription now, not a week or two down the road. This is just one option to keep you healthy.

2. Comprehensive Coverage

• Medicare Coverage: Medicare Part A covers hospital stays, while Part B covers outpatient services, and Part D covers prescription drugs. This can supplement VA benefits, especially for services that the VA might not cover fully or at all.

• Dual Coverage: Having both Medicare and VA benefits can help ensure that most, if not all, healthcare needs are covered. For instance, if a service is not covered by the VA, Medicare may cover it, and vice versa.

3. Flexibility in Choice of Providers

• Non-VA Doctors: Veterans can see any doctor who accepts Medicare, providing greater flexibility and choice, especially for those who may prefer or need to see a non-VA healthcare provider.

4. Emergency and Urgent Care

• Immediate Care Access: In emergencies, having Medicare allows veterans to receive care at the nearest hospital rather than having to travel to a VA facility, which might not always be feasible.

5. Coverage Continuity:

• Avoiding Gaps: If a veteran loses their VA benefits eligibility or faces any delays in VA care, Medicare provides a safety net to ensure continuous healthcare coverage.

• Moving Locations: Veterans who move to different regions may find that VA facilities are not as accessible. Medicare offers nationwide coverage, ensuring continuity of care regardless of location.

6. Prescription Drug Coverage

• Medicare Part D: While the VA does provide prescription drug coverage, having Medicare Part D can offer additional options and flexibility, especially for medications that might not be available through the VA formulary. While Part D plans normally have a monthly premium, adding prescription drug coverage to Medicare Part C (Advantage) in many cases do not carry a monthly premium. This is a great feature for cost conscious Veterans.

7. Financial Protection

• Cost Sharing: Combining Medicare with VA benefits can help reduce out-of-pocketexpenses for services that might have co-pays or other costs within the VA system.

• Supplemental Plans: Veterans can also consider Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance) to further reduce costs associated with Medicare-covered services.

Conclusion

For many veterans, having both VA benefits and Medicare ensures comprehensive, flexible, and accessible healthcare coverage. This dual coverage can enhance their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care, regardless of their location or specific healthcare needs.

Note: This information is for educational purposes only. Please refer to VA.gov for details. Information may change without notice. The Brann Group is not affliated with the Veterans Administration or Medicare.