It is important to know how Medicare and VA benefits interact with each other and to maximize healthcare coverage. Veterans are recommended to enroll in Medicare when they are eligible, even if they have VA benefits. This is important because it will allow them coverage and care for outside VA facilities. Medicare and VA benefits do not synchronize with each other (VA covers VA facilities and Medicare provides coverage outside VA). Not all veterans receive VA benefits; they are only eligible based on their service, and they must enroll in the VA benefits. It is important for the veteran to apply for VA coverage if they think they are eligible.
Veterans can choose to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, which may offer extra coverage not covered by VA benefits, but still cannot be used at a VA facility. They will need to consider preventive measures and whether they will need to seek any care outside of the VA, such as dental and vision. If a veteran is on Tricare, they must sign up for Medicare, both Part A and Part B, to continue Tricare benefits. This is important for guaranteeing coverage. Veterans may want to consider Medicare Part D for prescription coverage for medicines that may not be offered through VA benefits. VA benefits are considered creditable coverage for Part D, and if the Veteran has had VA benefits since turning 65 and decides to enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan or a Prescription drug plan, they will not face a late enrollment penalty.
Medicare Part A typically does not require a premium; Part B does have a standard premium that may vary based on income. It is wise that they enroll in Medicare at the correct time to avoid late enrollment penalties and to make sure they have access to desirable healthcare services. The VA benefits are not considered creditable coverage for Part B. If a veteran decides not to enroll when they should for Medicare Part B and later decides to do so, they will face a late enrollment penalty.
It is important to know how each one works and its coverage. Enrolling in both can provide more wide-ranging coverage and a safety net for their medical coverage if they need to receive care out of the VA.
Thank you to our Veterans for your sacrifice and service!
- https://tricare.mil/LifeEvents/Medicare/Retiree_and_Family
- https://www.ignitewithhumana.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Humana-Veterans_One-Pager_FAQs_Hi-Res.pdf
- https://www.va.gov/resources/va-health-care-and-other-insurance
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