How do VA Benefits work with Medicare? Today, we want to discuss how VA benefits or Tricare for life relate to being eligible for Medicare. First, let’s talk about Medicare A and B.
Medicare Parts A & B
If you are at least 65 years old and have paid into the system for at least 40 quarters, or 10 years, you are eligible for Medicare A and B.
Some individuals may be eligible for Medicare earlier if they are receiving Social Security Disability Benefits. Now, let’s discuss VA benefits. If you have served in the military and are eligible for VA medical benefits, and you are turning 65, you should know that VA and Medicare do not bill each other.
Instead, VA benefits will typically cover most of your healthcare needs, with Medicare serving as the secondary payer for any remaining expenses. It is important to understand how these two programs work together and to let your healthcare provider know if you are enrolled in both programs.
How VA & Medicare Work Together
Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits and Medicare are both federal healthcare programs that provide coverage to eligible individuals. However, they are separate programs with different eligibility requirements and benefits. In this article, we will explore how VA benefits work with Medicare. We will include how to determine if you are eligible for both programs. Additionally, how to enroll in both programs, and how VA benefits and Medicare coordinate coverage.
Eligibility for VA Benefits and Medicare
To be eligible for VA benefits, you must have served in the active military, naval, or air service and been discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable. You may also be eligible for VA benefits if you are the spouse or dependent child of a veteran.
To be eligible for Medicare, you must be at least 65 years old, or you must meet certain disability requirements. Some individuals may also be eligible for Medicare based on certain medical conditions. Conditions such as end-stage renal disease or Lou Gehrig’s disease (also known as ALS).
It is important to note that you do not need to be a veteran to be eligible for Medicare. However, if you are a veteran and you meet the eligibility requirements for both VA benefits and Medicare, you may be able to receive coverage from both programs.
Enrolling in VA Benefits and Medicare
If you are eligible for VA benefits, you can apply for coverage through the VA website. Or by contacting your local VA regional office. To enroll in Medicare, you can do so through the Social Security Administration (SSA) website. Or by speaking to an independent agent (865) 518-8022. Or by contacting your local SSA office.
If you are already enrolled in VA benefits, you may be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) when you turn 65. However, you will still need to enroll in Medicare Part B (medical insurance) if you want coverage for outpatient care and other medical services.
Coordination of Coverage
VA benefits and Medicare often work together to provide coverage for veterans and other eligible individuals. In general, VA benefits will cover most of your healthcare needs, including hospital care, medical treatment, and prescription drugs.
However, there may be some instances where Medicare can provide additional coverage, such as for certain medical equipment or home healthcare services.
If you are enrolled in both VA benefits and Medicare, the VA will usually be the primary payer. Medicare serving as the secondary payer.
This means that the VA will cover your healthcare expenses first, and Medicare will cover any remaining expenses that are not covered by the VA.
It is important to note that there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if you receive care from a non-VA facility that is not approved by the VA. Medicare may be the primary payer for your healthcare expenses. In these cases, it is important to let your healthcare provider know that you are enrolled in both VA benefits and Medicare. This way they can bill the appropriate payer first.
Conclusion
VA benefits and Medicare are separate programs that provide coverage for eligible individuals. If you are eligible for both programs, you may be able to receive coverage from both VA benefits and Medicare. It is important to understand how these programs work together. This way you can coordinate coverage and to let your healthcare provider know if you are enrolled in both programs.
I hope this article has helped clarify how VA benefits work with Medicare. If you have any additional questions or concerns, you may wish to contact the VA or Medicare directly for more information.
Any Questions About Medicare? Call (865) 518-8022 or fill out the form below
