Vets should also get Medicare

By Sandra Teel

Steel Medicare Insurance

Why should a veteran take Part B Medicare? According to

www.va.gov, the VA recommends that, if possible, veterans should take Medicare benefits even if they have Veterans Health Care. The combination of VA Health Care and a Medicare Advantage Plan provides the most options. For example:

• Not all veterans can use the VA Health system. You must apply for benefits; they are not automatically assigned. If you’re not sure you’re eligible, apply and find out.

• Under most circumstances, emergency care at a non-VA hospital would not be covered by the VA, leaving the veteran responsible for the bill. Having a Medicare Advantage plan would cover any care outside the VA system.

• Some Medicare Advantage plans have a “give back” of up to $90 per month of the Part B premium. Humana, Cigna and Aetna offer this program, but veterans should check with their individual insurance companies for more information, as plans vary by state and county.

• Most Medicare Advantage plans offer benefits the VA doesn’t, such as a robust dental plan, podiatry and chiropractic services, and even over-the-counter drug benefits.

• Most Advantage plans have a $0 premium, which means you can get the additional coverage and benefits at no extra cost.

But what about someone who has Tricare for Life? Tricare for Life has no network and very little, if any, out-of-pocket costs. It is usually not recommended a veteran with Tricare for Life join an Advantage Plan because then he or she would be subject to staying within a plan’s network of doctors.

Sandra Teel is a licensed independent broker. She can be contacted by calling (657) 204-4224 or emailing steelmedagent@gmail. com.