Veterans, Are You Using Medicare to Your Advantage?
- Jamie Byrd
- May 12
- 3 min read
We want to begin by expressing our gratitude to you or your loved one for their service.
As a veteran, you have earned the right to outstanding healthcare benefits through the VA. However, did you know that Medicare can complement your VA coverage, providing additional flexibility and protection?
Many veterans assume they don't need Medicare because they receive their care through the VA, but combining both can help expand your options and avoid coverage gaps. Here's how to make the most of your benefits.
Understanding VA and Medicare: Two Systems, One Strategy
VA Healthcare and Medicare are separate systems; one does not replace the other. The VA encourages veterans to enroll in Medicare when they turn 65, even if they plan to continue using VA services.
Why? Having both gives you more freedom and protects you in situations where VA care may not be available.
Why You Should Enroll in Medicare Even with VA Benefits
Wider access to doctors and hospitals: Medicare allows you to receive care outside the VA system, including private doctors, specialists, and non-VA hospitals.
Emergency coverage: In a medical emergency, especially when traveling, Medicare covers you where the VA may not.
Avoid late penalties: If you delay enrolling in Medicare Part B, you could face lifetime penalties and delays in getting coverage later.
Prescription drug options: VA drug coverage is great, but having a Part D plan gives you access to local pharmacies and added convenience.
How Medicare and VA Benefits Work Together
You can use your VA benefits at VA facilities and use Medicare for non-VA providers. You don't need to choose one or the other. Instead, think of Medicare as an additional layer of coverage and security.
Breaking Down Medicare Coverage Options
When you turn 65 or qualify due to a disability, Medicare includes:
Part A (Hospital Insurance): Usually premium-free, covers hospital stays
Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, and preventive services (monthly premium required)
Part C (Medicare Advantage): An all-in-one plan from private insurers that includes Parts A & B, often plus extras like dental, vision, hearing, and sometimes Part D (prescriptions)
Part D (Prescription Drug Plan): This is optional but useful if you want access to non-VA pharmacy networks.
VA Drug Coverage vs. Medicare Part D
VA drug coverage is considered creditable, which means you are not penalized for skipping Part D. However, adding a Part D plan gives you:
Access to local or retail pharmacies
Flexibility when VA prescriptions aren't available or convenient
Peace of mind if V A access is delayed or unavailable
What Medicare Plan Should Veterans Choose?
It depends on your lifestyle and your needs.
If you use the VA often, live near a VA facility, and don't mind traveling for care? You may just need Original Medicare as a backup.
A Medicare Advantage might be a great idea if you travel frequently, want non-VA providers, or need additional benefits like vision, dental, and hearing.
Some plans have specific Patriot plans that give money back toward Medicare Part B Premium AND have the additional benefits.
Worried about hospital costs?
A Hospital Indemnity coverage plan can be added for extra protection.
Parting Thoughts
Each veteran's circumstances are distinct. You deserve to receive all the benefits you're entitled to. Like every Medicare plan, they aren't one-size-fits-all, but each offers an additional layer of protection, and with the extra benefits, you can't go wrong.
At The Bedrock Group, we specialize in helping veterans understand how Medicare fits into their healthcare picture. We will walk you through your options, whether you want to stick with VA care or explore additional coverage, at no cost.
Get your complimentary Medicare review today!
You've served your country, now let us serve you. Make sure you use Medicare to your full advantage.
To read more about The Bedrock Group, please continue below.
At The Bedrock Group, we are a Veteran and First-Responder-owned, full-service insurance agency dedicated to helping you navigate your insurance and financial needs. We proudly offer complimentary consultations and no-cost Medicare Reviews.
We are headquartered in New Albany, Indiana, and have a full-service agency in Asheville, North Carolina.
We have advisors in 48 states ready to help with a wide range of services, including:
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Have Medicare questions? Call our team at 502-200-1516 for help over the phone.
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