You can have both Medicare
and
Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits
VA coverage is basically only accessible at VA facilities.
Medicare only pays for services outside the VA facility and in most cases only those providers that accept Medicare. You also have access to Advantage Plans that function similar to typical medical plans with networks. It is possible that the VA may pick up out of pocket costs. You need to contact the VA to verify.
If you chose not to enroll in Medicare and to keep your VA coverage, in most cases you will not have coverage for facilities outside the VA health system. There are certain situations that can allow and pay.
Some choose to enroll in Medicare Part A because the premium is usually $0.00 (for some immigrants there could be a cost) but turn down Part B because of monthly premium. Enrolling in Part B provides you with the flexibility of getting health care outside the VA system. There are Medicare Advantage Plans that reimburse members to help pay and some may qualify for significantly reduced Part B premiums as well as cost-sharing help.
You can and should keep your VA health benefits for access to the many benefits not covered by Medicare.
