The Veterans Administration has developed resources about the health-care law specifically for veterans and their families. Here are some frequently asked questions about health-care coverage.
If I’m enrolled in a Veterans health-care program, do I meet the federal requirement for health-care coverage?
Yes. If you are enrolled in any of these programs, your health-care coverage meets the requirements of the Affordable Care Act: veterans health-care program; Civilian Health and Medical Program (CHAMPVA); spina bifida health-care program.
Can I continue to use veterans health care with other programs, like private insurance or federal and state health-care programs?
Yes. You can continue to use VA for all your health-care needs, or complement your VA care with private health insurance or coverage by other federal and state health-care programs you may qualify for, including Medicare, Medicaid and TRICARE. If you have other health insurance in addition to Medicaid, your other insurance pays first in most cases.
I am enrolled in a veterans health-care program and also use TRICARE. What does the health-care law mean for me?
The law does not change VA health benefits or your out-of-pocket costs at VA. The law also does not change your ability to continue to use VA health-care with your TRICARE coverage. Most TRICARE health plan options meet the requirements for minimum essential coverage.
I am enrolled in a VA health-care program. Can I also be enrolled in Medicaid?
Yes. Veterans who qualify can have both VA health-care program coverage and Medicaid. To find out if you and your family qualify for Medicaid, contact your state’s Medicaid office. If you live in Colorado, you can apply at http://coloradopeak.force.com.
I am enrolled in a VA health-care program. Would I be eligible for financial assistance (tax credit) to help pay for health-insurance coverage purchased through the Connect for Health Colorado Marketplace if I choose to purchase health care outside of VA?
Because VA care meets the standard for health-care coverage, you are not eligible for a tax credit to help buy insurance through the Connect for Health Colorado Marketplace. However, you still may purchase private health insurance on or off the Connect for Health Colorado Marketplace to complement your VA health-care coverage without receiving a tax credit.
How will I know if I’m eligible for a tax credit to help purchase health insurance outside of VA?
VA cannot make this determination. You must apply through Connect for Health Colorado Marketplace to find out if you can get a tax credit.
What does the health-care law mean for my family members?
Veterans’ family members who already receive health-care coverage – through their employers, TRICARE or certain VA programs – do not need to take additional steps to meet the coverage standards of the health-care law. Family members who do not have coverage that meets the requirements should consider their options. They may qualify for free or low-cost coverage through Medicaid or Child Health Plan Plus or a tax credit.
Can I cancel my VA health-care coverage?
Yes. However, acceptance for future VA health-care coverage will be based on eligibility factors at the time of application, which may result in a denial of coverage. Before canceling, we encourage you to call (877) 222-8387 or speak with your local county veteran service officer about your options.
For more information, visit www.VA.gov/ACA.
Richard Schleeter is the veterans service officer for the La Plata County Veterans Service Office. He can be reached at 759-0117 or schleeterrs@co.laplata.co.us.
For more information
The La Plata County Veterans Service Office provides information and assistance to veterans and their families. For more information, visit the county website at www.co.laplata.co.us and type “veterans services” in the search window. The Veterans Service Office and the Durango VA Clinic are located at 1970 East Third Ave. The office phone number is 759-0117. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays except holidays. Appointments are encouraged. To schedule an appointment, call 382-6150. For clinic appointments, call 247-2214.
