TomJR66

Thank you James. I think my situation is very similar. I’m happy with the VA since they’ve been me single source of healthcare since 2016. Although I haven’t had any major health problems . The VA sends me reminders for appointments, mails all my prescriptions to my house. I’ve never had to pay anything. The most serious surgery I had was cataract surgery and they did an excellent job. I also have Regular Medicare or Part A and when I go to the Medicare website, under “Other Insurance” it says I have Tricare For Life. But I think I need to be enrolled for Medicare Part B for that to be true. I have a few months to decide if I want to enroll in Part B. I really don’t want to pay $170/mo plus a 30% penalty.

Thank you!

John, thank you for your input. This is exactly what I want to know. I’m in New Orleans and our VA Hospital is brand new. The staff morale is very high. They also use specialty doctors from LSU Hospital which is literally next door the the VA. I have had excellent care so far but if we move or if I catch something serious I’m not sure how they will do. I will be calling Medicare tomorrow to inquire about Part B. I want to know how limitations there are. I’m also curious about Part C and if it even applies to me.

Thanks. I’ve been dealing with the VA for 5 years as my primary health provider I haven’t had any problems. I’m actually impressed in some areas and their efficiency is better than I expected. If I move to where there’s no VA facility I can pay for Medicare Plan B plus the penalty. My family is covered through Tricare.

I’ve learned more about my situation. My VA Healthcare is free for all ER visits, routine checkups & treatment, dental, eye exams, and prescriptions. My Medicare is free but it’s Part A which only covers ER visits. Part B covers outpatient visits costs $170/month plus 30% for late enrollment plus deductibles & copays. Therefore I don’t have Medicare Part B. And without Medicare Part B I am not eligible for Tricare for Life. I guess I answered my own question but I was curious if anyone else is in the same situation and have experienced any issues.

I’m not sure if this is the correct forum for my question… I’m 100% P&T from the VA and eligible for VA Healthcare. I’m also a military retiree and I’m eligible for Tricare. I’m also eligible for Medicare. Do I have to choose just one and only one or can I keep my options open depending on my healthcare needs?