hypertension Part B Medicare And Va Medical Benefits

[denmarks]

I am currently receiving non military connected medical benifits for diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol through VA medical care facilities. I do not have a non VA doctor. I will turn 65 in December and qualify for medicare. I do not plan to apply for part D medicare. What do most people in my status do about part B? My coverage through the VA is much better than part B but it must be planned ahead. I would have to pay for a doctor until I can receive care through the VA in an emergency.

[oldsol423]

I am currently receiving non military connected medical benifits for diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol through VA medical care facilities. I do not have a non VA doctor. I will turn 65 in December and qualify for medicare. I do not plan to apply for part D medicare. What do most people in my status do about part B? My coverage through the VA is much better than part B but it must be planned ahead. I would have to pay for a doctor until I can receive care through the VA in an emergency.

[oldsol423]

I am in the same boat as you..... I turn 65 on Nov. 1. I am 70% PTSD, 10 % wounds, 10% hearing....... I and also IU ,P&T with no future exams... I have no other doctors except the VA.. My Social Security and VA moneys run out before the months end now. I dont know what to do about Medicare B or the others...... I dont need an extra $100.oo each month taken from my compensation and SS.. Any help would appreciated.

[john999]

I would get the part B because this gives you some choice. If you depend on just the VA you are always going to get what they are willing to give you. It is your life that is on the line. You many need to consult with a specialist quickly. It is possible to get a medicare HMO where you don't have to pay a part B premium. I would spend the extra money to have choice. How long do you have to wait for special tests now with the VA? Going through medicare you can usually get this kind of test in a matter of days and not months. You get what you pay for in health care.

A lot of people have died waiting for decent treatment or a proper diagnosis from the VA.

[Pete53]

Part B costs about 96 bucks or so and is well worth it in my opinion

[red]

I have medicare part a & b plus blue cross, blue shield which cost 145.00 a month. I am 1000% p&t. I just had a $100.000 operation at a private hospital and b. cross paid 1250.00 which was the deductable. Would the va have picked up the deductable? Do you feel I should carry the blue cross blue shield?