For many years, I believed that the healthcare benefits offered to U.S. veterans were limited to those who made the military a career and completed 20+ years with a branch of military service. In a casual conversation one day, I learned that a friend was getting his medications at a very low cost from the VA Healthcare system. I knew he had only spent several years on active duty and then wondered if he had a service connected disability. Upon inquiry, I learned that he didn’t. He had my attention.
I did some research and found that veterans who had served on active duty were encouraged to apply for enrollment with the Department of Veterans Affairs to determine if they are eligible for medical benefits. Those who have served since 1998 are covered. But I also learned that there are extenuating circumstances from the Vietnam era related to Agent Orange. Eligibility is not that clear-cut. That is why the VA encourages vets to apply for enrollment. I soon learned that the VA provides a Medical Benefits Package to all enrolled Veterans. This comprehensive plan provides a full range of preventive outpatient and inpatient services within the VA healthcare system. Also, once you enroll in the VA’s healthcare system, you can be seen at any VA facility across the country. The closest VA Outpatient facility to Sun City, Huntley, is at 450 W. Dundee Ave in Elgin. The closest VA Hospital is Edward Hines Jr. Hospital in Hines, IL. Once enrolled with the VA healthcare system, you are able to obtain your medications through the mail. Depending on your level of income, a minor co-pay may apply for medications. I applied and was successfully enrolled. I found the Outpatient clinic and Hines Hospital doctors and staff to be excellent. If you have had active military service and aren’t availing yourself of these benefits, give the Department of Veterans Affairs a call at 1-877-222-VETS, or apply online.
You may be surprised to learn you are eligible for VA Healthcare.
Next issue: Part 1 of a Series on Tax Planning Tips for Seniors. I need your tax planning questions to address in the series. Send me your tax planning questions by mail to: The Frugal Forum, P.O. Box 693, Huntley, IL 60142 or by Email to: thefrugalforum@gmail.com.
