Family members are vital for veterans. They provide a strong support network. Veterans have their own health coverage. But can veterans get health insurance for family? That’s what you’ll know in this article.
So, keep reading to find out more.
Can Veterans Get Health Insurance for Family?
If you’re a veteran enrolled in a VA health care program, you might have dependents that aren’t eligible for health coverage. The good thing is that they can still obtain coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace.
The main benefit of obtaining health insurance through the Marketplace is that they can obtain health plans at a lower cost. Or they can choose to pick a plan that has high premiums with lower out-of-pocket costs. They may also be eligible for Medicaid, which offers low-cost or free coverage.
Another option is to obtain private health insurance for a family.
Related: What is the Best Health Insurance for a Young Family?
What Medical Benefits Can Veterans Obtain?
Veterans and their loved ones may receive health benefits and medical assistance. The benefits would include dental and mental health.
Health care benefits for the family of veterans are comprehensive. The Veteran Affairs share the cost of healthcare services and supplies with lawful beneficiaries.
TRICARE
It’s a comprehensive health insurance program for veterans. This health plan provides proper coverage to former military members and their families. There are several plans under TRICARE. Each one offers a different range of benefits.
CHAMPVA
This is a health care program that is similar to TRICARE. The Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs is offed by the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). However, to qualify for this program, you must not be eligible for TRICARE.
Medicare
It’s not only designed for veterans. Medicare is a healthcare program where veterans can buy health insurance. It’s available for people age 65 or older. The treatments and services covered will depend on the plan. However, the benefits are wide. They may cover advance care planning, home health care services, and diagnostic laboratory tests, among others.
The monthly premium cost depends on the plan and the benefits.
Related: What is the Cheapest HMO in the Philippines?
On the other hand, if you choose to get employed, you can opt to buy private health insurance for a family. Your employers will offer you health insurance as part of your employment package. However, your family may not be covered. Thus, you may still need to obtain a health plan for your spouse and kids.
Do You Need Private Insurance if You Have VA Benefits?
There’s no need to obtain private health insurance if you have VA benefits. However, some veterans want more coverage for themselves and their family members.
The Importance of Health Insurance for Veterans and Their families
You can’t predict what’s coming tomorrow. You won’t know if you get sick or one of your family members gets hurt.
The most definite here is that most people require medical care at some point. With health coverage, medical costs are covered.
Most health insurance plans cover those essential health benefits that are vital to maintaining health. These benefits will also include treatment for certain illnesses and accidents.
With the right health insurance, you can protect yourself and your family from unexpected medical costs. As mentioned, a medical emergency can happen at any time. You may get hurt when you go out of your house. With the right health insurance, you have a cushion that protects you from financial struggles when an emergency arises.
In case you meet a serious accident, your health insurance will provide financial protection. Veterans who don’t have health coverage are at high risk of facing high medical costs. It’s one of the reasons many veterans are in deep debt because they lack health coverage.
Keep in mind the cost of treating a broken leg can reach up to $7,500. And if you need to stay in a hospital for three days, the cost can go up to $30,000.
With the right health insurance for you and your family, the medical costs can be reduced significantly after meeting the deductible. When the cost reaches your plan’s deductible, the health plan will cover part of the expenses. It depends on the plan but health insurance can cover from 60% to 90% of your covered medical costs, after meeting the deductible.
The health plan will also help you pay less as long as you undergo covered in-network health care.
Furthermore, you can get free preventive care, such as screenings, checkups, and vaccines. Your family members will also enjoy these benefits.
Even before meeting the deductible, you may still pay for a significant amount of money in medical costs. It’s especially true if your health plan is an HMO, PPO, or EPO.
Your health insurers will negotiate discounts with your healthcare providers. As a plan member, you will pay for the discounted rate. If you’re a veteran sans insurance, you will pay twice as much for care.
Is Health Insurance an Investment?
Yes, it is a good investment for your health. It protects you from financial struggle when you meet a serious accident.
Final Thoughts
Can veterans get health insurance for family? Yes, they can. However, it depends on their plans. Some family members aren’t eligible. But there are several options to choose from that their family members can apply for to get the right coverage that they need. Read here the cheapest health insurance in UAE.
Janey Danes started her career as a part-time article writer, editor and proofreader in 2008. She specializes in topics related to health, travel, technology, family, and spiritual life. Danes is a licensed medical technologist and she holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Information Technology. She is also a contributor to Travel Philippines | Entertainment and Medical Technology Avenue. You can also find her on Google+.
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