Military veterans, here’s what you need to consider about Medicare

Author: Andy Zinkievich, Humana Veterans Engagement Executive, DAV member of Chapter 1, Wake County, N.C. Date: 10/12/2022

The Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plan Annual Election Period runs from October 15 through December 7. Veterans who have the option to select a Medicare Advantage plan to complement their Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits should consider some key factors as they research plan options:

• Understand how Medicare Advantage works with VA benefits: A Medicare Advantage plan may help reduce gaps in your health care coverage and provide access to additional services and benefits that may not be covered by VA health care. For example, Humana Honor Medicare Advantage plans were designed with veterans in mind and provide additional benefits such as dental care and $0 monthly plan premiums. In addition to these plans, Medicare-eligible veterans can select from any Medicare Advantage plan in their area. 
• Understand how Medicare Advantage works with TRICARE and/or CHAMPVA: If you have TRICARE for Life or CHAMPVA and decide to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, the Medicare Advantage plan will become your primary coverage and may require that you see only in-network providers. TRICARE for Life or CHAMPVA beneficiaries may consider enrolling in a Medicare Advantage (MAPD) plan if they can coordinate billing and do not mind being limited to a network of providers.
• Know the process for prescription drug coverage: When you add a Medicare Advantage plan, your VA prescription drug coverage would continue to cover prescriptions written or approved by a VA doctor. However, a Medicare Advantage plan would cover certain Part B medications, like injectable drugs and infusions. If you sign up for a plan with Medicare prescription drug coverage, certain medicines from non-VA doctors would be covered and can be filled at local network pharmacies instead of through the VA.

As you research health plan options, use credible sources such as Medicare.gov to compare plans and estimate costs based on your needs. You can also enroll in online educational events or coordinate a meeting with a licensed sales agent to review 2023 Medicare Advantage plan options. Additionally, you can learn about reputable organizations that stand behind Medicare plans. For example, Humana Medicare Advantage plans – such as its Honor plan – are recommended by USAA, a company known for its customer satisfaction and commitment to the financial security of current and former members of the U.S. military.

For more information, visit www.Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can go to www.Humana.com or call 1-800-213-5286 (TTY: 711) from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time, seven days a week.

You also can call the dedicated DAV toll-free number at Humana at 800-238-7159 to talk with a specially trained agent or arrange an in-person consultation.