So this is a long story but the underlying question I have is this. If an individual is and has been using the VA for medical can they still qualify for Medicare? My mother who has gone to the VA for as long as I can remember is largely in my care these days. She has had many rounds of cancer all which were treated by the VA. Ultimately she had a mastectomy due to the breast cancer several years ago. Last month she had a reconstructive surgery done to repair her breast. I wasnt in favor of the procedure but hey, I figured if it would improve her state of mind in any way then she deserved it. Sadly my biggest fears have come true. The results currently look like the procedure was done in a dark alley behind a 7-11 she is a complete mess and full of infection. It took 2 trips to the ER this weekend and alot of asking for the higher ups etc before I finally got someone to examine her that said WTF? Additionally we live over an hour away from the closest VA hospital. When I took her to our local ER they wouldnt help. Seems odd to me that anyone would be expected especially in an emergency situation to always be able to make it to 1 of 2 VA hospitals in our state. Anyone on here have any experience dealing with the VA on anything along these lines?? THANKS
In an emergency, the local ER is required by law to treat and stabilize and then transport to the VA. If she does not have any other insurance many times the VA will cover her emergency room treatment and ambulance. Even though she is seen by the VA, if she is otherwise eligible, Medicaid is available. Medicare eligibility is handled by the local welfare department. Good luck. Also have your mom sign a release so that the VA can discuss with you her medical situation and then you talk directly to the benefits rep at the VA to get the straight story. Just remember to document what dates and times, who you spoke with at the VA and a gist of the conversation.
You have your "care & caid" backwards. Medicaid is for the poor, not Medicare. Tacklebox, if she is of age...she can get Medicare. She will need A & B, and I recommend a Medicare Supplement F plan. Also a prescription drug plan. With that setup, she'll be completely covered and always know her out of pocket costs - no suprises. I have no clue what companies to recommend out there.
Yup, she should be eligible for Medicare and can still use the VA. I'm in the VA system combat wounded and related disability. They're now in the process of deciding if I'm 100 percent. Right now I'm 50. 100 would jack up my month tax free check almost $2000. I use VA for free meds. I'm also on Medicare. I also pay over $500 a month for private insurance. So I have 3 options going. Medicare is now my primary because of age. It gets me out of all copays also. Between the 3 every thing is pretty much paid for... like my $27,000 pacemaker I got last summer. The only thing I have to pay is some of my dental stuff. If VA raises me to 100% I'll get free dental and can chop my private bill by about 100 a month.
Thanks for the input guys. My wife and I have been digging into it for the last few days, what a headache.
