What happens after the 5 years of free VA healthcare are used up?

PO2 Michael Henry — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 13:58:45 -0400

My 5 years of free VA healthcare end June 20, 2017. What should I do or know so I don't get caught off guard later? I am service connected with a 30% rating and appealing for higher.

Response by CPL Crystal Pettway, MBA made Apr 17 at 2017 2:01 PM

CPL Crystal Pettway, MBA — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 14:01:29 -0400

I'm pretty sure that if you have the 30% rating, you should be entitle to free medical care from the VA. Do you have a disability benefits booklet from the VA? It should give you an idea of how to proceed. If you don't have one, you get one online from va.gov

Response by MCPO Roger Collins made Apr 17 at 2017 2:19 PM

MCPO Roger Collins — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 14:19:14 -0400

Found this, it's a bit confusing though.

https://www.va.gov/healthbenefits/gateway/combat_vets.asp

Combat Veterans - Health Benefits

Combat Veterans

Response by SFC Andrew Miller made Apr 17 at 2017 3:17 PM

SFC Andrew Miller — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 15:17:21 -0400

The 5 year rule entitles you to Priority Group 6 care, while being rated at 30% entitles you to Priority Group 2 care. The only real differences are the copays. You will have copays for any outpatient medication, but if you are using the mail order pharmacy with formulary or generic drugs you still won't have a copay for them. Here is a link to the current co-pay plan.

https://www.va.gov/healthbenefits/resources/publications/IB10-431_copay_requirements_at_a_glance.pdf

Also keep in mind that you are eligible for travel for any service connected disability related treatment or appointments.

IB10-431_copay_requirements_at_a_glance.pdf