Congress Expands Medical Coverage for Veterans

If you are a veteran receiving medical treatment in a non-VA facility, rest assured that your healthcare may be reimbursed by your VA benefits. As of February 2010, an amendment to Title 38 in the United States Code was passed by Congress. The amendment expands veteran reimbursement programs for emergency treatment received in a non-VA facility.

BENEFITS FOR VETERANS

According to the amendment, a US veteran is now eligible to be reimbursed by the Department of Veteran Affairs for emergency treatment in a non-VA facility. If a third party that takes over contractual liability of the treatment facility, the VA will again step up and provide coverage for the veteran, covering difference between what the third party provides and what is owed to the treatment facility. Copayments or other charge owed to a third party under a health plan contract may not be reimbursed.

COVERAGE FOR PAST TREATMENT

The original bill amending veterans' medical treatment was introduced in 2009 and became public laws number 111-137. Under the revised amendment to Title 38, the Secretary is authorized to reimburse a veteran for emergency care costs that were pursued even before the enactment of Title 38 if the situation is deemed appropriate.

Medical treatment for veterans should be top quality, and paid for as much as possible, as a way to continue to thank veterans for their service to our country. Title 38 and its latest amendment are part of that ongoing appreciation for veterans, like you.