What is the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs, also known as CHAMPVA?
The Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA) is an insurance plan that covers the family members or dependents of deceased or permanently disabled veterans who were disabled due to a service-related condition as defined by the VA. It can be used on its own, with other health insurance as the secondary payer, or with a supplement.
CHAMPVA is Not TRICARE
While CHAMPVA is often confused with TRICARE, it is a separate program designed for those who do not qualify for TRICARE. This program helps ease the burden of healthcare costs for families who have sacrificed much for their country.
Who is eligible for CHAMPVA?
Any spouse or child of a veteran who died from or is permanently disabled because of a service-related condition is eligible for CHAMPVA.
What does CHAMPVA cover, and what does it not cover?
CHAMPVA covers many healthcare services, including inpatient and outpatient care, mental health services, prescription medications, and preventive care such as screenings and immunizations. However, cosmetic surgery and experimental treatments are not typically covered by CHAMPVA. Additionally, dental care is not typically covered, except in specific circumstances when deemed medically necessary.
How can CHAMPVA supplement insurance help?
While CHAMPVA pays for 75% of covered expenses, the remaining 25% not covered can be a large burden on families. Supplement insurance can help beneficiaries by covering out-of-pocket expenses like coinsurance, copayments, and costly deductibles, which are not covered. CHAMPVA supplement insurance plans like the one offered by GEA step in where CHAMPVA leaves off. These plans can help reduce out-of-pocket medical costs to $0 for services that insurance only partially covers.
To learn more about how CHAMPVA supplement insurance can help your family regardless of pre-existing conditions, please contact us today.
