Medicare & Veterans: Can You Have Both VA Benefits and Medicare?

If you're a U.S. veteran, you may already have health care through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). But once you turn 65, you become eligible for Medicare too. So what happens now? Can you have both VA benefits and Medicare? And should you?

Let’s clear things up.

🪖 Yes, You Can Have Both VA Benefits and Medicare

Good news: You’re allowed to be enrolled in both the VA health system and Medicare at the same time—and many veterans choose to do just that.

Here’s why having both can be a smart move.

💡 Why You Might Want Both VA and Medicare

While VA benefits are excellent, they only cover care at VA facilities. If you need care outside the VA—or want to see non-VA doctors—Medicare gives you more options.

Here’s how the two work together:

Benefit Type

Where you can get care

Emergency coverage

Prescription drugs

Costs

VA Benefits

VA hospitals and clinics

VA facilities only (unless pre-approved)

VA pharmacies

Based on VA priority group and service connection

Medicare

Any provider that accepts Medicare

Nationwide coverage, including ERs and urgent care

Medicare Part D or Advantage plan drug coverage

Premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance may apply

Having both means you can:

✅ See non-VA doctors or specialists
✅ Get care if you’re traveling or far from a VA facility
✅ Avoid long wait times at some VA locations
✅ Be better protected in emergencies

💰 Will You Have to Pay for Medicare If You Have VA?

Yes—Medicare is separate from the VA system. If you want Medicare Part B (which covers doctor visits and outpatient care), you’ll need to pay a monthly premium (standard is around $175/month in 2025). But many veterans see this as a worthwhile investment for added flexibility and peace of mind.

Skipping Medicare Part B could lead to lifetime penalties if you enroll later, unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

💊 What About Prescription Drug Coverage?

The VA has its own drug coverage program, which is considered "creditable coverage" (meaning it’s as good or better than Medicare Part D). So if you use the VA for prescriptions, you may not need to enroll in Part D. But if you ever want to use a non-VA pharmacy, Medicare Part D could help cover those costs.

🎯 Bottom Line

You earned your VA benefits—but adding Medicare gives you freedom, flexibility, and backup. Having both helps ensure you’re fully covered—wherever life takes you.

🗓️ Ready to understand how Medicare works with your VA benefits?

👉 Book Your Free Medicare & VA Benefits Review
We’ll help you decide what coverage makes the most sense for your health, lifestyle, and budget.