A Veteran’s Health Insurance History

A Veteran shared his health insurance history while he drove a ride-sharing customer. He was semi-retired after a career as a professional truck driver because of his wife’s declining health. Here’s his story.  

How was his health? The Veteran, a man in his late 60s, suffered chronic pain from an injury during the Vietnam War. He took two prescription drugs to manage the pain. He also experienced periodic health issues that required a specialist.

When he was working, how was he insured? As a truck driver, the Veteran’s employer offered a health insurance plan “but I had to pay for it.” He also enrolled in Veterans Health Care given his war injury.  

How is he insured now that he was semi-retired? The Veteran enrolled in traditional Medicare and bought a supplement plan when he turned 65. He also continued to enroll in Veterans Health Care, which included dental and vision care not covered by Medicare.

What about his family? The Veterans’ wife, who had recently been diagnosed with dementia, was covered by Medicare. She also qualified for Medicaid because of her medical status. She had home health assistance several days per week, which gave her husband time to drive for “extra money.”

Where does he obtain care? The Veteran’s primary care physician worked at one of the local VA Medical Center’s primary care clinics. “She takes real good care of me. When I need a specialist, I can also get care at the best hospital in the area.”

How much does he spend? The Veteran paid monthly premiums for traditional Medicare and the supplement. He also paid an out-of-pocket cost for some dental and vision care, such as a new crown and progressive lenses.

What else? While the Veteran didn’t speak of his medical treatment during the war, he would have been cared for by the country’s Military Health Care system. The system cares for active military based in the U.S. and while overseas.   

The Veteran’s history included employer coverage, traditional Medicare, and Veterans Health Care; his wife’s coverage included Medicaid. While he complained about administrative issues, he felt lucky to be so well covered. In other words, this Veteran was Mastering Health Insurance.  

Photo: National World War I Museum and Memorial, Kansas City, MO