A Veteran’s Health Insurance History in Hartford, CT
A Vietnam Veteran in his late 60s talked about his health and his coverage. While retired, he was a part-time ride share driver to supplement his income. Here’s his story.
How was health? The Veteran had a wide range of medical issues. He had war-time injuries that caused chronic pain. He was living with Type II diabetes, and he had lost several toes to amputation. He suffered on one cardiac episode that required emergency surgery “to fix my heart.”
When he was working, how was he insured? The Veteran worked for a local business for many years after returning from Vietnam. The company provided employer-based health insurance, which he used until he retired at 65.
How is he insured now that he was retired? The Veteran enrolled in traditional Medicare but didn’t buy a supplement plan. “I’m enrolled in VA health care, which takes care of anything Medicare doesn’t cover. Sometimes I have to pay a few dollars.”
Where does he obtain care? The Veteran had a long-term relationship with a primary care physician (PCP), who managed most of his care. He also visited a PCP at the nearby VA clinic to get referrals for specialty, dental, and vision care.
What else? The Veteran shared that his family was dedicated to military service. He spoke about his father, uncles, brothers, and now his grandchildren, including a granddaughter. “She needs to stay healthy because I want a great-grandchild.”
The Veteran’s history included employer coverage, traditional Medicare, and Veterans Health Care. He wished that his health was better, but he was grateful for his coverage. In other words, this Veteran was Mastering Health Insurance.
Photo: Connecticut State Capitol