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Q669: I served in the U.S. Air Force from 1970 to 1974. I earned an Honorable discharge upon my separation from service. I want to know if I am eligible for VA benefits and to use the VA hospitals for my medical needs? Currently, I am on Medicare, and paying for medication through Medicare is costing me a fortune. If I am eligible for VA benefits, could I get my expensive medications from the VA?
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A1: If you are in the VA medical system you can get your meds through the VA. Contact your VSO and get the answers. (MH) 2/22/21
A2: Yes, I was in the Navy, Helo Squadron, I have been going to the VA for several years. On some meds they may have generic drugs instead of name brands. Working around jets I got ringing in my ears, I got ten percent and some great hearing aids. (JD) 2/22/21
A3: Did you serve in country in Vietnam? If so, you are considered as a category of Agent Orange. It then depends on what you are being treated for and what % of disability you would be placed at. If you are a Vietnam Veteran, sign up at the VA now or go to your local American Legion and ask for help. An accredited representative is an individual who has undergone a formal application and training process and is recognized by VA as being capable of assisting claimants with their affairs before VA. Most accredited representatives work for veteran service organizations (VSOs) many of which are private non-profit groups that advocate on behalf of Veterans, Service members, dependents and survivors. It doesn't hurt to ask and support your local American Legion. Good Luck! (GS) 2/22/21
A4: You may very well be able to enroll in VA healthcare and receive your medications from the VA. You will need to complete a VA Form 10-10EZ and submit to the eligibility department at the nearest VA medical facility. If you are not service connected disabled or on the wartime pension, your eligibility is based on your previous calendar year's gross household income. If it falls below the current means test threshold, you can be enrolled. There are some other situations in which the VA must enroll you, such as serving in Vietnam. As far as medications go, if the medication is prescribed by another provider and you present it to your VA provider, it may or may not be filled. All medications are not on the VA formulary. If you provider deems you need a medication not on the formulary, your provider has to make a non formulary request, which may or may not be honored. (DS) 2/22/21
A5: I would suggest you talk to a County Veteran Service Agent. They should be able to help you. (DE) 2/23/21