At SAVI, we want to ensure that you’re taking advantage of the privileges and benefits you qualify for as a Veteran or dependent through the US Department of Veterans Affairs. The first step to gaining coverage is being informed. Here’s everything you need to know about options for VA dental, vision, and healthcare for dependents in 2020.
VA Dental Coverage
When thinking of your VA healthcare options, it’s easy to direct your focus to medical coverage. However, you may qualify for an all-encompassing dental plan through the VA.
Many factors determine coverage, including:
- Details of your prior military service,
- Your current living situation
- Your current medical state
Input your information into this VA site to find out your options.
Don’t qualify for dental benefits? You may be able to reduce costs of dental insurance through the VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP).
In order to enroll in VADIP, you must be a Veteran already enrolled in the VA healthcare system or a dependent enrolled in the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the VA (CHAMPVA).
VA Vision Coverage
If you’re already qualified for VA healthcare benefits, you certainly qualify for at least some vision care through the VA as well. According to the VA website, it will cover routine annual eye exams and preventative testing if you already have VA healthcare benefits.
More extensive vision coverage is dependent upon additional conditions.
You may qualify if you:
- Have a service-connected disability for which you’re receiving disability payments
- Are a former Prisoner of War (POW)
- Are a Purple Heart recipient
- Receive benefits under Title 38 United States Code (U.S.C.) 1151
- Receive an increased pension due to being permanently housebound
- Have vision problems caused by an illness — or the treatment of an illness — for which you’re receiving VA care.
- Have vision problems caused by an injury — or the treatment of an injury — for which you’re receiving VA care.
- Have functional or cognitive impairment severe enough to make everyday tasks difficult
- Have vision and/or hearing loss severe enough you need assistance in caring for yourself
For blind Veterans, The VA offers advanced care options, including:
- Inpatient rehabilitation centers
- Vision-enhancing devices
Learn more about VA vision coverage and apply online here.
VA Healthcare for Dependents
If you’re a Veteran spouse, child, or a primary caregiver, you may qualify for the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA). It’s a comprehensive healthcare program in which the VA shares the cost of covered health care services with eligible beneficiaries. CHAMPVA is the only way non-Tricare qualifying dependents can receive VA healthcare.
One or more of the following descriptions must be true for you to receive CHAMPVA. If you are:
- The spouse or child of a Veteran who’s been rated permanently and totally disabled for a service-connected disability by a VA regional benefit office
- The surviving spouse or child of a Veteran who died from a VA-rated service-connected disability
- The surviving spouse or child of a Veteran who was at the time of death rated permanently and totally disabled from a service-connected disability
- The surviving spouse or child of a service-member who died in the line of duty
For caregivers, the VA also offers The Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC). It provides support to caregivers of Veterans injured in the line of duty on or after Sept. 11, 2001. Through this program, caregivers can receive counseling, respite care, education, monetary support and more.
Still Have Questions About VA Healthcare?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, please reach out to SAVI to learn more about our free Veteran services!
Check out SAVI’s free programs here, or contact info@savivets.wpengine.com to learn more.