Maximizing TRICARE and Medicare Benefits for Veterans
Maximizing TRICARE and Medicare: The Power Duo You Need
If you’re a retired service member with TRICARE and Medicare, you’ve got one of the best healthcare combinations around. But wait—are you really making the most out of both? Because if you’re not, you could be leaving money on the table. Don’t worry, I’ve got your back!
You’ve worked hard to earn your TRICARE benefits, but adding Medicare into the mix can give you even better coverage and help reduce out-of-pocket costs. Let’s break down how to use both so you’re covered from every angle.
RMBA HOME PAGE - Explore essential resources for veterans' benefits and Medicare guidance here
How TRICARE and Medicare Work Together
When you turn 65 and enroll in Medicare, it doesn’t replace your TRICARE for Life. Instead, Medicare becomes your primary coverage, and TRICARE works as secondary coverage to pick up the rest of your medical expenses.
Here’s how it works:
Medicare pays first for the care you receive (hospital stays, doctor visits, outpatient care).
TRICARE for Life (TFL) pays second, covering most of the remaining costs, such as deductibles and copayments.
This combination works seamlessly to save you money on healthcare services that Medicare doesn’t fully cover, especially if you see civilian doctors or use non-VA providers.
Why You Need Both: The Benefits of Combining TRICARE and Medicare
You may be wondering, “If I have TRICARE, why do I need Medicare?” Well, I’ll tell you why. Medicare isn’t just an extra expense—it’s an investment in your healthcare. Here’s why you need both:
1. More Access to Providers
While TRICARE is excellent, its network is mainly focused on military treatment facilities (MTFs) and civilian providers who accept TRICARE. With Medicare, you get access to more civilian doctors, specialists, and hospitals that accept Medicare.
For example, if you're living far from an MTF or need to see a specialist outside the TRICARE network, Medicare gives you the freedom to choose.
2. Prescription Drug Coverage
While TRICARE offers prescription drug coverage through its pharmacy program, Medicare Part D can be a game-changer if you need medications that TRICARE doesn’t cover, or if you prefer civilian pharmacies.
Medicare Part D helps you save on prescriptions, so you don’t have to worry about where to fill them or if you’ll have access to the medications you need.
3. More Comprehensive Coverage
With Medicare in place, you’ll have additional coverage beyond what TRICARE offers. This means:
Lower out-of-pocket costs
More healthcare flexibility
Access to preventive services (things like screenings and vaccinations) that are covered under Medicare
If you’re trying to minimize your healthcare spending, Medicare can help you do that by covering a broader range of services. It's the extra insurance policy you didn’t know you needed!
A Personal Story: How Medicare and TRICARE Saved Joe Big Time
Let me tell you about Joe, a veteran who retired with TRICARE for Life. Joe thought, “I’m good—TRICARE covers everything I need.” But after a few hospital visits and some outpatient care, Joe realized he was paying a lot more out-of-pocket than he should have been. That’s when he decided to add Medicare to the mix.
By enrolling in Medicare Part A and Part B, Joe’s hospital and doctor bills dropped significantly because Medicare picked up the majority of the costs, leaving TRICARE to cover what was left. He ended up saving hundreds of dollars and gained access to more civilian providers for care.
How Can RMBA Help You Maximize Your Benefits?
At Retired Military Benefit Association (RMBA), we specialize in helping veterans like you maximize the benefits of both TRICARE and Medicare. If you’re not sure how to navigate the two programs or need assistance enrolling in Medicare, we’re here to help.
Here’s what we do:
Explain how TRICARE and Medicare work together
Help you enroll in the right Medicare plan for your needs
Show you how to save money by coordinating your coverage
With our help, you can make sure you’re not missing out on any coverage and that you’re getting the best healthcare possible.
Conclusion: TRICARE and Medicare—A Winning Combo
When you combine TRICARE with Medicare, you’re not just getting better coverage; you’re saving money and gaining more access to care. Whether you’re about to turn 65, or you’ve been eligible for a while, now’s the time to make sure you’re using both to your advantage.
Reach out to RMBA today, and let’s make sure you’re getting the full benefits you’ve earned!
RMBA HOME PAGE - Explore essential resources for veterans' benefits and Medicare guidance here
