Veterans who have other health coverage (like private insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid) are allowed to use VA benefits in conjunction with other health care plans to cover medical expenses, including SUDs.8
If you are receiving medical care for conditions that aren’t related to military service, the VA will require you to provide information about your other health insurance coverage so that they can bill private health insurance companies.8
In accordance with the VA MISSION Act of 2018, the VA does not need to get permission to bill private health insurance for a “sensitive diagnosis,” such as treatment for drug or alcohol abuse.8
Some treatment coverage options for veterans include:
TRICARE
Tricare is a health insurance program for active-duty service members, their family members, and veterans. TRICARE insurance covers the cost of substance abuse treatment through VA hospitals. Some of the benefits covered through TRICARE include:5
Medicaid
Medicaid offers free or low-cost health insurance and supplements for those who need it, including those who have VA insurance. An estimated 1 in 10 veterans has some Medicare coverage for their healthcare needs.6
Medicaid is not accepted at every addiction treatment facility throughout the country, so it’s important to ensure that the facilities you are considering accept Medicaid. If you’re considering an AAC facility, you can quickly verify your benefits to determine what costs will be covered by Medicaid or other types of insurance plans.
Medicare
If you are a veteran and have Medicare, you may still be covered if you go to a non-VA hospital or doctor. This can give you more options to choose from for certain services. The VA may also authorize some services you receive at a non-VA location, at which point Medicare may pay for those services.8
It’s important to check your Medicare plan to make sure you’re covered for the locations and services you need.