Which is better VA or Medicaid?
Asked by: Nels Zieme | Last update: August 2, 2025Score: 5/5 (4 votes)
Are VA benefits better than Medicaid?
The type of care a person requires is usually the major deciding factor between choosing Medicaid or a VA pension. Generally, for those needing home care or assisted living, VA benefits are better. For those who need nursing-home care, Medicaid is usually better.
Is there a downside to getting Medicaid?
One major drawback about Medicaid is, tons of doctors and hospitals don't take it. So, you're most definitely not going to have the kinds of high quality choices that you're used to.
Can you have VA and Medicaid at the same time?
VA patients qualifying for VA health care benefits because of incomes below a means test may now be eligible for Medicaid and may switch providers or reduce their use of VA care. As few dual VA‐Medicaid enrollees were nonelderly in the past (Hendricks et al.
What is the income limit for Medicaid in VA?
As a result of eligibility expansion, Medicaid is available to Virginia adults under age 65 who earn up to 138% of the federal poverty level. In 2024, that's $20,782 for a single person, and about $35,631 for an adult in a household of three people).
Which is better VA benefits or Medicaid benefits
What does Medicaid not cover?
Though Medicaid covers a wide range of services, there are limitations on certain types of care, such as infertility treatments, elective abortions, and some types of alternative medicine. For example, the federal government lists family planning as a mandatory service benefit, but states interpret this differently.
How much money can you have in the bank with Medicaid in Virginia?
Have countable resources of not more than $2,000 for one person or $3,000 for a couple. Resources are things such as bank accounts (checking, savings, certificates of deposit, Christmas club, etc.), stocks, bonds, the cash value of some life insurance policies, property that does not adjoin your home, etc.
Who pays first VA or Medicaid?
The VA pays for VA-authorized services or items . For active-duty military enrolled in Medicare, TRICARE pays first for Medicare- covered services or items, and Medicare pays second . For inactive-duty military enrolled in Medicare, Medicare pays first and TRICARE may pay second .
How much does VA health care cost per month?
There is no monthly premium required to use VA care, however Veterans may have to agree to pay copayments. If a Veteran has health insurance, it may cover the cost of co pays.
Can you own a house and be on Medicaid in VA?
Ownership of real property must be considered when determining your Medicaid eligibility but does not necessarily keep you from receiving Medicaid. The Medicaid eligibility worker will need to see copies of the deeds and tax statements to evaluate the rules that apply in your situation.
Why do most doctors not accept Medicaid?
One reason is that reimbursement rates for Medicaid are lower than for Medicare or commercial insurance. Another (often overlooked) factor, however, is physician's risk of payment denials and the administrative hassle they face trying to get reimbursed by Medicaid.
What is the main problem with Medicaid?
But it has been difficult to launch and sustain managed care under Medicaid: Program design has been complicated and time-consuming, and administrative costs are higher, at least in the initial stages (Freund et. al., 1989; Spitz and Abramson, 1987). The Federal waiver process has been cumbersome for many States.
Does Medicaid cover 100% of hospital bills?
What Medicaid Covers. Once an individual is deemed eligible for Medicaid coverage, generally there are no, or only very small, monthly payments, co-pays or deductibles. The program pays almost the full amount for health and long-term care, provided the medical service supplier is Medicaid-certified.
Which is better VA benefits or Medicare?
Having Medicare means you're covered if you need to go to a non-VA hospital or doctor—so you have more options to choose from. Funding for VA health care could change in the future. We encourage you to sign up for every health care benefit that you're eligible for so you have options if you need them.
Do veterans get free healthcare for life?
No! You get VA Healthcare if you have a service connected injury or illness. Any Veteran can be treated by VA but there can be costs, sometimes large costs.
What state has best VA benefits?
Texas is often considered one of the best states for disabled veterans. Noteworthy benefits include: Housing Grants: Texas offers various housing grants to disabled veterans, including those for home modifications and weatherization.
What disqualifies you from VA benefits?
absence without official leave (AWOL) for a continuous period of 180 days or more, without compelling circumstances to warrant such prolonged unauthorized absence (as determined by VA). This means that if an individual is discharged for any of the above reasons, the law prohibits VA from providing any benefits.
Can you go to any hospital with VA benefits?
Veterans can receive emergency care in a non-VA healthcare facility. The VA defines a medical emergency as an injury, illness, or symptom that is so severe that any delay would be reasonably expected to endanger the veteran's life or health.
Can you have both VA and Medicaid?
Yes, get him to apply. I use CA medi-cal for all my health issues thats non-service connected and then use my VA PCP for referral to specialist related to my service connection disability. I utilize both services and pay zero out of pocket.
Will I lose my Medicaid if I get Medicare?
People who have both Medicare and full Medicaid coverage are “dually eligible.” Medicare pays first when you're a dual eligible and you get Medicare-covered services. Medicaid pays last, after Medicare and any other health insurance you have.
Can anyone get Medicaid in VA?
Medicaid has health coverage programs for adults in Virginia who qualify. There are no enrollment costs and no monthly premiums for adults between 19-64 years old who qualify. Their income must be within the limits. Adults who are 65 or older, disabled, or blind may qualify for full Medicaid.
What disqualifies you from Medicaid?
In general, a single person must have no more than $2,000 in cash assets to qualify. If you're over 65, the requirements are more complex. Whatever your age, there are strict rules about asset transfers. Medicaid may take into consideration any gifts or transfers of cash you've made recently.
How long does it take to get approved for Medicaid in Virginia?
It may take up to 45 days to get a decision on your application. To check your status, you can log in to your account at commonhelp.virginia.gov by clicking the Check My Benefits button or call Cover Virginia at 1-855-242-8282 (TDD: 1-888-221-1590). Is there only one type of Medicaid coverage?
Will Medicaid check my bank account?
Yes, if you're submitting a Medicaid application, the agency you're sending it to can check your bank account.