Question:

Hi Jim. 100% P&T. Also SSDI three years. My question is about my Medicare. I know part A is mandatory, but I'm wondering if I should continue to pay for part B. I live 10 minutes from my VA PC. I live 15 minutes from a VA hospital. My wife has CHAMPVA and Medicare. We are 54 and 52. We are in our forever home. I have never needed the part B. I have had nothing but good experiences and care with my VA coverage. I lived in the southeast and was visiting family in the Northwest when I had a major medical event requiring hospitalization. The VA covered all costs. I understand there is a penalty if I cancel and then reapply. As the wife is my caretaker and doesn't work, every penny counts. Thank you for your service and your time.

Jim's Reply:

Part B and any other insurance that is elective and requires a payment is a very personal decision, entirely up to you and your tolerance for risk and payments.

I use Medicare Part B often as I live quite a ways from VA care and I have outstanding civilian facilities minutes away. You seem to have a great handle on how it all works so again, it's your call. If the dollars are tight it appears it would make perfect sense for you to do without Part B.

Good luck!