Jim,
I have VA health benefits due to disability compensation for prostate cancer. My rating is 60%. I also have Blue Cross/Blue Shield insurance through my spouse. Am I supposed to advise the non-VA hospital where I was recently treated for a partial bowel obstruction that I have VA medical coverage? Can BC/BS try to bill the VA to recover the medical costs? Thank you for your help in this matter.
Reply:
If you were treated for a non-service connected event at a civilian hospital, it's no concern of the VA. I wouldn't mention the dual coverage to the civilian hospital. If your bills are paid and you are getting good health care, that's all that counts. VA won't pay for any elective condition treated at a non-VA facility. If VA treats you for a non-service connected condition, they will bill your civilian insurance provider for a portion of that care.