CHAMPVA & Medicare
What You Need to Know
Supporting the Families of Those Who Served
The Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA) is a vital benefit for the spouses and dependents of Veterans who meet specific eligibility criteria. If you’re covered under CHAMPVA and qualify for Medicare, it’s important to understand how both programs work together—and how to make the most of your coverage.
At Military Medicare, we help CHAMPVA beneficiaries navigate Medicare, avoid unnecessary expenses, and protect their family’s health coverage.
What Is CHAMPVA?
CHAMPVA provides cost-sharing health coverage for eligible spouses, widows/widowers, and children of:
Veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected disability
Veterans who died from a service-connected condition
Veterans who were permanently and totally disabled at the time of death
Veterans who died in the line of duty, but are not eligible for TRICARE (which is for military retirees)
Benefits of Having Both Medicare & CHAMPVA
01
Comprehensive Coverage
Between Medicare and CHAMPVA, most services are fully covered.
02
Freedom to Choose Providers
See any provider that accepts Medicare—no networks, no referrals.
03
Prescription Drug Coverage
CHAMPVA offers a robust pharmacy program, so you don’t need to enroll in Medicare Part D.
04
Minimal Out-of-Pocket Costs
You’ll usually pay nothing beyond your Medicare Part B premium.
What About Medicare Advantage?
CHAMPVA is not compatible with most Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans. To ensure CHAMPVA continues as your secondary coverage, you should remain enrolled in Original Medicare (Parts A and B)—not switch to an Advantage plan.
Our advisors will walk you through your options and make sure you don’t accidentally lose your CHAMPVA benefits.
Need Help Understanding Your CHAMPVA & Medicare Options?
We know how important your family’s health and financial peace of mind are. That’s why our team of licensed Medicare advisors is here to help you:
Understand your Medicare enrollment requirements
Coordinate benefits correctly with CHAMPVA
Avoid costly mistakes
Plan ahead with confidence
CHAMPVA & Medicare: How They Work Together
If you’re 65 or older, or under 65 with a qualifying disability, you may be eligible for Medicare. In that case, you must enroll in both Medicare Part A and Part B to continue receiving CHAMPVA benefits.
Here’s how it works:
You receive care from a Medicare-authorized provider.
Medicare pays first (usually 80%).
CHAMPVA pays second (the remaining 20%).
You pay little to no out-of-pocket costs for covered services.
You Took Care of a Veteran. Now Let Us Take Care of You.
Let’s ensure you have the coverage and clarity you need for every chapter ahead. Our guidance is always free, friendly, and focused on your needs.
To empower Veterans and their families with the knowledge, tools, and support to make informed Medicare decisions—while protecting their earned VA and military healthcare benefits.