You might assume that your VA benefits provide all the coverage you will ever need, but that assumption can fall apart as soon as you try to get care outside the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) system. Many veterans learn about the limits of their coverage only when they need help the most, like during an emergency, while traveling, or when the nearest VA hospitals, clinics or medical centers are hours away.

VA benefits only apply to VA-approved providers and facilities. If you go to a private clinic or emergency room or need treatment while traveling, those visits may not be covered. If you want the best protection, you should consider buying a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan. Below, this Medicare supplement provider in Merrillville, Indiana is going to explain how you could benefit from combining Medigap with your VA benefits.

Relying only on VA benefits might not be enough for your health needs.

VA healthcare is a well-deserved benefit for those who have served in the military, but it requires that care must only be provided through VA hospitals, clinics or medical centers. If you need to visit a non-VA provider, you could have to pay the full cost unless you have prior approval, which, of course, is not always possible in emergencies.

Enter Medicare. It is a federal insurance program for people 65 and older that gives you access to a broader range of healthcare services and providers. Medicare Part A covers hospital stays, while Part B covers services like doctor visits, tests, and preventive screenings.

If you delay signing up for Medicare because you think your VA benefits are enough, you could have to pay late enrollment penalties. These penalties stay on your plan and increase your monthly costs for life. In 2025, Medicare Part B has a standard monthly premium of $185. It is an extra cost, but it is worth it for the access and security it gives you.

Tens of thousands of veterans receive disability or pension benefits in Indiana, but many live far from the nearest VA facility. In those cases, relying on VA coverage alone is not very realistic. It’s best to consult a Medicare supplement provider in Merrillville, Indiana to learn more about the Medigap plans available to you.

Medicare Supplement can fill the gaps that VA and Medicare leave behind.

Medicare provides broad coverage, but it still leaves some costs on the table. Once Medicare covers around 80% of approved services, you are responsible for the remaining 20%. A Medicare Supplement plan covers these remaining expenses. These plans are standardized and regulated, so your Medigap benefits will always be consistent.

With Medigap, you can also see any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare without needing referrals or approvals. This opens a lot of options, especially if you don’t live near a VA facility or want more freedom to choose your healthcare providers. An experienced Medicare supplement provider in Merrillville, Indiana can help you review available options in your area and find a plan that complements both your healthcare needs and budget.

What is included in a Medicare Supplement plan?

Medigap does not overlap with VA benefits. Instead, it complements your Medicare coverage. For example, if you need outpatient surgery at a private medical center, Medicare will pay its portion of the bill, and your Medigap plan will cover most or all of what is left. But if you were relying on VA benefits alone, you would probably be responsible for the entire bill unless it was pre-approved by the VA.

Plan G is one of the most popular Medigap plans for veterans. It covers nearly all out-of-pocket Medicare costs except for the Part B deductible. It is ideal for those who want predictable costs and the ability to access services beyond the VA network.

Looking for a Medicare Supplement Provider in Merrillville, Indiana?

Are you thinking about adding a Medigap plan to support your existing VA benefits? Searching for a trusted Medicare supplement provider in Merrillville, Indiana who can help you make an informed decision? If so, our agents at Senior Care Insurance Services are here to explain the options and help you make a confident choice. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.