Q: I’m a retired veteran and often need assistance in managing my health care needs. What can I do to make the process easier?
A: It can be difficult for veterans to find all of the paperwork they need when navigating the health care system. Veterans often face an uphill battle in accessing the benefits they are entitled to receive. Unfortunately, this includes accessing health care, too, but there are steps veterans can take to combat the problem. You can advocate for your health by keeping track of your medical records and other important documents.
It’s often overwhelming to assert your needs and seek the care you deserve. Here are six documents that can help veterans advocate for their health:
1. Explanation of benefits: The first document that you should keep on hand is your insurance policy’s explanation of benefits. This statement describes what your policy will and won’t cover, the cost of various services and what portion the insurer will pay for those services. Understanding your health insurance is imperative.