VA Loma Linda to Educate Veterans on Health Reform

The VA Loma Linda Healthcare System will host open forums on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and its effects on Veterans this month. The informational sessions will take place on consecutive Fridays—Oct. 11, 18 and 25 at 2 p.m.—in the auditorium at the Jerry L. Pettis Memorial VA Medical Center in Loma Linda. Each presentation will be the same, so interested veterans need only attend one session. Without additional Congressional or White House action, most provisions of the healthcare reform law, more commonly called simply the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and frequently referred to as “Obamacare,” will take effect on Jan. 1, 2014. The VA wants all veterans to receive health care that improves their health and well-being and understand their VA health care and other health coverage options. If enrolled in VA health care, a veteran does not need to take additional steps to meet the health care law coverage standards. The health care law does not change VA health benefits or veterans’ out-of-pocket costs. Veterans and other beneficiaries not currently enrolled in VA health care can apply for enrollment at any time. Applications are accepted online at www.va.gov/healthbenefits/enroll, by phone at 877-222-VETS (8387), by mail, or in person at a VA medical facility. The VA will continue to provide veterans with high-quality, comprehensive health care and benefits they have earned through their service. Veterans’ family members and veterans not eligible for VA care may secure coverage through the marketplace.