Health

A dental debacle: Why veterans struggle to navigate VA’s oral care

A complex system is pushing more vets to search for private-sector solutions to health issues, all while hoping the VA will eventually pick up the bill.

Opinion

The post-9/11 generation’s path to post-traumatic growth

Veterans who embody the ethos of post-traumatic growth push back against the narrative of the “broken” vet. I urge you to join them.

Ask Kevin: My spouse and I are near 65. Is self-plus-one the best plan?

There are many differences between BCBS Standard and BCBS Basic, but these three benefits might be the most significant.

Ask Kevin: I enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan. Can I switch back?

A reader wonders if they can revert to their original plan of Medicare A and B and FEHB after opting in to an MA plan.

Ask Kevin: Are Medicare Advantage plans advantageous for singles?

A reader making less in retirement wonders if Part B premiums are still worth the extra expense.

Ask Kevin: Can I enroll in Medicare Advantage plan outside open season?

A reader planning on retiring soon asks about enrolling in an MA plan outside of Open Season.

Does BCBS offer Medicare Advantage plan for feds? An expert weighs in.

Kevin Moss, an FEHB expert, answers a reader question about how Medicare Advantage plans can boost health insurance coverage.

Republicans back abortion ban in $360B VA budget draft for next year

VA would see a 10% boost in funding under a plan advanced by Republican appropriators on Tuesday, but Democrats oppose other parts of the bill.

More than 1 million vets have received new toxic exposure benefits

President Joe Biden will announce Tuesday that more than 1 million military toxic exposure claims have been approved by Veterans Affairs staff since 2022.

Psychedelic therapy data ‘speaks for itself,’ VA official says

The VA’s top health official said the agency is prepared to spend “at least in the millions” on clinical trials of psychedelic therapies for PTSD.

OPM urged to commit to protecting IVF in federal health insurance

With reproductive issues questioned in courts, Democrats voiced their expectations for the largest employer-sponsored health program in the country.

Veterans sentenced for role in $65 million insurance fraud scheme

Two members of a scheme to bilk a military health care program out of more than $65 million received sentences in federal court.

Deployed troops inhaled toxic air even while off-duty, study finds

Lung samples from service members they tested found traces of toxic vaporized metals and other hazardous items, well above that of non-deployed personnel.

Guard units may assist with solar eclipse tourists facing dark times

Once upon a time they were training for the mission. Now they're helping tourists safely have fun. There’s nothing they can do. A total eclipse of the sun.

DOD reproductive care travel policy used just 12 times in 7 months

A policy allowing troops to be reimbursed for travel if they go out of state for abortions and other reproductive services hasn't been used much.

Fight over VA toxic exposure funds could stall other vets legislation

Lawmakers are sparring over proposed changes to a fund covering the costs of veterans' toxic exposure benefits.