Ex-POWs receive
expanded health benefits

Question: I read something recently that mentioned new VA benefits for former prisoners of war. Can you explain what they are?

Answer: The VA has expanded benefits to all former POWs with strokes and most heart diseases. Those veterans will be automatically eligible for disability compensation for those common ailments, and their spouses and dependents will be eligible for service-connected survivors' benefits if these diseases contribute to the death of a former POW. This new decision will add to the list of 16 medical problems that VA presumes to be linked to the military service of former POWs. The new rules took effect Oct. 7. If you are an ex-POW and have not contacted the VA, call the VA at 433-1000 or the VA clinic at 433-0600.

Q: How many copayment charges may be assessed during a single day?

A: Generally, you will be charged only one copayment on a single day, whether it be an inpatient, outpatient or long-term care copayment, based on the highest level of service provided on that day. Medication copayments, which are applicable only to outpatients, vary depending upon the number of prescriptions filled. If you are an outpatient who has both a specialty care visit as well as a basic care visit on the same day, you will be charged for the specialty care visit since it is the more expensive level of care. Inpatient copayments are based on both a standard charge for each 90 days of care within a 365-day period as well as a per diem (daily) charge. Since long-term care copayments can apply to inpatient or outpatient-type services, the copayments vary based upon the service provided and your ability to pay. For more information on copayments, contact the VA clinic at 433-0600.