Is the VA an insurance policy or an HMO?
It is neither. VA health benefits are established by federal law and regulations and funded through congressional appropriations. They are not the same as an insurance contract. Also, veterans do not pay monthly premiums to receive VA health care. In addition, you are not required to use VA as your exclusive health care provider. If you have private health insurance or are eligible for other programs such as Medicare, Medicaid or TRICARE, you may continue to use services under those programs. If you have other insurance or HMO coverage, the VA recommends that you should keep that coverage to provide you with options and flexibility in the future.
