VA Waives $2.5 Million in Copayments for American Indian and Alaska Native Veterans

On February 16, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disclosed that it has either waived or refunded copayments for over 143,000 instances, totaling around $2.5 million, benefiting more than 3,800 American Indian and Alaska Native veterans. This decision follows a policy update last year which eliminated the requirement for these veterans to pay copayments for VA health care services, including urgent care and medications. Furthermore, the VA has been reimbursing copayments made since January 5, 2022, as stated in a recent department announcement.

During a meeting with the National Congress of American Indians on February 13, VA Secretary Denis McDonough highlighted the significance of this exemption, stating it honors the treaties with sovereign nations, addresses healthcare access and disparities, expands healthcare options, and enhances the department's partnerships and trust with these communities.

McDonough urged eligible veterans from these groups to avail themselves of the VA services, noting the department's improved data collection methods now estimate over 60,000 American Indian and Alaska Native veterans are currently enrolled. He also mentioned that in 2023, the department processed over 22,000 claims from these veterans, marking an increase of more than 40% from the previous year. These claims resulted in nearly $70 million in benefits, a 23% increase from 2022.

Carol Scott, associated with the Veterans and Military Law Section of the Federal Bar Association, communicated to the Military Times that the abolition of copayments for these veterans was overdue.

This initiative was a directive from Congress in 2021, aiming to enhance benefits for Native American veterans, as reported by Military Times. Senator Jon Tester, D-Mont., Chairman of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee and a proponent of the legislation, commended the initiative last spring, recognizing it as a crucial measure in guaranteeing the deserved care for those who have served.