Native American veterans save millions after VA waives copayments

The Department of Veterans Affairs announced Tuesday it exempted or reimbursed more than 143,000 copayments totaling approximately $2.5 million for more than 3,800 eligible American Indian and Alaska Native veterans.

The recent move comes after a policy change last year resulted in eligible members of the demographic no longer being required to make copayments for VA health care, urgent care or prescriptions. Under the policy, VA also reimburses for copayments paid on or after Jan. 5, 2022, according to a department release.

“This exemption honors our treaties with sovereign nations. It addresses health care access and disparities. It provides more health care options. And it builds on our work to strengthen our partnerships and trust,” Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough said during a Feb. 13 meeting of the National Congress of American Indians.