On October 1, the health insurance exchanges associated with the Affordable Care Act (ACA) went online. Many veterans are now asking how the ACA will impact them.

The short answer for veterans who are already enrolled in VA health care is that it does not impact them at all. Veterans who are enrolled in VA health care do not need to take any action because they already meet the minimum essential coverage requirements of the ACA. The VA has created a website about the ACA, www.va.gov/aca, which informs veterans about the law and what it means for their health care options.

The ACA was created to expand access to affordable health care coverage to all Americans, lower costs, and improve quality and care coordination. Under this law which goes into effect on January 1, 2014, people will have to maintain health coverage that meets a minimum standard called “minimum essential coverage.” This is what is known as the individual mandate. In other words, an individual must have health care coverage, qualify for an exemption, or pay a fee when filing their taxes.

For veterans who are eligible for VA health care, but who have not enrolled, the benefits are tremendous. Eligible veterans can enroll at any time. Additionally, there are no enrollment fees, monthly premiums, or deductibles. Veterans often have no out-of-pocket costs but may have small copayments for health care or prescription drugs. VA medical centers and community based outpatient clinics have 1,700 locations around the country, but veterans who have VA health care can still use other plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, or private insurance.

Veterans should explore VA health care benefits to learn more about their options. If you are a veteran who is eligible for VA health care but are not yet enrolled, you can do so at www.va.gov/healthbenefits/enroll. Veterans may also enroll by visiting their local VA clinic or calling 1-877-222-VETS.