CHAMPUS beneficiaries lose that coverage when they become eligible for Medicare Part
A (except for dependents of active-duty personnel). They should, therefore, be cautious
about terminating SMI unless they have received definite information from the Department
of Defense about not needing SMI.
The CHAMPVA program, while administered by the VA, is not for veterans. CHAMPVA coverage
is for the spouse, surviving spouse, and children of certain veterans. CHAMPVA beneficiaries
also lose coverage under that program upon becoming eligible for Part A. These people
should also be cautious about terminating SMI and should not do so without contacting
the VA.