You have made many sacrifices as a veteran, but just because you leave active duty does not mean that you lose all of your health benefits. But what exactly are you qualified for? Do you need help with an old injury, rehabilitation, or alcohol/drug dependence counseling? The following is a summary of what you need to know about your health care.
Overview and Health Programs
The VA is required by law to provide eligible veterans hospital care and outpatient care services that are defined as "needed." VA defines "needed" as care or service that will promote, preserve, and restore health. This includes treatment, procedures, supplies, or services. This decision of need will be based on the judgment of your health care provider and in accordance with generally accepted standards of clinical practice.
There are also health programs you may be eligible for, including treatment for:
- Blindness Rehabilitation
- Post Traumatic Stress
- Traumatic Brain Injury
- Agent Orange Exposure
- Gulf War Syndrome & Related Illnesses
- Radiation Exposure
- HIV/AIDS Treatment
Veteran's Health Care Eligibility
Veterans are eligible for VA programs, as well as dependents in many cases. Final eligibility depends on several factors for each program.
Check out the links below for more information on:
- Health Care Costs
- Health Care Eligibility (and Priority Groups)
- Health Care Enrollment Process
- Medical Benefits Package (includes info on what is and is not covered)
More Details On Specific Veterans Health Care Programs:
- Alcohol/Drug Dependency Treatment
- Blind Veterans Services
- CHAMPVA
- Combat Veteran Healthcare Eligibility
- Online Health Services for Veterans
Where To Find Assistance With Claims Or Diagnostic Process:
- The American Legion
- The Veterans of Foreign Wars
- AMVETS
- Disabled American Veterans
- Other Veteran Service Organizations
Stay on Top of Your Veteran Benefits
Military benefits are always changing. Keep up with everything from pay to health care by subscribing to Military.com, and get access to up-to-date pay charts and more with all latest benefits delivered straight to your inbox.