Veterans Health Care: Understanding Medical Assistance & Benefits

Most veterans are eligible for medical assistance and health care through the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Many of the benefits are free or low-cost. To receive assistance, veterans must apply for the services through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Eligibility

• Medical assistance is available to most veterans. Health-care coverage depends on disability, income thresholds, length of service and discharge facts. Veterans discharged from the military dishonorably are usually ineligible.

Benefit Types

• Health benefits may include preventative care, medical and surgical treatment, mental health care, substance abuse programs, chiropractic services and prescription assistance. Dental care eligibility varies and may be limited for some veterans.

Cost

• The VA determines coverage and cost on a "priority group" basis. Individuals in higher-priority groups include disabled veterans, former POWs and individuals in lower income brackets.

Facilities

• The VHA has hospitals and clinics throughout the United States. Some benefits are available at little or no cost when a veteran uses a VHA-approved health-care facility. Veterans who receive medical services out of the VHA health-care system may need to pay for some services.

TRICARE

• TRICARE is a health-care program offered through the U.S. Defense Department. The program provides low-cost health care for active and retired military members and their families.