VA Health Benefits Information

The VA provides health care services for military service members and some family members of veterans on a free or low-cost basis. According to the VA, their health care system serves more than 8.5 million veterans each year at over 1,700 sites.

At Vets National Advocates we believe that getting VA healthcare information shouldn’t have to be hard. If you need help finding resources, we’re here to help.

VA Healthcare Benefits

The VA provides a full range of health benefits, including in-patient and out-patient treatment, preventative care, dental care, and vision care. They also maintain multiple support resources for veterans, their families, and other caregivers. These resources include support for everything from PTSD to blindness to smoking cessation.

Most veterans will qualify for free health care services, however, some may be required to pay a co-pay for treatment of non-service-related conditions. Furthermore, having additional insurance coverage can help veterans and their families reduce or eliminate having a co-pay.

Eligibility Requirements

Veterans are eligible for these benefits if they meet certain minimum duty requirements, and did not receive a dishonorable discharge. Minimum requirements maintain that veterans must have enlisted after Sept. 7, 1980 or entered active duty after Oct. 16, 1981 and must have served 24 continuous months or the full period for which they were called to active duty. The minimum duty requirements do not apply to veterans who were discharged for a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty, discharged for a hardship, or to those who served before 1980.

Additionally, some veterans have enhanced eligibility if they meet certain conditions, such as if they have been awarded a Purple Heart or a Medal of Honor, are disabled, or are a former Prisoner of War. Enhanced eligibility veterans will have their application processed faster by the VA.

Family members of veterans may also be eligible for health benefits, the VA offers the following programs:

• Civilian Health and Medical Program of the VA (CHAMPVA)
• Spina Bifida Healthcare Program
• Children of Women Vietnam Veterans
• Caregiver Program

CHAMPVA is the more comprehensive program offering coverage to the spouse or (widow(er)) and the dependent children of a qualifying sponsor who is/was rated permanent and totally disabled, who died due to a service-connected disability or whose dependents are eligible for the Department of Defense TRICARE benefits.

Applying for Benefits

Veterans can apply for health benefits in person, over the telephone, by mail, or online.  Visit www.va.gov/HEALTHBENEFITS to apply online.

Assistance is available over the phone and online for those who are having problems applying for benefits.

Veterans can also view their VA medical records with My HealtheVet, a voluntary online service that tracks your medical conditions and test results.

Contact Vets National Advocates

Taking advantages of these programs can help veterans and their families receive the health care they need. If you have been denied veterans benefits, our advocates can help you fight for your right to fair and just compensation after you have served and protected our country.

Need help with a disability claim or finding more VA healthcare resources?
Contact us online now or call 1 877-777-4021 to connect with one of our veterans rights advocates today.