Veterans (VA) Benefits

In October 1996, Congress passed the Veterans' Health Care Eligibility Reform Act of 1996. This legislation paved the way for the creation of a Medical Benefits Package -- a standard enhanced health benefits plan available to all enrolled veterans. Like other standard health care plans, the Medical Benefits Package emphasizes preventive and primary care, offering a full range of outpatient and inpatient services.

What is a veteran?

The primary factor in determining a veteran's eligibility to receive Veterans' Administration (VA) health care benefits, is "veteran status" which is established by active duty service in the military, naval, or air service and a discharge or release from such service under anything other than dishonorable conditions. In addition, some veterans must have completed 24 continuous months of active military service (there are some exceptions to this). To find out if you qualify, contact the Bureau of Veteran's Affairs at 877-222-VETS (222-8387).

Once you apply for enrollment, your eligibility will be verified. Based on your specific eligibility status, you will be assigned a priority group ranging from 1-8, with 1 being the highest priority for enrollment. Under the Medical Benefits Package, the same services are generally available to all enrolled veterans.

Health care benefits for veterans

Basic Care
Preventive care
Periodic medical exams
Health education, including nutrition education
Maintenance of drug-use profiles, drug monitoring, and drug use education
Mental health and substance abuse preventive services
Outpatient medical, surgical and mental healthcare, including care for substance abuse
Inpatient hospital, medical, surgical and mental health care, including care for substance abuse
Prescription drugs, including over-the-counter drugs and medical and surgical supplies available under the VA national formulary system
Emergency care in VA facilities
Durable medical equipment and prosthetic and orthotic devices, including eyeglasses and hearing aids
Home health services
Respite, hospice, and palliative care
Pregnancy and delivery service, to the extent authorized by law

Enrolling in VA benefits

You can apply for VA health care by completing an application with the VA. These forms may be obtained by visiting, calling or writing any VA health care facility or veterans' benefits office. You can also call toll-free 877-222-VETS (222-8387) or access the online application here.