If you are a veteran of the U.S. armed forces, VA Health Care provides you with the medical benefits you need to stay healthy. 

How do VA Health Care benefits work?

VA Health Care benefits cover preventive and primary health care in any Veterans Administration (VA) health care center in the country. Hospital stays and outpatient treatment are also covered. Other benefits may include eyeglasses, hearing aids, dental services, prosthetic and orthotic devices, mental health programs, and rehabilitation services. 

You may also be able to get help with some non-medical needs, like:

• Transportation: Help paying for trips to and from medical appointments
• Caregiver support: Help for the person who takes care of you
• Ride services: Help getting to and from your appointments

Do VA Health Care benefits cover long-term care?

VA Health Care benefits may include long-term care options like assisted living care, nursing home care, and home health care. You must meet certain requirements to receive these services.

Do VA Health Care benefits cover prescription medications?

Prescription drugs, including over-the-counter drugs and medical and surgical supplies, are covered if they are on the VA’s list.

If you have Medicare, you can get prescription drug assistance through the Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage (Medicare Part D) program. However, if you have VA benefits, you do not have to enroll in Medicare Part D. Since the VA pharmacy benefit is at least as good as Medicare Part D (also called creditable coverage), you are not required to enroll. You will not receive a penalty by Medicare for not enrolling in this coverage when it first begins.

If you choose to enroll in Medicare Part D later, you can do so during the annual open enrollment period without paying higher premiums. Check with the VA for additional information on how its program works with Part D.

Who can get VA Health Care benefits?

You may qualify for VA Health Care if you served in the military (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard) and did not get a dishonorable discharge. 

All eligible veterans get coverage for most health care services, but not everyone can get extra benefits like dental care. What you get depends on:

• Your priority group (based on your service and health needs)
• What your VA doctor, nurse, or provider recommends
• The medical rules for treating your health conditions

Your VA provider can help you understand what care is covered for you.

How do I apply?

You can apply for VA Health Care benefits online through the VA website. To make the process easier, have the following information handy:

• Social Security numbers for you, your spouse (if married), and any dependents
• Health insurance cards for all insurance that covers you, including Medicare, private insurance, or job-based insurance
• Military service details, including any exposure to harmful chemicals or hazards
• A copy of your DD214 or other separation papers
• Income information for you, your spouse, and any dependents
• Expense information for you and your spouse

What happens after I apply?

VA Health Care applications are processed within about a week. You will receive a letter from the VA with their decision. 

How can I get help with my application?

To get help with your VA Health Care application, you can appoint a VA-accredited representative. You can also call the Health Eligibility Center toll-free at 1-877-222-8387 (TTY: 711).