What Is Veterans Affairs (VA) Healthcare?

VA healthcare is a government-funded system that provides medical services to eligible U.S. military veterans. Administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, it includes hospital care, primary and specialty care, mental health services, and prescription drug coverage, often at little to no cost for qualifying veterans.

Who is eligible for VA healthcare?

• Veterans who served in active duty and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
• Eligibility and benefits vary based on factors like service history, disability status, and income level.
• Some veterans qualify for priority groups, which determine access to services and cost-sharing responsibilities.

VA healthcare and Medicare

Many veterans qualify for both VA healthcare and Medicare, and they can use both programs, but coverage works differently:

• VA facilities only accept VA benefits: Medicare does not cover care received at VA hospitals or clinics.
• Medicare covers non-VA providers: If a veteran seeks care outside the VA system, Medicare can be used.
• Prescription drug coverage: Veterans can use VA prescription benefits or enroll in Medicare Part D for broader pharmacy access.
• Dual eligibility: Having both Medicare and VA benefits ensures veterans have coverage in case VA services are unavailable or inconvenient.

How Solace can help

A Solace advocate can help veterans understand how VA benefits work alongside Medicare, determine which program to use for different services, and coordinate care between VA and non-VA providers to prevent coverage gaps.

What to Do Next

Need help navigating VA and Medicare benefits? Find an advocate today.