Veteran Healthcare: Your Options Explained
The VA operates the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States, serving over 9 million enrolled veterans through 171 medical centers, over 1,100 outpatient sites, and a growing network of community care providers. Whether you need primary care, specialty treatment, mental health services, or emergency care, understanding your options is critical. This guide covers enrollment, facilities, services, and the community care program.
VA Healthcare Enrollment
Most veterans who served 24 continuous months of active duty and received a discharge other than dishonorable are eligible for VA healthcare. Apply online at VA.gov/health-care/apply, call 1-877-222-8387, or visit any VA facility. Enrollment priority is based on service-connected disabilities, income, and other factors. There is no enrollment fee for veterans in priority groups 1-5.
VA Medical Centers & Clinics
The VA operates medical centers in every state plus community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs) for primary care and mental health services closer to where veterans live. Many medical centers provide comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services including surgery, rehabilitation, and specialty care. Vet Centers provide readjustment counseling in community settings.
Mental Health Services
VA mental health services include individual therapy, group therapy, PTSD-specific treatments (CPT, Prolonged Exposure, EMDR), substance use disorder treatment, medication management, and crisis intervention. Telehealth mental health appointments are widely available. The Veterans Crisis Line (988, press 1) is available 24/7 for veterans in crisis.
Community Care (MISSION Act)
The VA MISSION Act allows eligible veterans to receive care from community providers when the VA cannot provide timely access. Eligibility criteria include wait times exceeding 20 days for primary care or 28 days for specialty care, or when the nearest VA facility is more than 30 minutes away. Your VA primary care team can authorize community care referrals.
Prescription Medications
VA prescription coverage includes a comprehensive formulary with copays based on priority group. Many veterans pay $0 for medications related to service-connected conditions. The VA Mail Order Pharmacy delivers prescriptions directly to your home. Emergency prescription refills are available at VA pharmacies nationwide.
Dental & Vision Care
VA dental care eligibility is more limited than medical care. Veterans with service-connected dental conditions, 100% disability rating, former POWs, and those enrolled in certain VA programs receive comprehensive dental care. VA vision care is available to enrolled veterans as part of their medical benefits package.
Healthcare Guides by State
Select a state to find specific healthcare resources and programs for veterans.