Census indicates that 7% of the American population – some 18 million people – in 2018 were veterans. They have served in the armed forces, fought for their country, and are suffering from the aftermaths of wars! Studies have shown that more than a million military veterans live in poverty, and thousands are disabled. What are some health benefits for veterans?
Today, the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) operates health-related programs for former soldiers. You can gain coverage for several health benefits by qualifying for VA health benefits. You just have to check your eligibility and obtain a medical package reserved for veterans. Let’s learn more about the health benefits military affiliates can enjoy today.
When are you not eligible?
Don’t forget that every military veteran isn’t eligible for these benefits. For instance, applicants must’ve served in the active military to become qualified for receiving VA health benefits today. Moreover, there aren’t health benefits for those who received a dishonorable discharge from active duty. Such a release doesn’t strip away the title of “military veteran” from you, but you won’t qualify for health benefits. Also, it would help if you inspected the below-mentioned paragraph about eligibility before you decide to apply now.
What’s covered for you?
Which health services are covered for you under VA benefits? These health benefits often include domestic healthcare, preventive caregiving, outpatient surgery, and prescription medications. There are several other health services for which you should study their website. Moreover, we present the “benefit overview” for mesothelioma patients here. It’s a rare form of cancer, often caused by asbestos exposure. Many military veterans suffer from this ailment. Some veterans’ families may receive financial payouts worth $3,500 for their suffering. So, VA benefits can help those veterans who suffered from asbestos exposure during their military service. Now, let’s review some general benefits here too:
- Urgent healthcare: These services deal with injuries/diseases that require immediate treatment but aren’t life-threatening.
- Hospice services: You can have a variety of medical treatments along with other facilities such as dialysis, surgeries, and even organ transplants.
- Preventive caregiving services: They also include health education/examination and gender-specific health exams. Moreover, they provide counseling on genetic disorders and immunization against infectious ailments.
Mental health services
We’ve dedicated an entire subheading to the mental health benefits offered by these programs. It was estimated in 2016 that some 500,000 American soldiers serving in Iraq/Afghanistan over the past thirteen years had been diagnosed with PTSD. Also, many former soldiers have depression and different mental disorders. That’s why VA health benefits are offered to these vulnerable military veterans. Hence, veterans suffering from mental health problems shouldn’t neglect the importance of VA health benefits. Several mental health facilities are available to you if you’re deemed eligible to receive these benefits. Veterans with PTSD, drug abuse, and other problems can find help in VA-managed facilities.
How do you apply?
Serving in active air, naval, or military services makes you eligible to receive VA health benefits. You can now apply online by visiting the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) website. However, you can visit your nearest VA center (search for one on Google Maps) or simply call (855) 964-2298. A military veteran shouldn’t apply before learning the process of filing a request to obtain health benefits. The website mentioned above explains the process properly, but here’s a summary of how to apply:
- Bring your papers such as DD-214 that prove your discharge.
- Inform the authorities of your healthcare insurance information.
- Provide your financial information, such as the annual income for yourself, your spouse, and any dependent children.
- After you’ve been enrolled, the authorities will process your application before verifying your eligibility.
- After you’ve been deemed eligible, you shall receive a notification for your priority group. Your priority (1-8) shall depend on several factors.
Reasons for applying for VA benefits
We’ve explained what’s covered under VA health benefits. These benefits may differ based on what you medically require. Even those military veterans who aren’t suffering from anything right now must apply if they need these health benefits.
Since the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) will offer world-class health services cost-effectively to deserving former soldiers. Also, you may choose one location for regular caregiving. Here are some advantages of applying for VA health benefits in 2022:
- Your priority group may change one day due to ever-changing circumstances.
- Combat veterans have some additional health services available to them regardless of disability.
- Eligibility for VA benefits means you’re covered for Affordable Care, so additional insurance isn’t required.
- However, you can choose to keep your insurance, such as Medicare, after being selected for VA benefits.
- Most veterans receive cost-free health services. However, others may have to pay some copays for their benefits in moderate amounts.
Conclusion
Today, the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) operates one of the largest healthcare systems located in the USA. Running 1,200+ caregiving facilities, this department helps over 9 million veterans by providing the required health benefits. However, more than a million former soldiers remain unfamiliar with these services. So, we’re writing down these words to motivate more military veterans to apply and get the benefits they deserve. We’ve explained how to apply and what’s covered under these benefits.
Military veterans can receive mostly cost-free health services if they’re deemed eligible for VA benefits. For instance, veterans with mesothelioma can receive compensation for their suffering. Moreover, your mental health problems are also covered under these health benefits, such as PTSD and depression. We believe that applying for VA health benefits can allow former soldiers to obtain the treatment they need for their mental/physical health issues. So, check your eligibility now. Go online and apply.
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