Health Care Resources for
Veterans
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Specialized Care For Veterans
Veterans of the U.S. military may need specialized care to deal with common health issues as they age. To help these brave men and women, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has established dozens of programs and services exclusively for veterans.
Outside of the VA, many health care organizations focus on the well-being of veterans. While not affiliated with the government, these organizations provide healing and support to those who served in the military.
Health Care and Support Resources
Veterans have a wide range of options when seeking health care. Depending on their needs, they can choose to seek traditional medical help from doctors and medical facilities. There are also specialized treatment facilities for various health conditions, such as cancer and mental illness.
It may be difficult for veterans to find doctors and treatment centers that tailor to their needs specifically. That is where veteran support organizations can be a lifeline. These organizations work with veterans to help them access mental and physical care.
Non-Profit Organizations
Non-profit organizations help connect veterans to mental and physical health care programs, fellow veterans, and additional resources for those who are struggling.
Specialized Programs
Veterans may need specialized help as they work toward recovery. Fortunately, there are many programs designed for specific veteran groups, such as women, African-Americans, or those who have serious conditions such as mesothelioma.
Veteran Support Groups
Support groups allow veterans to work through mental and physical health problems with those who share similar experiences, such as living with PTSD or coping with a disability.
Alcoholics Anonymous
With this 12-step program, veterans can work to successfully recover from alcohol addiction.
Mental Health America
Veterans are at a very high risk of suffering from mental illness. This organization has been active since 1910 and can provide important resources to people who are struggling.
National Alliance on Mental Illness
For over 45 years, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has helped millions affected by mental illness find support.
VA Resources
Outside of standard medical care and support organizations, U.S. veterans are entitled to health care benefits through the VA. Veterans have served their country with honor and dignity, and VA benefits are a way for the government to give back.
The VA offers a wide range of health care resources to help veterans and their families. These resources can assist veterans through nearly every stage of their post-service life. The services a veteran qualifies for will depend on their unique needs.
Health Care
- Assisted living
- Immunizations
- Mental health services
- Some dental care
- Surgeries
- Treatment of illnesses
- Vision care (routine)
- Appointments with regular doctor and specialists
- Emergency care in both VA and non-VA hospitals (non-VA in some situations only)
The VA tailors the covered medical services to each veteran’s specific needs. Because of this, some veterans may still need to see non-VA health care providers depending on their coverage.
VA Health Care
Resources for Veterans
Mental Health Services
Mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are a widespread issue among military veterans. The VA offers medical services to help veterans overcome these specific problems.
Facilities
Veterans can go to VA health centers across the country to receive medical care. These facilities specialize in both general care and veteran-specific issues.
Helpful Personnel
Doctors, specialists, and other medical staff provide medical care to veterans and their families. However, other important VA personnel can also help veterans get the care they need.
Veterans Deserve High-Quality Health Care
Military veterans risked their lives to defend America’s freedoms. They deserve honor, respect, and high-quality medical treatments if they are sick or struggling. Thankfully, the VA allows those who have served in the military to receive care specifically tailored to veterans’ issues. With the Bipartisan Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our PACT Act of 2022, Veterans are close than ever to getting a full array of health and benefits options, whether for burn pits, mesothelioma, or toxic exposure such as Camp Lejeune water contamination.
For the services that the VA does not cover, veterans can seek treatment from traditional health care providers. There are also veteran-centered therapy programs, support groups, and advocacy organizations to help in all aspects of recovery.
If you or someone you love has served in the military — and is now facing mental or physical health issues — these resources can help you get back on your feet.
Author:
The Sokolove Law Content Team is made up of writers, editors, and journalists. We work with case managers and attorneys to keep site information up to date and accurate. Our site has a wealth of resources available for victims of wrongdoing and their families.
Last modified: January 7, 2024
