Veterans have earned a range of healthcare benefits — and many never fully use them, either because they are unaware of what they qualify for or find the system difficult to navigate.
This guide breaks down the primary options available to veterans and military families: VA healthcare, CHAMPVA, TRICARE, and additional support programs. Understanding what you have access to is the first step toward using it.
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Scout explains: Veterans Healthcare Resources
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VA Healthcare Eligibility
Most veterans who served on active duty and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable are eligible for VA healthcare. Priority groups (1–8) determine cost of care, with higher priority going to veterans with service-connected disabilities.
To enroll, visit VA.gov/health-care/apply or call 1-877-222-8387. You will need your DD-214. If you cannot find your DD-214, request it through the National Archives at archives.gov/veterans.
VA healthcare covers a wide range of services including preventive care, mental health treatment, substance use disorder treatment, and specialty care.
CHAMPVA: For Veterans' Dependents
CHAMPVA (Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs) provides health benefits for spouses and children of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to service-connected disability, or who died from a service-connected condition.
CHAMPVA is not TRICARE — it serves a different population. Eligible dependents can receive care from any provider who accepts CHAMPVA. The program covers most medical services at 75% of allowable costs after a deductible. Apply through VA.gov/health-care/family-caregiver-benefits/champva/.
TRICARE: For Active Duty and Reserve Families
TRICARE is the healthcare program for active duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and their families. Plans include:
• TRICARE Prime: Managed care option with no deductible for active duty; requires primary care manager referrals. • TRICARE Select: PPO-style; more flexibility but higher cost-sharing. • TRICARE for Life: Supplements Medicare for those 65+ with Medicare Parts A and B.
For specific questions, contact TRICARE at tricare.mil or call your regional TRICARE contractor.
Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs)
Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) provide free assistance to veterans navigating benefits — including healthcare, disability claims, and education. Accredited VSO representatives are trained to help you file claims and appeals at no charge.
Major VSOs include: American Legion, VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars), DAV (Disabled American Veterans), and many others. If you believe you have a service-connected disability that has not been rated or rated too low, a VSO can help you file for a higher rating.
VA Community Care Network (CCN)
The VA Community Care Network allows eligible veterans to receive care from community (non-VA) providers when the VA cannot provide the care needed. This may apply when the VA does not offer a specific service, when wait times are too long, or when you live too far from a VA facility.
If you are VA enrolled, ask your VA care team about Community Care eligibility. This program has expanded significantly in recent years and many veterans qualify without knowing it.
Mental Health and Crisis Resources
Veterans have access to several dedicated mental health resources:
• Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 then press 1, text 838255, or chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net. Available 24/7. • VA Mental Health Services: Available to most enrolled veterans, including treatment for PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. • Vet Centers: Community-based counseling centers offering readjustment counseling, PTSD treatment, and MST counseling.
Reaching out is an act of strength.
This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or financial advice. Always consult qualified professionals for decisions affecting your health and finances.