Free Healthcare for Veterans: What VA Medical Benefits Cover (and What They Don’t)
Jun 27, 2025 • STAFF
Introduction
The VA provides comprehensive medical, mental health, and wellness services to millions of veterans. If you served, you may be eligible for free or low-cost healthcare — even without other insurance.
Need help applying? Use our free checklist to find out what you qualify for.
Who Qualifies for VA Health Care?
You may qualify if you:
- Served active duty and didn’t receive a dishonorable discharge
- Are a combat veteran (post-9/11) — covered for 10 years
- Are low-income or receive VA disability compensation
- Were exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, or toxins
💡 There is no income requirement for most service-connected care.
What Services Are Covered?
- Primary care, urgent care, and emergency services
- Mental health counseling (including PTSD and suicide prevention)
- Addiction treatment
- Prescriptions and lab tests
- Specialty care and surgeries
- Hearing aids and vision services
What’s Not Covered?
- Cosmetic procedures
- Experimental treatments
- Long-term custodial care (unless service-connected)
If you're dealing with PTSD, depression, or other service-related mental health issues, you can also access 24/7 crisis support, housing help, and emergency grants through veteran-specific aid programs.
How to Enroll
- Apply online at VA.gov
- Submit DD-214, income info (if needed), and insurance cards (if any)
- Get assigned to a VA medical center and primary care provider
💡 Veterans can now get urgent care at participating civilian clinics with no copay, under expanded Community Care rules.