The VA is required to provide necessary medical care to veterans to restore and maintain their health. Veterans are generally eligible if they served for two continuous years (if their service started after 1980) and were discharged from active duty under conditions other than dishonorable. Veterans may be eligible for free or reduced cost stays in a VA nursing home as well. In addition, health care benefits are available for the children and wives (or husbands) of veterans.
Veterans' Eligibility for VA Health Care
Most veterans who served on active duty are eligible for VA health care, but priority for benefits depends on disability and other factors.
Veterans Eligibility for VA Nursing Home Care
The VA may pay all or part of the nursing home costs for disabled and elderly veterans.
Getting Disability Compensation for Injuries Caused at a VA Health Care Facility
A veteran injured in a VA facility can either pursue disability compensation through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and/or file an administrative claim for damages under the Federal Torts
When a Veteran Is Injured by the VA: The Federal Torts Claims Act
When you are injured by a VA doctor or other employee of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), you have two legal remedies available to you.
CHAMPVA Benefits for Disabled Veterans' Spouses and Children
Health care and educational benefits are available to spouses and children of veterans who are totally and permanently disabled.
Nolo's book covers veterans disability benefits, VA health care, Social Security disability, Medicare, and Medicaid.