If you served in a theater of combat operations after Nov. 11, 1998, and were discharged on or after Jan. 28, 2003 you can receive cost-free medical care for any condition related to your service in theater.
You are also given and access to VA’s full Medical Benefits Package and have special eligibility to enroll in the VA health care system for 5 years from your date of discharge or release.
Each VA medical center has a Transition & Care Management Team ready to welcome returning servicemembers and help coordinate care.
The Transition Patient Advocate (TPA) acts as a personal advocate to help you get the most from the VA healthcare system
The Transition and Care Management Team screens all returning combat veterans for the need for case management services to identify those who may be at risk so VA can intervene early and help.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE VA
Homecoming
Health Care Enrollment: During outprocessing/TAMP you will get a a briefing on VA health care and dental benefits, including assistance in completing the VA application for health care enrollment.
You will receive official notification of your VA enrollment within 2 weeks. During this time, you can get care at any of the VA's 171 VA medical centers. You may also visit a vet center, located in communities across the country.
Reintegration
You may get a call from a VA representative to thank you for your service and help connect you with local VA services and benefits.
Welcome Home Events: Each VA Medical Center provides an annual open house to help welcome home our service members and connect each with benefits and services provided on site.
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