How to Get Home Health Care Through the VA

By J. Johnson

The United States Department of Veterans Affairs, or the VA, offers a Medical Benefits Package to veterans who are enrolled in their program. This package includes inpatient and outpatient care, and some veterans may be eligible for home health care. Once enrolled in the program, you can receive treatment at over 1,400 medical centers all over the country. But before you can enroll, you need to make sure you qualify.

Make sure you're eligible for home health care. All veterans who completed active duty service in the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force or Coast Guard and some Reservists and National Guard members can receive benefits. However, not all veterans can receive home health care benefits. "Returning service members, including Reservists and National Guard members who served on active duty in a theater of combat operations have special eligibility for hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care for five years following discharge from active duty," according to the VA.

Complete the questionnaire at the Department of Veterans Affairs website. See the link located in the Resources section below if you're unsure about whether or not you qualify for the VA Medical Benefits Package.

Gather the information you need to apply for medical benefits. This information includes your current health insurance policy, your paperwork that relates to being separated from military service, and your household income last year. You only need your household income if a portion of your eligibility is based on financial need. Copies of these materials may need to be sent with your application.

Obtain a VA Form 10-10EZ, Application for Health Benefits. You can obtain this form by downloading it from the VA's website or by calling the VA at 877-222-VETS (8387) to request that a copy of a form Form 10-10EZ be mailed to you. A link to download the form is provided in the Resources section below.

Fill out the form completely, and mail or fax it to your local VA Medical Center or Clinic. You'll need to include a copy of any supporting materials with the form. To find your local VA Medical Center or Clinic, click on the link in the Resources section below.

If at any time you need assistance obtaining the form or filling it out, you can contact the VA at 877-222-VETS (8387).

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