From Military To Veteran Health Care

FROM MILITARY TO VETERAN HEALTH CARE

Are you transitioning from service member to Veteran? Women often experience a notable health care culture change after leaving active duty, but VA is here to help make your transition as smooth as possible.

Making the Transition
VA health care can seem like a giant puzzle! Rest assured that we are readily available to assist in piecing together your health care options, such as understanding changes in how you receive your care and the type of care you can receive. As you transition out of the military, it’s important that you become proactive about your health and fully understand your health care options.

There are a number of differences between the Military Health System (MHS) and VA health care but understanding these differences early on your journey will ease your transition. For example, at MHS, your chain of command ensures you meet your health care requirements and may have access to your medical information, but at VA, you are in charge of your care and your medical information is private between you and your care team. At MHS, you may have both a Primary Care Manager (PCM) and a gynecologist to address your health care, while at VA, a Women’s Health Primary Care Provider (WH-PCP) can address both your primary and gender-specific health care.

VA recognizes you have distinct health care needs, both as a woman and due to your military experiences. We also recognize that you may have other health care options as you transition from service—but VA is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, and the only health care system designed around you, the Veteran.

VA Women’s Health Care
VA Women’s Health offers a wide range of personalized, quality health care services, including primary care, maternity care, reproductive health and gynecology, mental wellness, family planning, specialty care, prosthetics, cancer screenings, vaccines, and so much more. VA has also set up a unique women’s health care team structure to ensure that you receive care specifically designed for your unique lifestyle and medical needs.

Additionally, we understand the importance of women Veterans receiving care from staff that understand the health impact of your military service. Our providers and clinical staff are specifically trained to help you feel comfortable and safe at every appointment, in each exam room, and across all VA medical facilities.

Transitioning to VA health care also means gaining access to a dedicated support network focused on coordinating your care and advocating for your needs. In addition to having a WH-PCP, you also gain access to VA’s Women Veteran Program Managers, Maternity Care Coordinators, Mental Health Providers, and LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinators.

Enrollment and Additional Resources
If you served on active duty in the military and were discharged under honorable conditions, you may be eligible for VA health care benefits, including gender-specific care. You can apply for VA health care by phone, by mail, in person, or with the help of a trained professional called an accredited representative. Visit VA’s How to Apply for VA Health Care page to learn more and start the process.

Visit the VA Office of Women’s Health or call 1-855-VA-WOMEN to speak with a real person and get connected to care. Additionally, taking our online, self-paced Women’s Health Transition Training can help you navigate VA women’s health services, benefits, and eligibility. You belong at VA.

Transitioning from military service to Veteran health care represents a significant milestone, but it doesn’t have to be daunting. With VA’s comprehensive support and tailored services, you can navigate this journey with confidence, knowing that your health and well-being are in capable hands.

Getting Started with Women Veterans Health Service
Download your VA Welcome Kit Now! This guide will help you apply for women’s health care, which includes regular checkups, prescriptions, and access to specialists, such as cardiologists, gynecologists, and mental health providers.
women-veterans-qsg.pdf (va.gov)