I just got a health package from the VA

[HeeBGBz]

It says I am in Priority group 3. Does that mean I get all inclusive health care or just care on my specific disabled body part (knee)? From what I'm reading it looks like the whole shebang, but I don't want to get too excited. I have been trying to get into the VA health system for years.

[MindMover]

1. Better than 5 which is what I have ...

and they can change up or down at any time, depending on your health ...

VA is still the best health care in the world ...

http://www.va.gov/healthbenefits/resources/epublications.asp

[Jumping John]

2. I found this if it helps:

What's the Benefit? If you're in Group 3, you're eligible to receive all the services provided in the Medical Benefits Package.

Treatment is free—except for outpatient medication for conditions that aren't service-connected.

Some Veterans do not have to pay the medication co-payment...

From here:

https://gibill.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/1081/~/health-care-priority-groups

[HeeBGBz]

3. Thanks! That's good to know.

I finally get to have a VA card. Luckily the Biloxi VA is less than a mile from my house.

[James48]

4. It means yes, you are covered.

The only fees MAY be outpatient medication copays.

I got the same book two weeks ago. Priority group 3.

I called and they said yes, I am covered. No just for my issue, but for anything.

... and do I need to make an appointment for anything?

Congrats- you are in.

[James48]

5. by t he way

a few days later I got my first bill for copay.

I owe them $8 for a prescription copay. I'll take it.


You can now use the pharmacy- but only for medicines which a VA doctor proscribes. If you are on anything now, make an appointment for an initial checkup, take all your scripts in with you, and ask the VA doctor to write you VA scripts for those you eel are needed. You can get them through VA now for the $8 copay, provided the VA doctor is who proscribes them.

[HeeBGBz]

6. Thanks for letting me know

I have to go in and get my card tomorrow or tuesday.

[Victor_c3]

7. woohoo!

You're a messed up vet like me! (I hope you can pick up on my semi-sarcastic attempt at humor - it is hard to convey tone on the internet.)

The VA has been nothing but wonderful to me. I'm greatful for the help that I get from them. I'm not even kidding when I say this. I'd probably be dead or homeless right now without the assistance I get.

Make sure you take advantage of everything they have to offer. You earned it!

[unhappycamper]

8. A friend of mine works for the VA.

I'll tell him about this thread.

Good Luck!

[HeeBGBz]

9. I tried to get my card today

The guy at the info office told me I was listed in the system as "not a veteran" so I had to go back home and get all my stuff (should have known to do that in the first place).

Then when I got back, I went to the eligability office and they were gone with a sign that said the Photo machine wasn't working today. I will try again on another day. Luckily I only live about a mile or two away.

[pinboy3niner]

10. Good luck

VA health care is consistently rated as good or better than any health care in the US.

You'll get one of those new red-white-and-blue flag ID cards--hang onto it.

I hope you're located fairly close to your VA hospital, because I'd be pissed off if I had to make a long trip in for nothing.