Dealing with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can be complicated and confusing, so it’s helpful to know that it’s actually divided into three different departments: Veterans Healthcare Administration (VHA), Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) and VA National Cemeteries.
Today we’re going to define the basic differences between the two VA departments veterans primarily work with. The designations are pretty clear-cut, but while both work together, there are some disparities when it comes to benefits, costs, and criteria for eligibility.
Veterans Benefits Administration
Veterans work with this department when filing claims for monetary compensation, such as service-connected compensation. This department deals with the major veterans benefits include compensation; pension; benefits for survivors; assistance with rehabilitation, employment and education; home loan guarantees; and life insurance.
The Veterans Health Administration
To sum it up neatly, this department deals with medical and mental health care for veterans. This includes preventive care and treatment, outpatient and inpatient services and prescription drugs. Depending on the veteran, it can also handle additional services such as assisted living and dental care.
Eligibility often depends on a veteran’s unique circumstances, determined by decision makers at each local VA healthcare facility. Factors typically evaluated include history with the military, the severity of any service-connected conditions and the nature of the veteran’s discharge.
If you’re a veteran suffering from a service-connected condition, the West Virginia Veterans’ Disability Lawyers of Jan Dils, Attorneys at Law, can help you navigate the VA with confidence and get the benefits you deserve.
You can call us toll-free at 877-526-3455 or use our online contact form to set up your 100% free first consultation.
