About the Author
Virgil F. is a Vietnam Era Disabled Veteran who served aboard the aircraft carrier, USS Saratoga. He earned his B.A. Degree from the Univ. of Texas in 1975. Virgil then worked as a Journalist until 1987. He has since worked in state government as a Disabled Veterans Counselor. Virgil received special Veterans Benefits training at the National Veterans Training Institute.
Excerpt. © Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved.
From Chapter 1: DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
PATIENT ENROLLMENT SYSTEM
For most veterans, entry into the VA health-care system starts with enrollment at a VA health-care facility. Once enrolled, a veteran is eligible to receive services without further processing.
VA health-care facilities also provide information on medical care, including readjustment counseling, and examinations for Agent Orange, radiation exposure and ailments incurred from service in the Gulf War.
A veteran may apply for enrollment at any time. Veterans do not have to be enrolled if they:
(1) have a service-connected disability of 50 percent or more;
(2) want care for a compensable disability during the 12-month period following discharge; or
(3) want care for a service-connected disability.