Veterans Health Administration (VHA)

Introduction

Largest integrated healthcare system in the U.S.
Directed by the Executive-in-Charge office of the Under Secretary for Health
Annual budget: ~$68 billion
Serves over 9 million enrolled veterans
Workforce: >322,000 full-time healthcare professionals and support staff
Facilities: 1,255 healthcare facilities
- 170 VA medical centers
- 1,074 outpatient sites
Largest provider of graduate medical education
Major contributor to medical and scientific research
Community: >73,000 active volunteers, 127,000 health profession trainees, ~15,000 affiliated medical faculty
Mission: Honor America's veterans by providing exceptional healthcare that improves health and well-being

Preventative Care Services
- Health exams (including gender-specific)
- Health and nutrition education
- Immunizations (e.g., flu shot)
- Genetic disease counseling
Inpatient Hospital Services
- Surgeries
- Medical treatments
- Kidney dialysis
- Acute care for severe illnesses/injuries
Specialized Care
- Organ transplants
- Intensive care for mental and physical conditions
Urgent and Emergency Care
- Urgent care for non-life-threatening conditions
- VA-approved walk-in clinics for minor illnesses
Mental Health Services
- PTSD, military sexual trauma, depression, substance use problems
Assisted Living and Home Health Care
- Based on needs, income, and availability
Prescriptions
- VA doctor-approved
Ancillary Services
- Diagnostic tests (e.g., blood work, x-rays)
- Therapy and rehabilitation (physical therapy, vision rehab)
Additional Services
- Prosthetics, audiology, radiation oncology for cancer
- Routine eye exams, possible eyeglasses coverage
- Dental care in certain cases

Abortions and abortion counseling
Cosmetic surgery unless medically necessary
Gender alteration surgery
Health club or spa memberships
Unapproved medicines/medical devices (except in clinical trials or serious cases)
Care provided by non-VA government agencies

Healthcare Systems: Regional networks providing efficient, comprehensive care
- Examples: VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, VA Puget Sound Healthcare System
Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs)
- Facilitate easier access to healthcare
- Common outpatient services closer to home
Community Living Centers (CLCs)
- Skilled nursing facilities for veterans with stable conditions
Domiciliary Care
- Provides care for various medical, psychiatric, and social problems
Vet Centers
- Readjustment counseling for veterans and family
- Available nationwide, including territories
Veterans Integrated Services Network (VISN)
- 18 regional systems to improve local healthcare access