Copayments for Care

Veterans who are not entitled to cost-free care for a particular kind of health care may receive VA health care if they pay a copayment. Care for these veterans is provided only if resources and space are available. Historically, it has been rare for the VA to deny care to veterans due to a shortage of resources.

The copayment for VA care is usually much less than the cost of private care. A veteran who has a choice between obtaining VA care for a cost or private care not covered by insurance will save money by choosing VA care. The copayment a veteran will owe depends on the type of health care received, such as hospital care, outpatient care, extended care, or pharmacy services.