VA Health Care Benefits in Texas
VA health care in Texas provides comprehensive medical services to eligible veterans through the Veterans Health Administration. This guide covers 2026 enrollment eligibility, priority groups, covered services, copays, and how to access VA medical care.
Eligibility and Enrollment
Most veterans who served in active military service and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable are eligible for VA health care. Enrollment priority is based on service-connected disabilities, income, and other factors. Veterans with service-connected disabilities, former POWs, Purple Heart recipients, and those with catastrophic disabilities receive the highest priority. Apply online at VA.gov, by phone at 1-877-222-8387, or in person at any VA medical facility. Have your DD-214 and income information ready.
Priority Groups
VA assigns veterans to one of eight priority groups that determine enrollment eligibility and copay requirements. Group 1 includes veterans with 50% or higher service-connected disabilities. Group 2 covers 30-40% disabilities. Group 3 covers 10-20% or former POWs and Purple Heart recipients. Group 4 includes veterans receiving Aid & Attendance. Group 5 covers low-income veterans. Groups 6-8 cover other categories including Gulf War veterans, World War I veterans, and higher-income veterans with no service-connected conditions.
Covered Services
VA health care covers preventive care and screenings, primary care and specialist visits, hospital and surgical care, mental health services including PTSD treatment, prescription medications, diagnostic tests and imaging, physical and occupational therapy, home health and respite care, prosthetics and medical equipment, dental care (for some veterans), vision care and eye exams, audiology and hearing aids, telehealth appointments, and geriatric and long-term care services.
Copays and Costs
Many veterans receive VA care at no cost, especially those with service-connected disabilities rated 50% or higher. Others may have copays based on their priority group and the type of care. Primary care copays range from $0 to $50 per visit. Specialty care copays range from $0 to $75. Inpatient care copays vary. Prescription copays range from $0 to $11 for a 30-day supply. VA copays are generally lower than private insurance costs. Copay exemptions exist for combat veterans within 5 years of discharge.
Finding VA Care
Access VA care through VA Medical Centers (VAMCs), Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs), Vet Centers for readjustment counseling, and Community Care providers through the MISSION Act when VA care is not available within access standards. Use the VA facility locator at VA.gov to find nearby locations. The MISSION Act allows veterans to see community providers if wait times exceed 20 days or drive times exceed 30 minutes for primary care (60 minutes for specialty care).
Need Help?
Finding the right benefits and care options can be complex. Talk to our AI guide for personalized assistance, or explore our other resources to learn more about programs available in Texas.