What is the Medical Benefits Package?

In October 1996, Congress passed Public Law 104-262, the Veterans' Health Care Eligibility Reform Act of 1996. This legislation paved the way for the creation of a Medical Benefits Package - a standard enhanced health benefits plan generally available to all enrolled veterans. Like other standard health care plans, the Medical Benefits Package emphasizes preventive and primary care, offering a full range of outpatient and inpatient services.

VA places a priority on improved veteran satisfaction. Our goal is to ensure the quality of care and service you receive is consistently excellent, in every location, in every program.

What does it cover?

The Medical Benefits Package will generally be provided to all enrolled veterans regardless of your priority group.

Public Law 104-262 calls for VA to provide you hospital care and outpatient care services that are defined as "needed". VA defines "needed" as care or service that will promote, preserve, and restore health. This includes treatment, procedures, supplies, or services. This decision of need will be based on the judgement of your health care provider and in accordance with generally accepted standards of clinical practice.

The following three categories contain a list of health care services that are provided under the Medical Benefits Package, a list of some that are not covered by VA, and a list of other services that are provided under special authority. Click on any of the three categories to display the list of services.

Services Covered Under the Medical Benefits Package   

Services Not Covered Under the Medical Benefits Package   

Services with Limited Coverage