OEF/OIF Program Fargo VAMC

By Deb Kunkel, OEF/OIF Program Manager

 

Am I eligible for VA healthcare?

 

This is a question I often hear.  I urge all veterans to check their enrollment and eligibility. We are happy to help. You can also check with your local county veteran service officer as well!

 

For five years after their discharge, combat veterans have special access to VA healthcare, event those who have no service-connected illness.  Veterans can become "grandfathered" for future access by enrolling with VA during this period.  This covers not only regular active-duty personnel who served in Iraq or Afghanistan, but also Reserve or National Guard members who served in the combat theaters.  Veterans with service-related injuries or illnesses always have access to VA care for the treatment of their service disabilities without any time limit, as do lower-income veterans.  VA offers care through more then 1,400 hospitals, outpatient clinics, nursing homes and counseling centers.

 

The VA has an ambitious outreach program to ensure separating combat veterans know about these benefits.  If you have any questions about OEF/OIF enrollment or eligibility in the VA healthcare system, please feel free to contact me at: (701) 239-3787 or 1-800-410-9723 ext. 9-4311.

 

In June 2007 the Fargo VA Medical Center started the Post Deployment Clinic. This Clinic was designed for veterans who have returned from a deployment.  This Clinic provides a base line medical exam and follow-up on any health issue/concern that occurred or was aggravated during a deployment or since the soldier's return.  The exam consists of a nurse, social work and medical appointment.  There are also mental health services available right in the clinic as well.  To schedule an appointment, please contact: Deb Kunkel, OEF/OIF Program Manager @ 701-239-3787.