The veterans that are covered by the VA are mostly not retirees. Typically, they did 2 to 6 years and then got out. They had the rest of their adult lives to get a job and be covered by medical insurance provided by their employer. After retirement they would be covered by Medicare.
Most of the veterans who use the VA squandered their life.
I believe those who should be eligible for VA care are those who have a service connected disability and retired military veterans.
“The veterans that are covered by the VA are mostly not retirees.”
I learned a lot from my ex-wife’s father. He did 4 years in the Army over 30 years ago. Never saw combat and has no service related disability. Spent his career as a lawyer, and apparently set absolutely nothing aside for retirement. Because he is basically indigent, the VA covers all of his medical care, diabetes, heart condition, etc. There is something seriously wrong with that.
Retired military have life time health coverage, I am from a retired military family and my mom and dad have Tri Care the TriCare is now their supplemental insurance with the Medicare!!!
You are correct. This has been going on for many years.