Vets disabled from war injuries can receive it at any time. Vets with financial difficulties can also receive some coverage.
Interesting responses that run contrary to public (most of whom are not vets) perception regarding military service. I suspect most think every veteran saw and suffered combat, is eligible for benefits that are being screwed up when the real problem is a big incompetent federal agency (most if not all, are) is trying to provide health services to a somewhat selective population. God save us from Obmamacare.
There are co-pay requirements. Pharmacy costs are a real bargain since they (the VA) are able to buy drugs in bulk. The cost to the vet are uniform, since all drugs are the same price (Co-Pay)They currently run $9.00 each for a thirty day supply.
My experience has mostly been good. I have used two VA Hospitals satisfactorily, and once on an out of town trip I ran out of one of my meds. There was a VA Hosp in that city and I went there, saw a doctor, and got a refill.
I know there are bad things as well, and the nature of the medical problems being treated vary widely.
Hope this helps the discussion. (served on active duty from the mid 50’s until the late 60’s)