In fact I am correct as Owen pointed out in post below.
ALL veterans who honorably complete their service are eligible to receive VA care. NOT free which is may what you think should happen. Someone who serves an enlistment or 2 should not expect free ins.
OTOH does the VA drag its’feet? Absolutely. No more than any Ins company.
You are correct about today’s qualifications for coverage for those who served from 1980 or later.(see in link below)
It used to be “free” as long as you served, I think, > than 180 days.
I think the move to priority groups began under Pres. GHW Bush.
The legislation was eventually signed by Pres. Clinton in 1996.
decent info here(Not sure how current it is) https://www.veteransaidbenefit.org/va_healthcare_system.htm
The funding of VA also changed.(also noted at the link above)
Back in the day, group health insurance would not cover treatment by the V.A.
Today, V.A. is considered a secondary payer.
They will go after any group insurance and I think Medicare first.
anecdotally
I went to the VA shortly after I got out(1971) and promised never again. Treated like a number in a meat market.
That changed when they sent me notice of hearing aids in 2010.
My doctor closed his practice and I decided to have V.A. as my health care provider.
I signed up for VA in 2012. Got the hearing aids.
The treatment of and the deference to the veteran was and is way different than it was in 1971.
It took approx. a little over 1 month to be approved for my disability. Once approved, the disability becomes effective back to the filing date.
They have been great. Hines, Il uses Loyola Medical personnel. I think the standard of care is outstanding.
I can’t say enough about them today.