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Veterans health care (VA health care)

Veterans benefits assistance provides support with Financial Assistance, Records, IDs, and Reporting, and Health Coverage and Care for Veterans.

About this service

The Marin County Veterans Service Office (VSO) helps veterans understand and apply for VA health care benefits.

Medical care, equipment, and care support services are provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs through the Veterans Health Administration (VHA).

The VSO can assist with applications and general guidance but does not provide medical care, approve services, or manage VA health care appointments or benefits.

Who this service is for

This information is for veterans enrolled in or applying for VA health care who have questions about available services and programs.

Eligibility and access to services vary based on:

  • VA health care enrollment and Priority Group
  • Service-connected disability status
  • Clinical determination by VA providers
  • Other eligibility criteria set by the VHA

Each enrolled veteran is assigned a Priority Group, which helps determine access to services and potential costs.

Learn more about priority groups:
VA health care priority groups

Details

Where should I start?

  • Need to enroll in VA health care?
    → See Action Page: Apply for veterans health care benefits
  • Already enrolled and need care, equipment, or support services (for example, hearing aids or home care)?
    → Contact your VA medical provider team or local VA medical center
  • In crisis or need immediate mental health support?
    → Call 988, then press 1
  • Need help applying or understanding benefits?
    → Contact the Marin County VSO

Frequently asked questions

How do I get hearing aids through the VA?

Hearing aids are provided through VHA Audiology.

  • You must be enrolled in VA health care
  • Contact your VA medical center’s Audiology Clinic
  • A VA provider must evaluate and determine medical need

The VHA decides eligibility and issues equipment. Filing a disability claim is not required to receive hearing aids.

If you believe your hearing loss is related to military service, you may also contact the Marin County VSO for assistance with filing a VA disability claim.

How do I get home care or caregiver support?

These services are part of VHA Geriatrics and Extended Care programs.

Learn more:

Geriatrics and Extended Care

Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers

These may include:

  • Homemaker or home aide services
  • Adult day health care
  • Caregiver support programs

Services must be requested and approved through your VA medical provider.

The VSO can provide general information but cannot authorize or coordinate services.

How do I get a Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)?

The VHIC is issued after you are enrolled in VA health care.

To obtain a VHIC:

The VSO does not issue VHIC cards.

How do I get dental care through the VA?

VA dental care is limited and not all veterans qualify.

Eligibility is typically limited to certain categories, such as veterans with a 100% service-connected disability rating or other qualifying conditions.

The VHA determines eligibility. The VSO cannot approve dental services.

Can the VSO help with transportation or travel pay issues?

No. Travel pay and transportation are handled by the VA Beneficiary Travel Office.

This includes:

  • Mileage reimbursement
  • Travel claims
  • Transportation coordination

For questions or issues, contact your VA medical center’s Beneficiary Travel Office directly.

Helpful resources:

Who do I contact for VA medical care, appointments, or issues?

All medical care is managed by the VA medical center where the veteran is enrolled.

Contact:

  • Your VA provider or care team
  • VA Member Services
  • Your local VA medical center

The VSO does not have access to VA medical systems or records.

What is a C&P exam? Is that the same as a VA medical appointment?

No. A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam is part of a VA disability claim—not medical treatment.

  • It is used by the VA to evaluate a claim
  • It may be scheduled at a VHA medical facility or VA contractor location
  • It is not for treatment or ongoing care

The VA or its contractors schedule these exams directly.

If you need to reschedule, contact the number on your exam notice.

The VSO cannot schedule, reschedule, or access C&P exams.

Will the VHA cover a non-VA hospital or emergency room?

If you think your life or health is in danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. You do not need VA approval first.

The VA may cover emergency care at a non-VA facility, but certain requirements must be met, including notifying the VA within 72 hours.

Learn more:
Getting Emergency Care at Non-VA Facilities

You or the provider can report the visit:
📞 844-724-7842

For billing or reimbursement questions:
📞 877-881-7618

What are CalVet Homes (like Yountville)? Is that part of VA health care?

CalVet Homes are state-run residential care facilities that provide long-term housing and care for eligible veterans, spouses, and dependents. They are not part of the federal VA health care system (VHA).

These homes may include:

  • Assisted living
  • Skilled nursing care
  • Memory care

Admission and eligibility are handled through the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet).

The VSO can assist with CalVet Home applications.

Learn more:
CalVet Veteran Homes

Getting help and contacts

VA Health Care Enrollment (VHA)
877-222-8387
(Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–8:00 PM ET)

They can help with:

  • Enrollment status
  • Eligibility questions
  • Updating information

Regional VA medical facilities serving the Bay Area include:

Related VHA resources

Related

Page last updated on May 7, 2026.

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