Veterans living in rural America face unique challenges accessing healthcare services, with approximately 4.4 million of the nearly 20 million veterans in the U.S. residing in rural areas, according to the National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Office of Rural Health (ORH). Many of these rural veterans, around 61%, are enrolled in the VA healthcare system, with a majority being 65 years or older and affected by service-related conditions.

Photo: Brooke Gully, Tombigbee National Forest, MS

Similar to other rural residents, some rural veterans encounter difficulties accessing healthcare due to factors such as poverty, homelessness, and substance use disorder, which can worsen their health conditions. Additionally, some veterans may be unaware of the benefits and services available to them through the VA.

Photo: Emily Westergard, Fergus Falls, MN

To address these challenges, VA health facilities have developed partnerships with community health centers, Rural Health Clinics (RHCs), and hospitals in rural areas. They provide care through telehealth services, mobile VA clinics, and Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs). Nonprofit veterans service organizations also play a crucial role in helping veterans access healthcare and essential services. Furthermore, the VA offers programs like the Veteran Community Care Program, which allows rural veterans meeting specific criteria to receive care from local community providers.

Photo: Brooke Gully, Talladega Springs, AL