VA health enrollment concerns

You should enroll in VA healthcare immediately to secure comprehensive, long-term specialty care and prosthetic services for your amputation, as this is a distinct benefit from your Tricare coverage and is crucial for continuity. As a 100% P&T veteran, you are in **Priority Group 1** with no copayments for care (see the VA Health Benefits Overview), and enrollment is a procedural requirement per **38 CFR 17.36** to receive VA's "medical benefits package." Critically, the VA provides lifelong prosthetic appliances, limbs, and related rehabilitation services, which are essential post-amputation. While you can continue using Walter Reed for the surgery, enrolling now ensures seamless access to VA's specialized Amputation System of Care and eliminates gaps in future prosthetic needs or complications. Your actionable next step is to **apply for enrollment online via VA.gov, by phone at 877-222-VETS (8387), or in person at a VA medical center**, providing your DD214 and award letter. You can use both systems concurrently, but coordinating care is vital; inform both providers of your dual use. *This information is for educational purposes regarding VA benefits and procedures and is not intended as legal or medical advice; for guidance on your specific situation, consider consulting a Veterans Service Officer.*