Returning service member care
VA Syracuse health care provides health care and other benefits to the newest Veterans returning from service, even if you are still on active duty or an activated member of the National Guard or Reserve. Talk to a care coordinator about making use of your health care benefits.
Connect with a care coordinator
Care we provide at VA Syracuse health care
We can help you access service and benefit programs tailored to the needs of returning service members, including:
- Polytrauma care
- Rehabilitation
- Mental health care
- Counseling
- Family benefits counseling
- Referral assistance
Military to VA (M2VA)
We are ready to welcome you as you transition from service member to Veteran. Your Post-9/11 M2VA team will assist you, your family, and caregivers in navigating the VA health care system and support you in achieving your health and wellness goals.
Often when service members leave the military, they find difficulty with sense of identity, financial strain, employment/education barriers, relationship changes, mental/emotional wellness, and physical limitations as a result of their time in the military. Your Post-9/11 M2VA team is trained in addressing the unique needs of reintegrating service members and Post-9/11 era Veterans and will be there to support you. Post-9/11 M2VA team members are ready to assist with what matters most to you—from accessing care and resources to developing personalized goals for your care and navigating benefits.
Getting ready to come to the VA but still active duty? We have VA Liaisons for healthcare.
· VA Liaison Program
What is a VA Liaison? VA Liaisons are nurses and social workers who coordinate the transfer of health care from DoD to VA for service members as they exit the military. VA Liaisons are located at your Department of Defense (DoD) installation to coordinate your health care needs from the military treatment facility (MTF) to a VA health care facility. If there is not a VA Liaison at your installation, there are regional VA Liaisons available to virtually coordinate health care access to VA facilities nationwide.
Whether you need inpatient or outpatient care, VA Liaisons will assist in the transfer of your care at the appropriate time in your recovery and rehabilitation process.
Care we provide at VA Syracuse health care
We can help you access service and benefit programs tailored to the needs of returning service members, including:
· Polytrauma care
· Case Management
· Mental health care
· Family benefits counseling
· Referral assistance
Veterans Integration To Academic Leadership (VITAL)
What is VITAL? Veterans Integration To Academic Leadership (VITAL) is the VA's approach to reaching out to student Veterans to help meet your needs and maximize your potential. The VITAL Initiative is a partnership between VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System and local college and university campuses. We're here to help you navigate your needs and concerns and maximize your unique set of strengths, skills, and life experiences as you develop and translate your interests and talents into the academic setting.
What to expect
· Veteran-centered approach, keeping the Veteran’s well- being and best interests in mind
· Confidentiality of Information (consistent with VA and College/ University policy)
· Prompt response to phone or email inquiries
Student Veteran Direct Care/Referral Services
· Assistance with enrollment and care with Syracuse VA Healthcare System
· Case Management
· Referrals/Scheduling for Primary Care, Mental Health and Telehealth Services
· VA benefits counseling
· Connection to VA affiliates: Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E), etc.
Academic Faculty/Staff
· Education for college/university staff about Military and Veteran culture
· Consultation regarding Veteran- specific issues, including common readjustment concerns that may impact performance and academic success
· Assist with communication between Syracuse VA Healthcare System and college/university staff about Veteran concerns, resources and needs
Vet Centers
Vet Centers are counseling centers that help Veterans readjust after deployment. The Vet Center in Syracuse provides counseling for individuals, groups, married couples, and families. They also provide guidance and referrals for other VA and community resources.