Tutorial

"Help me get a handle on where to start. What are the key websites I should be using to apply, access, and further my VA healthcare and benefits."   (link)

"Walk me through the first steps I should take as a new VA patient. I want to understand how to get oriented with the Veterans Health Administration, how the care system works, and how to get connected with a primary care provider who understands my background."    (link)

"Help me understand how the VA decides who qualifies for what. Tell me about priority groups and how it effects things like copays, eligibility, and the kind of services I can expect to receive."    (link)

“Help me figure out what health screenings I should be getting based on my age, gender, and service history. I haven’t had a checkup in a while and want to make sure I’m staying ahead of any issues.”    (link)

"Clarify what’s required — and what’s not. I’d like to understand whether services like dental, vision, or hearing care depend on a specific disability rating, or if there’s a path for Veterans to receive those services regardless of a certain rating."    (link)

"I was deployed and saw some stuff.  It’s starting to catch up with me. I’ve never talked about what I saw or did, but it’s affecting how I sleep, how I feel, and how I show up for the people I care about. Walk me through how the VA might actually be able to help."    (link)

"Something happened to me in the military, and I’ve never told a soul. It still follows me — in my body, in my thoughts, in my quiet moments. I had to do something that I disagree with morally, just to stay alive."     (link)

"I’ve lost more friends after the uniform than in combat. Point me toward someone I can talk to — someone who actually gets the weight we carry after war."      (link)

"I’ve been holding it together for years, but it’s starting to spill over at home. I don’t know if I’m ready for therapy, but I need something that doesn’t feel clinical or invasive. Show me what the VA offers that meets me where I am."    (link)

"I can’t stop replaying what happened on my last deployment. I’ve never said it out loud. I don’t even know where to begin. Help me understand how to talk about it — and who I can trust with those first words."    (link)

"Vet Centers are closer to me than the VA is. Can I just get my therapy there instead?     (link)

"I am a survivor of MST. I don't want to go to the VA for mental health counseling, so can I just call my local Vet Center to be seen there?"    (link)

"I'm on active duty/ a reservist/ a veteran. I've heard a lot of different answers to this, so who can actually receive Vet Center services?"    (link)

"I've recently lost a loved one and am experiencing significant grief as a result. I need to speak with someone near me that can support me right now."    (link)

"I’ve heard Vet Centers were formed to feel more like community than clinic. What kinds of support groups or counseling do they offer — and what should I expect if I show up?"    (link)

"I served in a combat zone and I’m trying to make sense of what that means in the VA. Help me understand how the PACT Act applies to my service. What is enhanced eligibility? Do I need to prove a specific toxic exposure to get care or compensation?"    (link)

"I want to know more about associated PACT Act symptoms. Walk me through the list of conditions that are now considered presumptive — and help me see if any of them connect to my own medical history or deployments."    (link)

"Talk me through how to get screened for toxic exposure. I want to know if I can get a checkup or evaluation, and whether issues I’m dealing with — like migraines, sleep problems, or chronic fatigue — might be related and covered under the PACT Act."    (link)

"Help me think ahead. Even though I feel healthy now, I know I was exposed to some pretty bad stuff. Should I still file a claim because of deadlines or take steps now for health care to protect myself down the line?"    (link)

“I’ve got health issues I think are related to burn pits or toxic exposure. Can you show me how to be evaluated for potential exposures without leaving my home?"    (link)

“Walk me through what VA offers for women Veterans like me. I want to know what services are out there beyond just primary care.”    (link)

“What kind of reproductive health care does the VA cover? Can I get things like birth control, annual exams, or OB/GYN visits through the VA?”    (link)

“I’m pregnant—can the VA help me with prenatal care or delivery? I heard something about Maternity Care Coordinators, but I don’t know what they do.”    (link)

“The VA says sexual health is an important part of your health care. Help me learn how I can speak with someone at the VA to discuss my own sexual health needs.”   (link)

"I or someone I know has been experiencing Intimate Partner Violence. Where do I go and what do I say to get some help?"    (link)

"I’ve spent years just reacting to symptoms — not really thinking about the bigger picture. Walk me through what the Whole Health program actually is and how it helps Veterans take back control of their well-being, not just manage symptoms."    (link)
 

"I’m open to something different — especially if it helps me reconnect with who I am outside of my diagnoses. Guide me through how Whole Health uses personal health planning and Veteran-driven goals to shape my life."    (link)

"I’ve tried traditional treatment and it’s only taken me so far. Show me what other options the VA offers through Whole Health — things like acupuncture, nutrition, movement, or peer-led groups — and how I can explore them without starting over from scratch."    (link)
 

"I need something that helps with chronic pain but doesn’t rely on more meds. Walk me through the kinds of pain management options Whole Health offers — especially any that are hands-on, non-opioid, or focused on long-term healing."    (link)

"I’ve heard other Veterans talk about Whole Health Coaches — what do they actually do? Help me understand how working with a coach can support my journey, whether I’m focused on mental health, weight, purpose, or just getting unstuck."    (link)

"I have a medical need but can't tell if the VA would consider it an emergency or not."    (link)

"Help me understand the difference between emergency care and urgent care through the VA. I want to know how the system defines each, what qualifies, and how that affects where I go and whether the VA will cover it."    (link)

"Tell me what steps I need to take after receiving emergency care outside the VA. I’ve heard I need to notify someone — explain who, when, and how to do it right, so I don’t get a bill later."     (link)
 

"Help me make sense of VA's in-network Urgent Care benefit. You said I can walk into a local urgent care clinic that’s in the VA’s network — explain how that works, and if I share my zip code, help me find the closest option near me."    (link)

"So if I have a minor but urgent medical need, what does the VA want me to do? Go to my primary care doctor or find an in-network community urgent care?"    (link)

“Walk me through how the VA screens for mild, moderate, and severe TBI.  Explain how post-concussion syndrome is different from other TBIs.”   (link)

“Help me understand the common signs of a TBI that might show up years after service. Tell me what I should do if I’m noticing memory problems, headaches, or mood changes after an injury in service.”      (link)
 

“Tell me how the VA approaches managing TBI-related sleep problems, depression, or anxiety.  Help me learn what rehab services and therapies are available for Veterans with TBI at my VA.”     (link)

"Explain how the VA rates TBIs and what the different rating levels mean. Tell me about the link between TBI and other potentially related conditions can affects claims.”    (link)

“Help me understand how to get adaptive equipment or smart home devices for living with a TBI. Guide me through caregiver resources if my spouse is helping manage my TBI care.”    (link)

“Walk me through how to contact and request a case manager through the M2VA program. I hear they can facilitate a smooth military to VA transition (M2VA).”    (link)

“My health needs are getting more complicated as I get older. What case management options does the VA offer for older Veterans or those who need long-term care planning?”    (link)

“Show me how to ask for a VA case manager. I don’t know if I’m supposed to wait for someone to assign one or if I have to request it myself.”    (link)

“Can you help me connect with a HUD-VASH case manager? I need support with housing, but also someone who can help coordinate other parts of my life while I get back on track.”    (link)

“I’m working with a few different VA teams, but it’s all starting to feel disconnected. Can you help me figure out how a case manager could help keep it all together?”

“Tell me about the vaccines and preventative care offered through the VA’s Infectious Disease Department.”

“Guide me through what to expect during an appointment with an infectious disease specialist at the VA. Explain how the VA manages chronic infectious diseases like HIV or hepatitis C.”

“Walk me through how the VA handles infection control during hospital stays or surgeries.”

“Help me find out how to get tested for travel-related illnesses before or after leaving the country.”

“Help me understand what evidence I need to link an infectious disease I got in service to a VA disability claim.  Tell me about secondary conditions caused by service-connected infections and how they can be claimed.”

"Break down VA Community Care for me. My doctor mentioned it, but I want to understand what it really means before I commit. Who qualifies, how it works, where can I find in-network providers, and what I should expect once my consult has been submitted and approved."    (link)

“I’ve heard horror stories about billing with VA Community Care. Can you explain how pre-authorization works and what I need to do to make sure I’m not stuck with a surprise bill?”    (link)

"Help me understand the VA Community Care process in detail. Can I just make an appointment with a private provider and have the VA pay for it? Walk me through what the rules are and how I can stay within the system without getting stuck with the bill.”       (link)

“Walk me through how I can get referred to a community provider. I’ve been waiting a long time for a VA appointment, and I’d like to know if I qualify for care outside the VA."    (link)

“I need to see a non-VA specialist that the VA doesn’t offer locally. Help me find a in-network civilian provider that I can learn more about online so that when the VA asks me if I have a preferred provider, I can request a specific person that I like."    (link)

“I’m not religious, but I’ve heard VA chaplains are there for more than just prayer. Can you walk me through what they actually do and how they can help me?”    (link)

“There are things from my service that still weigh on me. Can you help me connect with someone who understands moral injury and can listen without judgment?”    (link)

“I’m spiritual but not part of any religion. Can I still talk to a VA chaplain without being preached to?”    (link)

“I’m going through a big life change—retirement, health issues, and adjusting to civilian life. Can I talk to a chaplain for personal support and guidance?”    (link)

“I want to talk about end-of-life decisions and spiritual peace of mind. Can you help me connect with a VA chaplain for this kind of conversation?”    (link)

“I just opened a new claim, but I don’t have a lot of records. Can you help me understand what counts as evidence and what are ways I can create new documentation?”    (link)

“What is the difference between a standard claim and a Fully Developed Claim? Why would I choose one over another?”    (link)

"Act like a subject matter expert teaching a masterclass about VA disability claims. Spare no detail when laying out what the ideal application would look like for me. Ask me questions so we can create a roadmap of my career."    (link)

"I want to make sure I say the right things during my C&P exam. Walk me through how to talk about my symptoms in a way that’s clear, honest, and helps the examiner fully understand my situation."    (link)

"Help me make connections between my service and my health. I deployed but didn’t have a direct injury in combat — explain what kinds of long-term or delayed-onset conditions I should be watching for based on my duties and locations. Then show me how that might connect to benefits or care through the VA."

“I’m about to start school using my GI Bill but don’t know which program to choose. Can Chapter 36 PCPG (Personalized Career Planning and Guidance) help with picking the right degree for my goals?”    (link)

“I have a service-connected disability and heard I might qualify for extra support through something called VR&E. Help me figure out if Chapter 31 is right for me and what are the advantages.”    (link)

“My parent/spouse is a disabled Veteran, and someone mentioned I might qualify for one of VA's family education programs. Can you ask me questions to see if I qualify for any of them?”    (link)

“I’m about to start school using my GI Bill but don’t know which program to choose. Can Chapter 36 PCPG (Personalized Career Planning and Guidance) help with picking the right degree for my goals?”    (link)

“I want to transfer my GI Bill to my spouse or child. What are the requirements and steps to do that while I’m still in service or after separation?”    (link)

“I feel kind of isolated. Can you help me find a local or online support group where I can talk with other Veterans who get it?”    (link)

“I’d like to connect with other Veterans in a more informal setting. Can you help me find a local Vet Center and learn what they offer?”     (link)

“I’ve heard the VA is doing more to build combat loneliness, isolation, and disconnection. What specifically are they doing to enhance my connection and improve resource access for Veterans everywhere?”    (link)

“I miss being active and part of a team. Can you help me find a local VA or community adaptive sports or rec therapy program?”    (link)

“It's difficult for me to attend activities out, but I still want to. Can you help me find VA services or devices that can assist me and enhance my quality of life?”    (link)

“Help me understand what kinds of services the VA offers for older Veterans like me. I’m starting to need more help with daily life and medical care.”    (link)

“Can you walk me through how VA long-term care works? I want to know about nursing homes, assisted living, and if the VA helps cover the cost.”    (link)

“My mobility isn’t what it used to be. Can I get a VA doctor or nurse to visit me at home through Home Based Primary Care?”    (link)

“I’m losing some independence because of hearing and vision issues. Can the VA help with glasses, hearing aids, or mobility devices?”    (link)

“I want to make sure my end-of-life care plan is in place and my wishes are honored. Can the VA help with advance directives and planning?”    (link)

"I’m interested in continuing my federal service and serving Veterans at the VA. Walk me through the first steps to finding a job in the VA — especially if I could use a little guidance."    (link)

"Help me translate what I did in the military into something employers understand. I want to show up strong on paper and in interviews, but I need help connecting my service to civilian job roles."    (link)

"I’ve heard about Veteran hiring preferences and special programs — can you break those down for me in the U.S. federal government?    (link)

"I want to know what career and employment resources exist through the VA. What about educational guidance, career counseling, or Veteran small businesses?"    (link)

"I want more than just a job — I want a purpose again. Guide me through finding work that aligns with my values, skills, and what I care about now that I’ve transitioned out of the military."     (link)     (link)

“Walk me through how the VA Home Loan works. I’m thinking about buying my first home but don’t know where to begin or what the VA actually offers.”    (link)

“Help me get my Certificate of Eligibility for a VA home loan. I’m not sure if I qualify or how to get the paperwork started.”    (link)

“I have a service-connected disability—can you explain what extra programs or fee waivers I might qualify for with a VA home loan?”    (link)

“I’ve used a VA loan before. Can I use it again to buy another home? Tell me more about the VA Home Loan Guaranty Buyer's Guide.”    (link)

“My credit isn’t perfect. Can you help me understand what support I can get from the VA to help avoid foreclosure?”    (link)

"I'm sleeping in my car right now and need help fast. Walk me through how the VA can help me find a safe place to stay tonight — even if it’s just temporary — and what steps I need to take right now."    (link)

"Help me understand what’s required to get VA housing support. Do I need a disability rating or meet specific income rules? I want to know if there's a path forward based on where I’m at right now."     (link)

"I'm working but don't make enough to cover full rent and all of my bills. Are there programs for working Veterans like me that might need a little guidance from a professional? How can I apply to see if I qualify for a VASH voucher?"    (link)

"I’m working but still struggling to find a stable place to live. Explain whether having a job affects my eligibility for help, and what support might still be available for Veterans like me who are barely making ends meet."    (link)

"I’m not comfortable staying in a shelter. Talk to me about what other options the VA might offer — whether that’s transitional housing, hotel vouchers, or something more private that still keeps me safe and off the street."    (link)

"Help me get my hands on the right records. Walk me through how to request my DoD service records, VA medical records, or even private treatment documentation — and explain which ones actually matter most when the VA is reviewing my claims or care."    (link)

"Show me how to take full advantage of my education benefits. I want to go back to school, but I need help understanding how to use my GI Bill, what benefits I still have left, and how to make the most of what I’ve earned."    (link)

"Help me create a clear picture of how my conditions affect me day to day. I want to understand the best way to document the severity of my symptoms — not just for claims, but for treatment, tracking, and getting the care I need."    (link)

"Who do I go to to have a medical form completed? What if the form is for the DMV? What's the difference between my medical provider and a "certifying official?"

"I’ve never really thought about it until now, but I want to plan ahead. Show me how the VA helps with things like planning health care decisions, completing advance directives, and burial preparation, so my family isn’t left guessing when that time comes."    (link)

“I’m a Veteran living outside the U.S.  Help me connect with an Overseas Military Services Coordinator for my region."    (link)

“I’ve heard of something called the Foreign Medical Program. Can you explain what it is and how I sign up for care if I live overseas?”    (link)

“I live in a U.S. territory like Guam or Puerto Rico. Do I have full access to VA medical centers and benefits here?”       (link)

“Can I use my GI Bill to go to school in another country? Help me figure out what programs or schools are approved internationally.”    (link) 

“I live overseas and have a pending claim. Can you help me connect with someone who can explain how VA exams work outside the U.S.?”    (link)

"I want to make sure my service is honored the right way when the time comes. Walk me through what memorial benefits I’m eligible for — like burial in a national cemetery, honors, or headstone markers — and how to plan ahead without it being overwhelming."    (link)
 

"I don’t want to leave my family with unanswered questions. Help me get clear about what the VA can provide for funeral costs, paperwork, and survivor benefits — and how I can make sure everything’s ready in advance."    (link)
 

"My loved one was a Veteran and I want to make sure they’re honored properly. Walk me through what I can do now — whether it’s reporting their death, military funeral honors, or updating their VA records to reflect their service."    (link)
 

"I’ve thought about being buried in a VA national cemetery, but I don’t know what’s involved. Show me how eligibility works, what’s covered, and whether I can reserve a spot ahead of time."    (link)
 

"I want to plan my legacy but I don’t even know what to include. Help me review the Planning for the Future to guide me through end-of-life and survivors' benefits. everything from VA benefits to personal legacy decisions."    (link)