Purple Heart Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Questions
- What documentation is needed as proof that I am a Purple Heart recipient?
- What can I do to obtain military service documents that prove I was awarded a Purple Heart Medal?
- Why do I still have to give my income information if I have a Purple Heart?
- As a Purple Heart recipient, will I still have to make co-payments for my VA health care?
- Why am I being billed for prescriptions if I have a Purple Heart?
- Since I’m in a higher priority group, does this mean better benefits and faster appointments?
- Who can I call if I have a question about Purple Heart?
Answers
The Purple Heart certificate or medal alone cannot be used for documentation. Additional documentation supporting your Purple Heart Award must be provided. For example, any one of the following documents will be acceptable:
- DD-214 (Discharge)
- DD-215 (Discharge Update)
- World War II veterans may present the discharge or separation document issued by the War Department
- Adjutant General’s Office (WD AGO)
- Service records showing the award
- Military orders of the award
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The Enrollment Coordinator at the nearest VA medical center can help you find sources of documentation or complete the Standard Form 180 “Request Pertaining to Military Records”. You may also request assistance from a local Veteran Service organization. Or go to the Web and obtain the Standard Form 180 at: http://www.archives.gov/.
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Because the Public Law does not exempt Priority Group 3 veterans from prescription and/or long-term/extended care co-pays and you may be exempt from copays based on your income. It is in your best interest to complete the income test annually.
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No. The exemption from co-payments includes VA hospital care and outpatient care including medical, surgical and mental health visits.
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Exemption from prescription co-payments is not provided for in the Veterans’ Millennium Health Care Act.
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The VA is committed to providing timely, quality care to every veteran.
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Contact the Enrollment Coordinator at your local VA medical center, or call the VA Health Benefits Service Center at 877-222-VETS.
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If you do not find the information you were seeking above, click here. Or, to ask your own question, click here.
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