Getting out, military retirement, military to civilian transition - Military Times

Separation: Health care

Separating service members can buy health care policies for themselves and their family members through the Continued Health Care Benefit Program, which is designed to provide coverage while you wait for a civilian policy to start. You must enroll in the program within 60 days of separation, and you are eligible to participate in the program for 18 months.

The Department of Veterans Affairs offers a medical benefits package to all enrolled veterans. Enrollment allows veterans to receive care at any VA facility. If you need medical care while traveling and cannot visit your primary care facility, you can visit a VA hospital for treatment.

Active military service and an honorable discharge are the bases for eligibility for most VA health care benefits packages.

Contact: Continued Health Care Benefit Program, http://www.humana-military .com/chcbp/main.htm; VA medical benefits package, http://www.va.gov/health eligibility