Rural Veterans and Access to Healthcare – News
News stories from the past 60 days.
Oct 13, 2026 - An Albany, New York, Veterans Affairs mobile outreach initiative offers healthcare enrollment, benefits assistance, counseling referrals, and community resources in rural communities throughout northern New York. The North Country Caravan began operations in 2025 and was expanded in 2026.
Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Oct 9, 2026 - Describes the Mobile Prosthetic and Orthotic Care program at the Houston VA in Texas. The mobile prosthetics and orthotics lab can reach veterans in rural communities in need of adjustments rather than having to drive long distances to the Houston facility. The program was started at VA Puget Sound and has expanded nationally through the Veterans Health Administration Office of Rural Health.
Source: VA Houston Stories
Sep 25, 2026 - Announces proposed bipartisan legislation establishing a pilot program that would allow for reimbursement of dental care provided to rural veterans. The program aims to increase access to care while managing cost and capacity by using existing U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs infrastructure.
Source: Office of Representative Jack Bergman
Sep 18, 2026 - Notice from the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) announcing changes to the TRICARE program benefits for calendar year 2027. Outlines annual changes, new and expanded benefits, demonstration programs, pharmacy out-of-pocket expenses for CY 2027, and more. This TRICARE Health Plan information is applicable to services beginning January 1, 2027.
Source: Federal Register
Sep 17, 2026 - Highlights innovative work in pelvic health rehabilitation for veterans that expands training for rural physical therapists and connects veterans with specialized care.
Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Sep 14, 2026 - Describes a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs program in Tennessee increasing access to cancer care for rural veterans. Discusses increased cancer risk for veterans and the impact that travel can have on patients and their caregivers.
Source: VA News
Sep 6, 2026 - Highlights telehealth as a service delivery method for mental healthcare for rural veterans following a suicide attempt.
Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Aug 31, 2026 - Highlights a new Saturday clinic for veterans in rural West
Texas in need of audiology care. Discusses healthcare
access challenges for veterans in this region and how the
expanded hours help ensure veterans are able to receive the
consistent care they need.
Source: VA West Texas Health Care Stories