Veterans Affairs

(US Department of Veterans Affairs) A Cabinet-level executive branch department of the federal government charged with integrating life-long healthcare services to eligible military veterans at the 1700 VA medical centers and outpatient clinics across the U.S. Also charged with administering veteran benefits such as education benefits, disability compensation, pension payments, education benefits, home loan certificates, and aide and attendance benefits. Veterans Affairs has two branches: Veteran Health Administration (VHA) and Veteran Benefits Administration (VBA). The VHA oversees hospitals, clinics, and retirement homes. The VBA oversees compensation benefits, pension, death, and education benefits. The VA also encompasses the VA National Cemetery Administration, which operates national cemeteries and provides burial benefits.