A Quick Comparison of VHA to DHA to Kaiser

We know both VA and DoD partner with Kaiser - but how do these health systems actually compare?

If you’re investing in Kaiser Permanente, you should also invest in the VA and DoD. Beyond the direct business opportunity, these systems operate with highly standardized, evidence-based formularies and centralized decision-making that drive prescribing consistency and market share (once a product is adopted). Success in one often signals traction in another because their close working relationship in the interest of cost-effective patient care.

This quick read breaks down the structural and operational differences between the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), the Defense Health Agency (DHA), and Kaiser Permanente.

	Veterans Health Administration	Defense Health Agency	Kaiser Permanente
Lives	9.1MM	9.6MM	12.6MM
Eligibility	Primarily serves veterans.	Serves active duty service members, their dependents, and retirees.	Open to the public enrolled in a Kaiser Permanente health plan.
Cost	Generally free or low-cost. May have copays or deductibles.	Active-duty service members receive free or low-cost healthcare. Dependents and retirees generally pay premiums, copays, etc. depending on their TRICARE plan.	Membership fees (premiums) and cost for specific services (i.e., co-pays) vary by plan.
Access & Availability	Nationwide network of hospitals and clinics. Community Care may be approved.	Network of military hospitals and clinics (MTFs) worldwide, supplemented by civilian network through TRICARE.	Integrated network of hospitals and clinics in specific regions.
Care Model	Integrated care model with a focus on primary care, preventive services, and specialized services for veterans' unique health needs.	Focus on preventive care and readiness for deployment for active-duty members. Comprehensive care available through MTFs and the civilian TRICARE network.	Integrated care model with emphasis on preventive care, coordination between specialists, and population health management.
Drug Control	High - Cost and clinical appropriateness drive selection; veterans often have fewer options compared to commercial plans.	High / Moderate - Centralized management drives consistency and cost control, but member appeal and retail options allow flexibility.	Moderate - Kaiser aims for affordability while maintaining member choice; formulary decisions balance cost and member satisfaction.
Drug Formulary	National VA Formulary - 3-Tier	TRICARE Uniform Formulary - 4 Tier	Proprietary Kaiser Permanente Formulary - 3-5 Tier
P&T Committee Frequency	Monthly	Quarterly	Monthly
Launch Review	6–12 months	60-120 days	30–90 days
Class Reviews	1-2 years (or as triggered)	12–18 months (or as triggered)	Ongoing (at least annually for big classes)
Drug Procurement Management	Centralized procurement vehicle. Integrated pharmacies. Very limited retail availability.	Centralized procurement vehicles. Integrated pharmacies at MTFs. Robust retail access.	Centralized procurement vehicles. Integrated pharmacies. Many plans offer access to retail pharmacy network.
Electronic Health Record (EHR)	Currently transitioning to Oracle Health EHR (only 6/170 VAMCs have transitioned to-date, full roll-out expected 2026).	MHS GENESIS	Epic
Spillover / Influence	High	Moderate	Moderate / High