Comparing the services available to patients served by Veterans Health Administration (VHA) under the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to those provided the Defense Health Agency (DHA) under the Department of Defense (DoD) can be tricky as they have different missions and cater to different populations. Here is an abbreviated breakdown of the differences between these two systems as they apply to pharmaceutical manufacturers.
Feature | VA | DoD |
Beneficiaries | Veterans | Active-duty military, families, retirees |
Eligibility | Based on military discharge status and service history | Based on active-duty status and family relationships |
Strengths | Cost-effective care for eligible veterans | Extensive network of facilities worldwide |
Care Model | Integrated care model with a focus on primary care and preventive services | Military Treatment Facilities. Additional care depends on individual’s TRICARE policy selection |
Scope of Services           | Comprehensive healthcare, including primary care, specialty care, mental health care, prosthetics, and long-term care | Primary care, preventive care, maternity care, some specialty care, and some behavioral health services |
Cost  | Varies. Depending on service, income, and disability rating, but, generally, free or low-cost for eligible veterans. | TRICARE is typically free for active-duty service members. Dependents and retirees pay premiums based on their plan. |
Drug Formularies | Veterans Affairs National Formulary (VANF) | TRICARE Formulary |
Pharmacy Prime Vendor | McKesson Corporation | AmerisourceBergen Corporation |
Mail Order Pharmacy | Completed by internal Consolidated Mail Outpatient Pharmacy (CMOP) | Completed by external contractor – Express Scripts |
Provider Choice | Options may be limited outside of major metropolitan areas | Limited to providers within the military healthcare system and those that accept TRICARE |