While the Department of Veterans Affairs has expanded services and technology over the years, Veterans living in rural areas still face persistent, often overwhelming, challenges when it comes to accessing health care. From limited provider availability to poor infrastructure and long travel times, rural Veterans are too often left behind by the systems meant to serve them.

At Veterans Guardian, we work with Veterans from all across the country, and we see firsthand the disparities that rural communities face. These are not isolated incidents – they are systemic barriers that require national attention and local solutions.

The Rural Health Gap: Distance, Isolation, and Disparity

More than one in four Veterans in the U.S. live in rural communities, where access to quality care is not just difficult; it’s sometimes impossible.

Here’s what many rural Veterans face:

Long travel times to the nearest VA facility, sometimes exceeding 60–90 minutes

• Lack of public transportation or affordable travel options
• Fewer available primary care physicians and specialists
• Limited broadband access, reducing the effectiveness of telehealth
• A higher proportion of older Veterans, who may have mobility or health challenges

These barriers mean missed appointments, delayed diagnoses, and worsening health outcomes, especially for those with chronic conditions, disabilities, or mental health needs.

Telehealth Helps, But It’s Not Enough

The VA has invested significantly in virtual care, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Telehealth has become a lifeline for many Veterans who live far from clinics or hospitals. Programs like VA Video Connect and community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs) offer more flexible options than ever before.

However, telehealth is only effective when:

• Veterans have access to high-speed internet
• There’s a provider available on the other end
• The condition being treated can actually be managed remotely

For many rural Veterans, these criteria still aren’t met. Broadband gaps in rural America remain a major issue, with some counties lacking even basic internet access. Additionally, staffing shortages in both the VA and community provider networks limit appointment availability, even online.

Mobile Health Units and Community Clinics: Promising, But Limited

Federal initiatives have introduced mobile health units and expanded partnerships with local clinics to bring services closer to rural Veterans. These mobile units are equipped with diagnostic tools, video conferencing, and even behavioral health support.

Programs like these have proven effective, but they’re often infrequent, underfunded, or too narrowly deployed. Many communities see a mobile unit only once a month or must travel to another town for care. That’s a significant burden for elderly or disabled Veterans, particularly during winter months or in regions with poor road infrastructure.

Staffing Shortages Hurt Everyone, Especially in Rural Communities

Healthcare staffing shortages are a nationwide problem, but they hit rural areas the hardest. It’s more difficult to recruit and retain doctors, nurses, mental health professionals, and support staff in small towns and remote counties. The result is overworked providers, reduced hours, and sometimes a complete absence of specialty care.

For a Veteran with PTSD, diabetes, or orthopedic injuries, the lack of local access to specialists can mean:

• Delayed treatment
• Missed diagnoses
• Lower quality of life
• Increased likelihood of avoidable hospitalizations

These are the kinds of disparities that can’t be fixed with band-aid solutions. They require serious policy commitment, investment, and innovation.

Veterans Guardian’s Perspective: Rural Veterans Deserve More

At Veterans Guardian, we believe no Veteran should be forced to choose between their zip code and their health. Where you live should not determine the level or quality of care you receive. We’re proud to advocate for Veterans from every region, and we recognize that rural Veterans often face the steepest climb.

Here’s how we support rural Veterans:

• Assistance navigating VA benefits when travel is difficult
• Remote consultations to help with disability claims and appeals
• Education about telehealth options and eligibility
• Advocacy for improvements in rural access, staffing, and outreach

We’re not just about filing paperwork, we’re about bridging the gap between Veterans and the care they’ve earned.

What Needs to Happen Next: Closing the Rural Access Gap

To truly improve care for rural Veterans, a combination of federal leadership and local innovation is required. Here are several steps policymakers and agencies can take:

Expand Broadband Infrastructure

Rural broadband expansion is not just a technology issue—it’s a health equity issue. The government must prioritize internet access as a foundation for modern VA services.

Increase Funding for Rural VA Clinics

Community-based clinics need more resources to meet demand. This includes upgraded equipment, expanded staff, and mental health support.

Enhance Transportation Support Programs

More funding and coordination are needed to assist Veterans who can’t drive or lack access to reliable vehicles. Transportation should never be a barrier to health care.

Recruit and Retain Rural Healthcare Providers

Loan forgiveness, rural incentive programs, and local residency opportunities can help attract medical talent to underserved areas.

Improve Outreach and Education

Veterans in rural communities must know about their options. Proactive communication, especially through trusted local networks, can ensure no one is left in the dark.

Rural Veterans Are Not Forgotten But They Need More

June is a time of reflection and action for the Veteran community. Between Flag Day, PTSD Awareness Month, and other observances, this is the right time to shine a light on rural Veterans who are too often overlooked.

At Veterans Guardian, we know these communities matter. These Veterans gave everything for their country, and it’s our duty to make sure they are seen, heard, and cared for—no matter where they live.

If you’re a rural Veteran struggling to access the care you need, reach out. We’re here to help guide you through the system, connect you to resources, and fight for the benefits you earned.