Nope. I had to struggle to get in as a priority 8 which was like the bottom of the barrel. With my current 10% rating that moved me up to priority 3 meaning I no longer have co-pays for care. It was not retroactive so they have me on the hook to pay for carotid artery surgery and are taking basically my entire disability check until it’s paid off. Per IRS rules that is allowed. They even got my tax return last year. None of it much money at a time but...........
In fact I am correct as Owen pointed out in post below.
ALL veterans who honorably complete their service are eligible to receive VA care. NOT free which is may what you think should happen. Someone who serves an enlistment or 2 should not expect free ins.
OTOH does the VA drag its’feet? Absolutely. No more than any Ins company.