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1. Can I sign up to get my prescriptions from the VA?

Yes and no. First, prescription assistance is available if you are receiving primary health care from the VA. The VA pharmacy does not (normally) fill prescriptions from private physicians. VA doctors must write the prescriptions which means you must be a VA patient. In order to receive primary health care services from the VA, you must either be enrolled with the VA, or you must be receiving either VA compensation or pension benefits. Call our office for an appointment for enrollment for VA medical services.

2. Is there transportation available to the VA Medical Center in Minneapolis?

Both Nicollet County and Blue Earth County offer transportation to the VAMC in Minneapolis from the local area. Nicollet County's van travels on the even weekdays of the month and Blue Earth County travels on the odd weekdays. Call the Nicollet County Veterans Service Office at 507-934-7875 to sign up for transportation, and for details on the time and place for pickup. The cost is $10 per person, either 1-way or 2-way. County transportation is not available to the St. Cloud VAMC.

3. What are your office hours?

The Nicollet County Government Center is open from 8 a.m. To 4:30 p.m., however, the veterans service officer has many responsibilities that occur outside of the government center. We strongly urge you to call 507-934-7871 and ask for an appointment. If you receive the voicemail message, press the pound (#) key to leave an immediate voice message. Be sure to leave your telephone number so we can return your call as soon as possible.

4. Are there local doctors I can see for my care instead of traveling to the VA Medical Centers?

VA Medical Center Minneapolis contracts with St. James Clinic in St. James, MN for a Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC). There is also a CBOC now open in Mankato, MN. These contracts are for a limited number of veterans and space is also limited. Veterans must still enroll through VAMC Minneapolis and then request primary care at the CBOC. Call our office for an appointment, or for more information.

5. I was injured while I was on active duty. How do I get help with my medical needs for that injury?

In general, here is the definition of a service related medical condition: An injury or disease that was caused by, or aggravated by, active military service. As you can see, the definition is painted with very broad strokes. The injury or disease must also be 'chronic', that is, it must be currently present, and there must be a clear connection to your active service. The VA claims process is a complicated one and the Nicollet County service officer stand ready to assist you in developing your claim. Call our office for an appointment to discuss your claim for service connection.

6. What benefits do I get from my active duty service?

There are a wide range of benefits offered, however, eligibility for those benefits varies from veteran to veteran. Some benefits include education benefits, VA Home loan guarantees, health care services, burial benefits, war-time service pension, service-connected disability compensation, and much more. Benefit handbooks are available free of charge from the Veterans Service Office. We also have reading material and pamphlets available for more information, as well as informative video presentations.

7. How do I get a copy of my honorable discharge?

If you have previously brought your discharge papers into the courthouse to have them registered with the County Recorders Office, then you may request a certified copy through the Veteran Service Office. All recorded discharges are now considered private documents under state law and they are available only to the veteran or the veteran's next of kin. Call our office at 507-934-7870, at least 1 day ahead of time so we can arrange for a certified copy to be printed for you. You may also request a copy by emailing our office.