VA Rehabilitation Programs Texas: Eligibility & How to Apply

Rehab for Veterans Near Me in Texas: The Complete 2026 Guide

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Veterans in Texas can access rehabilitation through VA medical centers, Vet Centers, and community care providers. Key programs include the San Antonio Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center, Comprehensive Integrated Inpatient Rehabilitation Programs at Dallas and San Antonio VA, Home Based Primary Care, substance use disorder residential treatment, and vocational rehabilitation through VA’s Chapter 31 program.


Quick Facts

ItemDetails
BenefitInpatient rehab, outpatient PT/OT/speech therapy, polytrauma/TBI care, spinal cord injury rehab, SUD residential treatment, vocational rehab, blind rehab
EligibilityVeterans enrolled in VA health care; clinical need for rehabilitation services; service-connected or non-service-connected conditions
ApplicationVA Form 10-10EZ for enrollment; referral through VA primary care provider; VA Form 28-1900 for VR&E
Processing TimeHealth care enrollment: 1–2 weeks; clinical assessment: 1–3 weeks; authorization: up to 5 business days
Official AgencyU.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA); Texas Veterans Commission (TVC)
Required FormsVA Form 10-10EZ, VA Form 28-1900, DD-214
Updated For2026
See also
VA CCN 2026: Understanding the $1 Trillion Next-Gen Contract and Its Impacts on Veterans

What Is Veteran Rehabilitation in Texas?

Veteran rehabilitation in Texas is a system of medical and vocational services designed to help veterans recover from injury, illness, or disability and restore maximum function and independence. The VA offers these services through its medical centers, outpatient clinics, Community Living Centers, Domiciliary residential programs, and community care network. Services range from acute inpatient rehabilitation for severe injuries to outpatient physical therapy and vocational counseling.

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Why it matters: Texas is home to one of only five VA Polytrauma Rehabilitation Centers in the nation, located in San Antonio. The state also has Comprehensive Integrated Inpatient Rehabilitation Programs at Dallas and San Antonio VA medical centers, spinal cord injury centers in Dallas and San Antonio, and a Blind Rehabilitation Center in Waco. Texas veterans have access to some of the most specialized rehabilitation services available in the VA system.

What veterans should do next: If you are not already enrolled in VA health care, complete VA Form 10-10EZ. Then contact your VA primary care provider to request a rehabilitation assessment and referral.

VA Rehabilitation Facilities in Texas

Texas has multiple VA rehabilitation facilities offering specialized care. The following table lists the major centers and their rehabilitation specialties.

FacilityLocationRehabilitation Services
San Antonio Polytrauma Rehabilitation CenterSan Antonio, TXPolytrauma, TBI, severe multi-trauma rehabilitation
Dallas VA CIIRP/ASPDallas, TXComprehensive inpatient rehab, amputation specialty program
South Texas VA (Audie L. Murphy)San Antonio, TXCIIRP, spinal cord injury, SUD residential, domiciliary
Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical CenterHouston, TXPhysical medicine & rehab, prosthetics, domiciliary, SUD
Waco Blind Rehabilitation CenterWaco, TXBlind and low vision rehabilitation
West Texas VA (Big Spring)Big Spring, TXCommunity Living Center rehab, domiciliary, PTSD/SUD
El Paso VA Health Care CenterEl Paso, TXBrain and spinal cord injury treatment services
Olin E. Teague Veterans’ CenterTemple, TXSpinal cord injury, physical medicine & rehab
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What veterans should do next: Contact your nearest VA medical center to ask about rehabilitation services available in your area. If specialized care is not available locally, ask about VA Community Care options through TriWest Healthcare Alliance.

Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center in San Antonio

The San Antonio Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center (PRC) is one of only five flagship VA PRCs in the United States. It opened in 2011 as a $66 million state-of-the-art inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation center. The facility treats veterans and active-duty service members with multiple traumatic injuries, including traumatic brain injury, amputations, spinal cord injuries, and other severe trauma.

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The five PRCs in the United States:

  • Minneapolis, MN

  • Palo Alto, CA

  • Richmond, VA

  • Tampa, FL

  • San Antonio, TX

See also
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Eligibility: The PRC serves veterans and service members with polytrauma—severe injuries to more than one organ system, including brain injuries. Veterans must be enrolled in VA health care and referred by a VA provider.

Why it matters: The San Antonio PRC serves as a hub for acute medical and rehabilitation care, research, and education. Texas veterans with severe polytrauma injuries can receive world-class rehabilitation without leaving the state.

What veterans should do next: If you or a loved one has sustained polytrauma, contact the South Texas Veterans Health Care System at 1-888-686-6350 or ask your VA primary care provider for a referral to the San Antonio PRC. The VA’s Polytrauma System of Care includes 110 specialized rehabilitation sites across the country.

Comprehensive Integrated Inpatient Rehabilitation Program (CIIRP)

The Comprehensive Integrated Inpatient Rehabilitation Program (CIIRP) at the Dallas VA Medical Center provides intensive inpatient rehabilitation for veterans recovering from serious injury or illness. The program uses a team approach that includes the veteran, their family or caregiver, and a multidisciplinary team of doctors, therapists, nurses, prosthetists, and other professionals.

Admission criteria:

  • Must be medically stable

  • Must be able to participate in therapy 3 hours a day, 6 days a week

  • Must need at least two forms of therapy (physical, occupational, or speech therapy)

  • Must be alert and able to follow instructions consistently

  • Must be motivated and willing to participate in therapy

  • Should have potential to significantly improve function or achieve independence

  • Should have a safe and clear discharge plan

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Services include: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, kinesiotherapy, recreational therapy, psychology, prosthetics, driver evaluation and training, and case management.

Why it matters: CIIRP provides the intensity of therapy needed for veterans with significant functional impairments who need to regain independence after stroke, orthopedic injury, amputation, or other serious conditions.

What veterans should do next: Ask your VA primary care provider for a referral to CIIRP at the Dallas VA Medical Center or the South Texas VA in San Antonio.

Amputation Specialty Program (ASP)

The Amputation Specialty Program (ASP) at the Dallas VA Medical Center is an inpatient rehabilitation program for veterans with limb loss. The program is CARF-accredited and provides intensive rehabilitation services addressing physical, psychological, and medical challenges. The ASP is located within the CIIRP unit in the Community Living Center at the Dallas VA North Texas Health Care System.

Eligibility criteria:

  • Must be medically stable

  • Must be able to participate in therapy 3 hours a day, 5 out of 6 days a week

  • Must need help with two or more therapies (PT, OT, or speech)

  • Must be alert and able to follow instructions

  • Must be motivated and willing to participate

  • Should be able to improve function or achieve independence

  • Should be able to be discharged outside of an institutional setting

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Services provided: The rehabilitation team includes physiatrists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, prosthetists, psychologists, social workers, rehabilitation nurses, speech-language pathologists, kinesiotherapists, recreation therapists, and chaplains.

Why it matters: Veterans with amputations need specialized, intensive rehabilitation to maximize function and quality of life. The ASP provides access to on-site prosthetic labs and cutting-edge rehabilitation technology.

What veterans should do next: Contact the CIIRP/ASP coordinator at the Dallas VA Medical Center at 214-857-0350 or ask your VA primary care provider for a referral.

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation in Texas

Texas has two VA spinal cord injury centers: one at the Dallas VA Medical Center and one at the Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital in San Antonio. Both centers provide specialized rehabilitation for veterans with spinal cord injuries and disorders.

Dallas VA Spinal Cord Injury Center: A 30-bed facility providing specialized care for veterans with spinal cord injuries. The VA is currently building a new Spinal Cord Injury & Disorders Long-Term Care Center at the Dallas campus, expected to open in 2027.

San Antonio Spinal Cord Injury Center: A 30-bed center at the Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital providing comprehensive spinal cord injury rehabilitation.

What veterans should do next: If you have a spinal cord injury, contact the VA Spinal Cord Injuries and Disorders System of Care at 1-800-877-0814. Your VA primary care provider can provide a referral to the nearest center.

See also
The Comprehensive Guide to VA CCN Correspondence for Veterans in 2026

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Rehabilitation

VA offers comprehensive traumatic brain injury care in Texas, including evaluation, rehabilitation, therapies, and long-term support through the Polytrauma System of Care. TBI rehabilitation is available at the San Antonio Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center and at VA medical centers across the state.

TBI rehabilitation services include:

  • Comprehensive TBI evaluation

  • Cognitive rehabilitation

  • Physical, occupational, and speech therapy

  • Neuropsychological assessment

  • Mental health support for depression, anxiety, and PTSD

  • Family education and support

  • Community reintegration services

Why it matters: TBI is a signature injury of recent conflicts. Veterans with TBI may experience memory problems, difficulty concentrating, headaches, balance issues, and emotional changes. Early rehabilitation can significantly improve outcomes.

What veterans should do next: If you have experienced a TBI during service, contact your VA primary care provider for a comprehensive evaluation. The VA’s Polytrauma System of Care is designed to provide coordinated care across the full spectrum of TBI severity.

Substance Use Disorder Rehabilitation in Texas

VA offers substance use disorder (SUD) treatment at facilities across Texas, including residential rehabilitation, intensive outpatient programs, medication-assisted treatment, and detox services. The VA provides SUD treatment at major medical centers including Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and Big Spring.

Houston VA Domiciliary: A newly constructed 48-bed residential facility that offers veterans with identified addiction or substance use disorders residential rehabilitation, recovery, and health maintenance. Each veteran receives an individualized treatment plan including group and individual therapy. To enroll, speak to your primary care physician.

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Dallas VA Domiciliary Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program (DRRTP): A residential treatment program for veterans with substance use disorders, mental health conditions, and homelessness, providing 24-hour treatment and rehabilitative services.

Big Spring VA Domiciliary (George H. O’Brien Jr. VA Medical Center): Helps veterans who struggle with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance use through residential rehabilitation.

San Antonio SARRTP: Substance Abuse Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program at the Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital.

What veterans should do next: Contact your VA primary care provider to request a referral to a SUD treatment program. For immediate help, call the VA Substance Use Disorder Program at 1-888-385-4444.

Blind and Low Vision Rehabilitation

The Waco Blind Rehabilitation Center at the Doris Miller VA Medical Center provides intensive interdisciplinary rehabilitation to veterans with visual impairment. The program helps veterans overcome the effects of severe vision loss and blindness.

Services include:

  • Living skills assessment and training

  • Orientation and mobility training

  • Communication skills (Braille, keyboarding, adaptive technology)

  • Manual skills training

  • Low vision therapy

  • Computer access training

Why it matters: Vision loss can significantly impact a veteran’s independence. VA blind rehabilitation helps veterans learn new skills to maintain independence at home and in the community.

See also
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What veterans should do next: Contact your VA primary care provider for a referral to the Waco Blind Rehabilitation Center or the Visual Impairment Services Team (VIST) coordinator at your local VA medical center.

Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E)

VA’s Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program—also known as Chapter 31—helps veterans with service-connected disabilities prepare for, find, and maintain suitable employment. The program provides job training, education, resume development, employment accommodations, and independent living services.

Eligibility:

  • You have a service-connected disability rating of at least 10% and a serious employment handicap, OR

  • You have a service-connected disability rating of 20% or more, OR

  • You are a service member who will receive a discharge other than dishonorable for a service-connected disability after completing a VA vocational rehabilitation program

Basic period of eligibility: 12 years from the date of separation from active military service or the date you were first notified of a new service-connected disability.

How to apply: Complete VA Form 28-1900, Application for Veteran Readiness and Employment. You can apply online at VA.gov, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office. If eligible, you will be invited to an orientation session and an initial evaluation with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor.

Texas VR&E support: The Texas Veterans Commission employs VR&E Liaisons to support veterans transitioning from VR&E training to employment.

Why it matters: VR&E helps veterans with service-connected disabilities overcome employment barriers and find meaningful careers. It is one of the most comprehensive vocational rehabilitation programs available to veterans.

See also
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Complete 2026 Guide

What veterans should do next: Apply online at VA.gov or complete VA Form 28-1900. Contact the Texas Veterans Commission at 1-800-252-8387 for assistance with VR&E applications.

VA Community Care for Rehabilitation

VA Community Care allows eligible veterans to receive rehabilitation services from approved community providers when VA cannot provide timely or geographically accessible care. In Texas, TriWest Healthcare Alliance manages the Community Care Network.

Eligibility for Community Care:

  • VA cannot provide the service in a timely manner

  • You live more than 30 minutes from a VA facility for primary care, or more than 60 minutes for specialty care

  • The service is not available at a VA facility

  • The veteran meets other qualifying criteria under the MISSION Act

Community Care services include: Dialysis, rehabilitation, residential/home/hospice care, immunizations, long-term acute care, durable medical equipment, and complementary and integrative health services.

Why it matters: Many Texas veterans live far from VA medical centers. Community Care ensures veterans can receive rehabilitation services close to home through approved providers.

What veterans should do next: Ask your VA primary care provider if you qualify for Community Care. If approved, TriWest Healthcare Alliance will coordinate your referral to a community rehabilitation provider.

Home-Based Rehabilitation Programs

VA provides rehabilitation services in the home for veterans who need skilled care but have difficulty traveling to a VA facility or clinic.

See also
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Home Based Primary Care (HBPC): Provides comprehensive primary care and rehabilitation in the home to veterans with complex chronic conditions. An interdisciplinary team delivers care directly to the veteran’s home.

VA Home Health Care: Covers skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and home health aide services when ordered by a VA physician and provided by a VA-authorized home health agency.

Community Living Center (CLC): Provides short-term rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and restorative therapies for veterans recovering from surgery, illness, or injury. The CLC serves as a bridge between hospitalization and home.

Why it matters: Home-based rehabilitation helps veterans remain independent in their own homes and reduces the need for institutional care.

What veterans should do next: Ask your VA primary care provider for a referral to HBPC, home health care, or a Community Living Center rehabilitation program.

Rehabilitation Programs Comparison Table

ProgramEligible VeteransIncome LimitsOnline Application
Polytrauma/TBI RehabEnrolled veterans with polytrauma or TBINoneReferral through VA provider
CIIRP/ASPEnrolled veterans with serious injury or amputationNoneReferral through VA provider
Spinal Cord Injury RehabEnrolled veterans with SCINoneReferral through VA provider
SUD Residential TreatmentEnrolled veterans with substance use disorderNoneReferral through VA provider
Blind RehabilitationEnrolled veterans with vision lossNoneReferral through VA provider
VR&E (Chapter 31)Veterans with service-connected disability and employment handicapNoneVA Form 28-1900
Community Care RehabVeterans meeting MISSION Act criteriaNoneReferral through VA provider
Home-Based RehabEnrolled veterans with clinical needNoneReferral through VA provider
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How to Apply for Veteran Rehabilitation in Texas

Applying for veteran rehabilitation in Texas involves several steps. The process begins with VA health care enrollment and a clinical referral.

Step 1: Enroll in VA Health Care

If you are not already enrolled, complete VA Form 10-10EZ, Application for Health Benefits. You can apply online at VA.gov, by mail, or in person at your nearest VA medical center.

Required documents:

  • DD-214 or discharge papers

  • Social Security number

  • Financial information (for certain benefits)

  • Insurance information

Step 2: Contact Your VA Primary Care Provider

Once enrolled, schedule an appointment with your VA primary care provider. Explain that you need rehabilitation services. The provider will evaluate your clinical needs and determine what services you qualify for.

Step 3: Complete a Clinical Assessment

A VA social worker, nurse, or provider will conduct a clinical assessment. The assessment evaluates your functional abilities, medical conditions, living situation, and rehabilitation goals. The assessment determines what services you qualify for.

Step 4: Obtain a Referral

If you meet the clinical criteria, your VA provider will approve and refer you for rehabilitation services. For specialized programs like CIIRP or the Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center, the referral goes to the specific facility’s admissions team.

Step 5: Begin Services

Once approved, you will be scheduled for rehabilitation services at the appropriate facility. Services may be provided at a VA medical center, outpatient clinic, Community Living Center, or in your home.

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Processing Times

  • VA health care enrollment: 1–2 weeks

  • Clinical assessment: 1–3 weeks after referral

  • Authorization: Up to 5 business days after the request is received

  • VR&E evaluation: 2–4 weeks after application

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Assuming you need a service-connected disability to get rehab. VA rehabilitation services are available to enrolled veterans regardless of whether their condition is service-connected. A clinical need is the primary requirement.

2. Not enrolling in VA health care first. Rehabilitation services require VA health care enrollment. If you are not enrolled, complete VA Form 10-10EZ before requesting rehab services.

3. Not exploring specialized programs. Texas has a Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center, CIIRP, Amputation Specialty Program, and blind rehabilitation center. Ask your VA provider about all available options.

4. Failing to complete the clinical assessment. The clinical assessment is required to determine eligibility and service levels. Failing to complete it delays rehabilitation services.

5. Not considering VR&E for employment-related goals. If you want to return to work, VR&E (Chapter 31) provides job training, education, and employment support that standard medical rehab does not cover.

6. Missing the VR&E 12-year eligibility window. You generally have 12 years from separation from active duty or notification of a new service-connected disability to use VR&E benefits. Don’t wait.

See also
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7. Not exploring Community Care options. If you live far from a VA facility or cannot get timely care, you may qualify for Community Care through TriWest. Ask your VA provider.

8. Ignoring mental health and SUD treatment. Rehabilitation often involves mental health challenges. VA offers integrated mental health and substance use disorder treatment alongside physical rehabilitation.

9. Not bringing documentation to your assessment. Bring your DD-214, medical records, and any relevant VA documentation to your rehabilitation assessment.

10. Assuming rehab is only for severe injuries. VA rehabilitation covers a wide range of needs, from post-surgical physical therapy to cognitive rehabilitation and vocational training. If you have a functional limitation, ask about rehab.

Latest Rule Changes Affecting Veteran Rehabilitation in Texas

Elizabeth Dole Home Care Act (2025)

The Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act, signed into law January 2, 2025, expands veterans’ access to home- and community-based services, including rehabilitation. The law increases coverage for non-institutional care from 65% to 100% of nursing home costs and strengthens support for family caregivers.

PACT Act (2022) and Rehabilitation

The PACT Act expanded VA health care eligibility for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. Veterans who became eligible for VA health care under the PACT Act are also eligible for rehabilitation services if they meet clinical criteria. This includes cognitive rehabilitation for neurological conditions related to toxic exposure.

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New Dallas Spinal Cord Injury Center

The VA is building a new Spinal Cord Injury & Disorders Long-Term Care Center at the Dallas VA campus, expected to open in 2027. The facility will include inpatient beds, therapy and recreation areas, and a rooftop garden to support recovery.

New VA Outpatient Clinics in Texas

VA is expanding outpatient services in Texas with new clinics in Rosenberg (Fort Bend County) and other locations. The Rosenberg clinic will provide primary care, mental health, radiology, prosthetics, and physical therapy.

House Bill 114 (2025)

Texas House Bill 114 transitions certain veterans’ mental health initiatives from the Health and Human Services Commission to the Texas Veterans Commission effective September 1, 2025. This includes the Texas Veterans + Family Alliance Grant Program, which funds mental health and substance use treatment services for veterans and their families.

Appeals Process

If your VA rehabilitation request is denied, you have the right to appeal. VA appeals are processed through the Veterans Benefits Administration for benefit-related decisions, or through the Veterans Health Administration for clinical decisions.

How to Appeal a Clinical Decision

  1. Request a clinical review: Contact the VA medical center’s Patient Advocate to request a review of the clinical decision.

  2. Request a second opinion: You can request a second opinion from another VA provider.

  3. File a formal appeal: If the clinical review is denied, you can file a formal appeal through the VA’s appeals process.

  4. Contact the Patient Advocate: The VA Patient Advocate can help you understand your rights and navigate the appeals process.

See also
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How to Appeal a VR&E Decision

  1. File a Notice of Disagreement: Submit VA Form 21-0958 or a written statement within one year of the decision.

  2. Request a Decision Review: Choose from Higher-Level Review, Supplemental Claim, or Board Appeal.

  3. Contact a VSO: A VA-accredited Veterans Service Officer can provide free assistance with your appeal.

Why it matters: Many denials are due to missing documentation or insufficient evidence. Appeals give veterans a second chance to present their case.

What veterans should do next: Contact the VA Patient Advocate at your local medical center or a VA-accredited representative from the Texas Veterans Commission at 1-800-252-8387.

Common Questions

1. How do I find rehab services for veterans near me in Texas?
Contact your nearest VA medical center or clinic. You can find VA facilities in Texas at VA.gov. Major rehabilitation centers are located in San Antonio, Dallas, Houston, Waco, Big Spring, and El Paso. If you live far from a VA facility, ask about VA Community Care through TriWest Healthcare Alliance.

2. What is the San Antonio Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center?
The San Antonio PRC is one of only five VA Polytrauma Rehabilitation Centers in the nation. It opened in 2011 and provides intensive inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation for veterans and service members with multiple traumatic injuries, including TBI, amputations, and spinal cord injuries. It is located at the South Texas Veterans Health Care System.

See also
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3. Does VA cover inpatient rehabilitation in Texas?
Yes. VA offers inpatient rehabilitation at multiple Texas facilities, including the Comprehensive Integrated Inpatient Rehabilitation Program at Dallas and San Antonio VA medical centers. Eligibility requires that you be medically stable, need at least two forms of therapy, and be able to participate in 3 hours of therapy per day.

4. What is CIIRP and how do I qualify?
CIIRP stands for Comprehensive Integrated Inpatient Rehabilitation Program. It is an intensive inpatient program for veterans recovering from serious injury or illness. You must be medically stable, able to participate in therapy 3 hours a day, 6 days a week, need at least two forms of therapy (PT, OT, or speech), and be motivated to participate.

5. Does VA cover substance use disorder rehab in Texas?
Yes. VA offers SUD treatment at facilities across Texas, including residential rehabilitation at the Houston VA Domiciliary (48 beds), Dallas VA DRRTP, Big Spring VA Domiciliary, and San Antonio SARRTP. Treatment includes detox, counseling, group therapy, medication-assisted treatment, and aftercare planning.

6. What is VR&E and how do I apply?
VR&E (Veteran Readiness and Employment), also known as Chapter 31, helps veterans with service-connected disabilities prepare for and find employment. You must have a service-connected disability rating of at least 10% with a serious employment handicap, or 20% or more. Apply using VA Form 28-1900 at VA.gov.

See also
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7. Does VA cover spinal cord injury rehabilitation in Texas?
Yes. VA operates spinal cord injury centers at the Dallas VA Medical Center (30 beds) and the Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital in San Antonio (30 beds). A new Spinal Cord Injury & Disorders Long-Term Care Center is under construction at the Dallas campus, expected to open in 2027.

8. Does VA cover blind rehabilitation in Texas?
Yes. The Waco Blind Rehabilitation Center at the Doris Miller VA Medical Center provides intensive interdisciplinary rehabilitation to veterans with visual impairment. Services include living skills training, orientation and mobility, communication skills, and adaptive technology training. Ask your VA provider for a referral.

9. How do I get a referral for rehabilitation at the VA?
Contact your VA primary care provider and explain that you need rehabilitation services. The provider will evaluate your clinical needs and provide a referral. For specialized programs like CIIRP or the Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center, the referral goes to the specific facility’s admissions team.

10. Can I get rehab through VA Community Care in Texas?
Yes, if you meet MISSION Act criteria. This includes situations where VA cannot provide the service in a timely manner, you live more than 30 minutes from a VA facility for primary care or more than 60 minutes for specialty care, or the service is not available at a VA facility. TriWest Healthcare Alliance manages Community Care in Texas.

See also
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11. Does VA offer vocational rehabilitation in Texas?
Yes. VA’s VR&E program (Chapter 31) provides job training, education, resume development, and employment accommodations for veterans with service-connected disabilities. The Texas Veterans Commission employs VR&E Liaisons to support veterans transitioning from training to employment. Apply using VA Form 28-1900.

12. What is the Amputation Specialty Program?
The Amputation Specialty Program at the Dallas VA Medical Center is a CARF-accredited inpatient rehabilitation program for veterans with limb loss. It provides intensive rehabilitation addressing physical, psychological, and medical challenges. The program includes on-site prosthetic labs and access to advanced rehabilitation technology.

13. Does VA offer home-based rehabilitation in Texas?
Yes. VA Home Based Primary Care and VA Home Health Care provide rehabilitation services in the home for veterans with clinical needs. Services include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and skilled nursing. Ask your VA primary care provider for a referral.

14. What is a Community Living Center?
A Community Living Center (CLC) is a VA facility that provides short-term rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and restorative therapies for veterans recovering from surgery, illness, or injury. The CLC serves as a bridge between hospitalization and home. Texas CLCs are located at major VA medical centers across the state.

15. What should I do if my VA rehab claim is denied?
If your rehabilitation request is denied, contact the VA Patient Advocate at your local medical center to request a clinical review. For benefit-related decisions like VR&E, you can file a Notice of Disagreement within one year and choose from Higher-Level Review, Supplemental Claim, or Board Appeal. Contact the Texas Veterans Commission at 1-800-252-8387 for free assistance.

See also
The Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs: A Complete Guide

Key Takeaways

  • Texas is home to one of only five VA Polytrauma Rehabilitation Centers, located in San Antonio, providing world-class care for veterans with severe multi-trauma injuries.

  • VA offers multiple inpatient rehabilitation programs in Texas, including CIIRP at Dallas and San Antonio VA, the Amputation Specialty Program at Dallas VA, and spinal cord injury centers in Dallas and San Antonio.

  • Substance use disorder residential rehabilitation is available at the Houston VA Domiciliary (48 beds), Dallas VA, Big Spring VA, and San Antonio VA.

  • VR&E (Chapter 31) provides vocational rehabilitation for veterans with service-connected disabilities, with a 12-year eligibility window from separation or notification of a new disability.

  • VA Community Care through TriWest Healthcare Alliance allows veterans to receive rehabilitation from community providers when VA cannot provide timely or geographically accessible care.

  • Home-based rehabilitation programs include Home Based Primary Care, VA Home Health Care, and Community Living Centers for veterans who need care at home.

  • The Elizabeth Dole Home Care Act (2025) expanded coverage for non-institutional care from 65% to 100% of nursing home costs, making it easier for veterans to receive rehabilitation at home.

  • The PACT Act (2022) expanded VA health care eligibility, opening rehabilitation benefits to millions of veterans exposed to burn pits and Agent Orange.

  • The Waco Blind Rehabilitation Center provides intensive rehabilitation for veterans with vision loss, including living skills, orientation and mobility, and adaptive technology training.

  • VA is expanding rehabilitation infrastructure in Texas, including a new Spinal Cord Injury & Disorders Long-Term Care Center in Dallas expected to open in 2027.

See also
How to File a VA Mileage Reimbursement Claim Using the VA Health and Benefits Mobile App

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