Accessing Community Care

Square with blue background that describes basic overview of how Veterans enrolled in VA Health Care access community care. The image explains the process in three main steps. Step 1: Go to VA. Schedule an appointment with a VA provider (doctor). Your VA care team will work with you to see if you are eligible for community care. Eligibility is based on your medical needs, care that is available at VA, and other requirements. Important: Make sure VA confirms you are eligible and authorized before going to the next step. Step 2: Make an Appointment. VA will work with you to find a community provider and make an appointment. You can select a community provider or VA can select one for you. Important: The community provider selected must be in VA’s network and be willing to accept payment from VA. Step 3: Receive Care – Arrive promptly for your appointment. Important: If you need to schedule a follow-up appointment, check with your community provider to make sure VA authorized the care. If VA did not authorize the care, your community provider should contact VA to arrange the care you need. If you have a question about your specific care needs, contact your VA medical facility. If your question is about the Veterans Choice Program, call 866-606-8198. You can also visit this link for more information https://www.va.gov/COMMUNITYCARE/programs/veterans/ Image includes VA seal.