VA Community Care Guide
Everything you need to know about using your VA Community Care benefits
What is VA Community Care?
The VA Community Care program allows eligible Veterans to receive health care services from approved community providers when VA facilities cannot provide the care needed. This program ensures you have access to timely, high-quality health care closer to home.
Community Care is part of your VA health care benefits. There are no additional enrollment requirements if you're already enrolled in VA health care.
Am I Eligible?
You may be eligible for Community Care if you meet any of these criteria:
Learn about the specific eligibility criteria for VA Community Care
VA cannot provide the care you need.
The specific care you need is not available at your VA facility
You live too far from a VA facility
You live more than 40 miles from the nearest VA medical facility, or face other geographic challenges
You can't get an appointment within 20 days
VA can't schedule an appointment within 20 days of the clinically indicated date
It's in your best medical interest
VA determines that it's in your best medical interest to receive care from a community provider
You qualify under specific circumstances
You're eligible under the "grandfather" provision or other special circumstances
How Community Care Works
Talk to Your VA Provider
Discuss your health care needs with your VA provider. They will determine if you're eligible for Community Care and initiate the referral process.
Get Authorization
VA will review your referral and send you an authorization letter if approved. This usually takes 5-7 business days.
Choose a Provider
Select a community provider from the VA's network. You can search for providers on this site or call for assistance.
Schedule Your Appointment
Contact the community provider to schedule your appointment. Make sure to mention you're a VA Community Care patient.
Receive Care
Attend your appointment. The provider will bill VA directly for covered services.
Common Myths About Community Care
Don't let rumors steer you wrong - learn the facts about VA Community Care
How to Request Community Care
Follow these steps to request community care and avoid unexpected bills
Scheduling Your Appointment
Learn how VA schedules community care appointments and how to speed up the process
Understanding Your Bills
If VA referred you to community care, VA pays the bill - here's what to do if you get a bill
If You're Denied Community Care
A denial isn't the final word - learn how to appeal and fight for your benefits
Special Coverage: Urgent Care, Prescriptions & Travel
Urgent Care Coverage
Learn which urgent care clinics are VA-approved and what services are covered
Prescription Coverage
Understand how to fill prescriptions through VA and avoid out-of-pocket costs
Travel Reimbursement
You may qualify for mileage reimbursement - learn how to claim it
Important Things to Know
Authorization Required
Always get authorization before seeking Community Care, except in emergencies.
No Out-of-Pocket Costs
VA pays for authorized Community Care. You may have copays based on your priority group.
Emergency Care
In emergencies, go to the nearest ER. Notify VA within 72 hours.
Time Limits
Authorizations have expiration dates. Schedule appointments promptly.
Need Help?
Contact Community Care
Mon-Fri 8am-8pm ET