Veteran Guide to HealthVet
Your complete guide to using VA Community Care through HealthVet
Quick Video Overview
Watch these short videos to understand the key points of VA Community Care
Know Your Options
See exactly what's available - no guessing, no chasing down bad info
Community Care Is Your Right
Understand your eligibility and rights
Don't Get Stuck with the Bill
Follow the right steps to avoid unexpected costs
Myth vs Reality
Get the facts about common misconceptions
Why We Built Health.Vet
Meet our founder and learn our mission
Am I Eligible for Community Care?
You may be eligible for VA Community Care if you meet any of these criteria:
Distance from VA
You live more than 30 minutes from a VA primary care facility or 60 minutes from a VA specialty care facility
Wait Times
VA cannot provide care within required wait time standards (20 days for primary care, 28 days for specialty care)
Service Not Available
VA does not offer the specific service you need
Medical Hardship
Your VA provider determines it's in your best medical interest to receive community care
Geographic Location
You live in a US state or territory without a full-service VA medical facility
Special Eligibility
You qualify through specific VA programs or designations
If I Want to Use Community Care, What Do I Do?
Follow these steps to get started with VA Community Care:
Talk to Your VA Provider
Discuss Community Care options with your VA care team. They can determine if you're eligible and initiate a referral.
Get Your Authorization
Once approved, you'll receive an authorization letter with your authorization number, approved services, and timeframe.
Find a Provider
Use our provider search tool to find Community Care providers near you who accept VA patients.
Schedule Your Appointment
Contact the provider with your authorization number to schedule. Make sure they confirm VA Community Care acceptance.
Attend Your Visit
Bring your authorization letter, photo ID, and any relevant medical records to your appointment.
Getting Started with HealthVet
HealthVet connects eligible Veterans with Community Care providers when VA facilities cannot provide the care you need. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to access care through our platform.
Check Eligibility
Verify you qualify for Community Care
Find Providers
Search for care in your area
Schedule Care
Book appointments easily
How to Use VA Community Care
What's Covered
Authorized Services
All services listed in your authorization
Emergency Care
Emergency services when necessary
Follow-up Care
Related follow-up within authorization
Prescriptions
Medications prescribed during visits
Important Notes
No Veteran Payments
Never pay for authorized services
Stay Within Authorization
Only approved services are covered
Report Issues
Contact VA if providers request payment
Keep Records
Save all appointment documentation
Tips for Success
Before Your Appointment
- • Confirm provider accepts VA Community Care
- • Verify your authorization is active
- • Prepare questions for your provider
- • Arrange transportation if needed
During Your Appointment
- • Provide authorization number upfront
- • Discuss all health concerns
- • Ask about follow-up care needs
- • Request medical records copy
After Your Appointment
- • Follow all care instructions
- • Schedule follow-ups as directed
- • Report visit to VA care team
- • Keep all documentation
Managing Your Care
- • Track authorization expiration dates
- • Coordinate with VA providers
- • Update contact information
- • Use secure messaging when available
Need Help?
Community Care Support
Questions about authorizations
1-877-881-7618
Veterans Crisis Line
24/7 confidential support
988, Press 1