Accessing Community Care for Veterans

Community Care Network

Veterans have the opportunity to access healthcare through local community providers based on their specific healthcare needs and circumstances. Meeting certain eligibility criteria allows Veterans to utilize this option. It's important to remember that even if a Veteran qualifies for community care, they usually retain the choice to receive care from a VA medical facility.

In most cases, Veterans are required to obtain approval from the VA before they can receive healthcare services from a community provider to ensure they are not billed for the care received. Eligibility determinations for community care services are generally handled by VA staff members.

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Determining Eligibility for Community Care

A Veteran's eligibility for community care is based on their unique healthcare requirements and situation. Key points regarding eligibility for community care include:

1. Veterans typically need prior approval from the VA before they can receive care from a community provider.

2. Veterans should either be enrolled in VA health care or qualify for VA care without the need for enrollment to access community care.

3. Eligibility for community care remains contingent on an individual Veteran's healthcare needs and circumstances.

4. Eligibility determinations for community care are generally made by VA staff members.