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Getting the Care You Deserve: A Guide to VA Community Care

If you’re a veteran navigating the VA health system, you’ve probably heard the term “Community Care.” But what does it actually mean — and how can it benefit you?


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As a veteran myself, I’ve had overwhelmingly positive experiences using VA Community Care, especially when it comes to specialty referrals. From chiropractic care to advanced imaging and beyond, community providers have helped bridge the gap between veteran needs and timely access to care. If you’ve ever been frustrated by long wait times or limited availability within VA facilities, this is a program worth understanding.


💡 What Is VA Community Care?

The Veterans Community Care Program (VCCP) allows eligible veterans to receive healthcare from approved non-VA providers in their local communities. That means instead of waiting weeks or months for a VA appointment, you might be able to get care right around the corner—and often faster.

You may be eligible for Community Care if:

  • The VA can’t provide the care you need in a timely manner

  • You live far from a VA facility

  • You need a specific service not available through the VA

  • You and your VA provider agree it’s in your best medical interest

👉 Learn more about eligibility here: https://www.va.gov/COMMUNITYCARE/programs/veterans/index.asp

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🩺 My Personal Experience

I’ve used VA Community Care to receive access to acupuncture, neuro-surgeons, physical therapy, and women’s health providers in my area. I was able to keep many specialty providers that I had previously through employee/private insurance. Each time, the process began with a VA appointment, referral request/approval, and speedy appointment scheduling with network providers.

Having access to timely, professional, and compassionate care in the community (some with pre-existing relationships) helped me address my health concerns faster and avoid unnecessary delays. Whether it was counseling, post-surgical follow-ups, or preventive screenings, being able to choose a local provider made all the difference in my recovery and quality of life.


✅ How To Use VA Community Care

Here’s how to get started:

  1. Talk to Your VA Provider – Schedule an appointment or send a Secure message to your care team requesting a referral. Let them know your concerns or care needs. They’ll determine if a Community Care referral is available and appropriate.

  2. Get Authorized – The VA must approve the referral before you see a community provider. Emergency services work differently—learn more here: https://www.va.gov/COMMUNITYCARE/providers/info-EmergencyCare.asp

  3. Schedule Your Appointment – You can either wait for the VA to contact you with scheduling info or call the Community Care Network (CCN) directly for updates, depending on the setup in your region.

  4. Attend Your Appointment – Just show up! The VA and the provider handle the billing. (Pro tip: Always confirm that the provider is still in-network before your visit, and your referral is still active.)



🔁 What Types of Services Can You Get?

Veterans may be referred for:

  • Primary care

  • Mental health services

  • Orthopedics

  • Dermatology

  • Women’s health

  • Physical therapy

  • Massage therapy

  • Diagnostic imaging (X-rays, MRIs)

  • Surgical consults

…and much more.

The Community Care program gives you more flexibility while still staying within the VA healthcare system. It’s an excellent option for veterans who need faster access or specialized care.



VA Community Care is one of the most empowering tools available to veterans. It puts you at the center of your healthcare and opens doors to providers who can meet your needs quickly and professionally.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in the system, consider speaking to your provider about a referral. It just might change your entire healthcare experience—like it did for me.


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