The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to ensuring Veterans receive timely, high-quality health care whether through VA facilities or approved community providers. Veterans may be eligible to receive community care when VA cannot provide the services needed, ensuring that no Veteran is left without essential medical support.
Community care allows Veterans to receive treatment from local providers outside the VA system, while the VA covers the cost of that care. This flexibility ensures Veterans have access to the right care, at the right time, and in the right place.
Overview: VA and Community Health Care at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Veterans Health Administration (VHA) – Community Care Program |
| Administered By | U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs |
| Purpose | Provide medical care for Veterans through VA or authorized community providers |
| Eligibility | Based on care availability, distance, and individual medical needs |
| Authorization Required | Yes – community care must be pre-approved by VA |
| Payment | Covered by VA (Veterans may have copayments for nonservice-connected care) |
| Copays Apply | For nonservice-connected conditions |
| Network Includes | Community clinics, hospitals, pharmacies, urgent care centers, and specialists |
| Official Website | VA.gov/communitycare |
| VA Support Line | 1-877-222-VETS (1-877-222-8387) |
Understanding VA Community Care
Community care enables eligible Veterans to receive medical treatment outside VA facilities when VA cannot provide the needed services. Care is provided on behalf of and paid for by VA, ensuring Veterans don’t face out-of-pocket expenses beyond required copayments.
However, authorization is required before receiving care from a community provider. Once approved, VA coordinates directly with the provider to schedule appointments, share medical records, and manage payments.
“Community care bridges the gap between Veterans and quality health services,” says Dr. Angela Rivera, VA Chief of Community Care Programs. “Our goal is to make sure Veterans always have access to timely, safe, and effective care no matter where they are.”
Types of Care Available Through VA and Community Providers
VA’s health care network offers an extensive range of medical services both directly and through community care partners.
1. General Medical Care
Veterans can access primary and specialty care from community providers when the nearest VA facility can’t deliver the needed services.
This includes diagnostic exams, rehabilitation, chronic disease management, and preventive health services.
2. Urgent Care
VA-authorized urgent care clinics treat non-life-threatening conditions like minor injuries, infections, or colds.
Veterans can visit participating in-network urgent care centers without prior VA approval, making it a convenient option for immediate care.
3. Emergency Care
In emergencies, Veterans should go to the nearest emergency department.
VA may pay or reimburse emergency services under specific conditions including notifying VA within 72 hours of treatment.
4. Foreign Medical Care (FMC)
Eligible Veterans living or traveling abroad may receive health care benefits outside the U.S. under the Foreign Medical Program (FMP).
VA covers treatment for service-connected disabilities and associated conditions while overseas.
5. Home Health and Hospice Care
Veterans can receive skilled nursing, hospice, or palliative care in their homes.
This helps Veterans maintain comfort and dignity while receiving compassionate support in familiar surroundings.
6. Indian and Tribal Health Services (IHS/THP)
VA partners with Indian Health Service and Tribal Health Programs to expand access for American Indian and Alaska Native Veterans.
This collaboration ensures culturally informed care and honors commitments to tribal communities.
7. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Services
VA offers infertility treatment, including IVF, to eligible Veterans with certain service-connected reproductive conditions.
This program supports Veterans and their families in achieving parenthood.
8. State Veterans Home (SVH) Program
State-operated Veterans homes provide nursing home, domiciliary, and adult day care services to eligible Veterans.
These homes offer long-term care options closer to home and family.
9. Flu Shots
Veterans can receive free flu shots at any VA health care facility, in-network retail pharmacy, or urgent care location with no copay required.
Costs and Billing Information
While VA covers the cost of care for service-connected conditions, Veterans may owe copayments for nonservice-connected care.
Costs vary depending on the type of care, priority group, and income level.
Billing and Payments
Veterans can pay copays through:
- VA.gov/pay (online payment portal)
- By mail or phone
- In person at VA medical facilities
VA may also bill private health insurance for care unrelated to service-connected disabilities.
If you face financial hardship, VA offers payment plans and hardship assistance programs to ensure uninterrupted care.
VA Cost and Billing Programs Explained
1. COVID-19 Medical Debt Relief
Under the American Rescue Plan, VA offers expanded debt relief options for Veterans and dependents affected by the pandemic.
2. Copayment Information
Veterans pay copays only for nonservice-connected treatments. Service-connected care remains free of charge.
3. Financial Hardship Assistance
VA provides payment extensions, deferments, or copay waivers for Veterans experiencing financial distress.
4. Other Health Insurance
VA encourages Veterans to maintain private health insurance, which VA may bill to offset costs. This does not affect VA care eligibility.
Why VA and Community Care Matter?
VA’s integrated health care system ensures every Veteran has a path to receive the medical attention they need.
Whether through a VA hospital, community clinic, or partner facility, Veterans can depend on consistent, high-quality care.
“The goal is seamless care coordination,” explains Dr. Rivera. “Whether you’re at a VA hospital or a local clinic, your medical records, prescriptions, and authorizations all follow you through one unified system.”
Final Thought
VA’s health care system including community partnerships ensures Veterans receive timely, accessible, and personalized care no matter where they live. Whether through direct VA services or authorized community providers, your health is always a top priority.
“Every Veteran deserves the best care possible,” says Dr. Rivera. “VA Community Care ensures that distance, availability, or medical complexity never stand in the way of getting it.”
FAQs
What is VA Community Care?
VA Community Care allows eligible Veterans to receive medical services from non-VA providers when VA cannot provide the necessary care in-house.
Do I need VA approval before visiting a community provider?
Yes. Except for urgent or emergency situations, VA must authorize your community care in advance. Unauthorized visits may not be covered.
Will I have to pay for community care?
VA pays the provider directly for approved services.Veterans may be responsible for copayments related to nonservice-connected care, similar to care provided at a VA facility.
Can I go to urgent care without authorization?
Yes. Veterans enrolled in VA health care can visit in-network urgent care providers without preauthorization for minor illnesses and injuries.
Can Veterans living abroad get VA care?
Yes. Through the Foreign Medical Program (FMP), VA reimburses eligible Veterans for service-connected treatments while living or traveling overseas.
