VA Eliminates Barrier to Community Care Referrals for Veterans
United States veterans are eligible to obtain paid care from non-VA providers in the community care network, if certain conditions are met. A recent policy change by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) could significantly improve access to chiropractic and other community-based care for veterans across Illinois. As of May 2025, the VA has eliminated a longstanding administrative requirement that delayed referrals to non-VA providers, even when both the veteran and their VA clinician agreed that community care was appropriate. For chiropractic physicians in Illinois who participate in the VA Community Care Network (CCN), this could lead to faster patient access and a more predictable referral pipeline.
Faster Access When It’s in the Veteran’s Best Interest
Previously, when a VA provider determined that receiving care from a community provider was in the best medical interest of the veteran, that referral still had to undergo a second clinical review before being approved. This additional layer often led to delays and sometimes denials, even in cases where timely access to care was clearly warranted.
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The updated policy removes this secondary review process. Now, once a VA clinician and a veteran decide that community care is the best option, the referral can move forward without further internal scrutiny. This change stems from provisions included in the recently passed Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act. Veterans must still meet one or more existing eligibility requirements for community care, such as long drive times, wait times, unavailable services, or quality standards not being met at VA facilities.
Why This Matters for Chiropractic Physicians
This policy revision represents a meaningful shift in how the VA balances oversight with patient-centered decision-making. By empowering VA clinicians and veterans to make timely decisions about external care, the system is likely to see reduced bottlenecks and greater satisfaction among patients and providers alike.
Illinois chiropractic physicians who are authorized VA community care providers may begin seeing veterans sooner, with fewer administrative hurdles. It also signals the VA’s intent to improve collaboration with the private sector to better meet veterans’ healthcare needs.
Next Steps for Illinois Providers
Chiropractic physicians should ensure that their practice information and credentialing status within the VA Community Care Network are current. With the elimination of the secondary review, referral volumes may rise, and readiness to accept new VA patients will be essential.
For official updates and guidance, visit the VA Community Care provider website.
