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The VA just made it easier for veterans to get consistent, uninterrupted specialty care in the community.
Starting August 2025, veterans referred to community care for any of 30 standardized types of care will now receive 12-month authorizations—a major improvement from the previous 90- to 180-day renewal system.
This means fewer delays, less paperwork, and more focus on what really matters: your health and recovery.
Table of Contents
Summary of Key Points
- 30 VA community care services now receive 1-year authorizations instead of frequent reapprovals.
- This change reduces the risk of care disruptions and simplifies the process for veterans and providers.
- Veterans should contact their VA Medical Center Community Care Office to confirm how this change applies to their situation.
What’s Changing and Why it Matters
Previously, veterans referred to outside specialists through VA Community Care had to navigate reauthorization every few months—often leading to delays in care or treatment interruptions. Now, once your referral is approved, you’re covered for a full year.
VA Community Care Services Affected
The new rule applies to these 30 services:
Medical Specialties
- Cardiology
- Dermatology
- Endocrinology
- Gastroenterology
- Nephrology
- Oncology and Hematology
- Pain Management
- Pulmonary
- Rheumatology
- Sleep Medicine
- Urology
Mental & Behavioral Health
- Addiction Psychiatry (Outpatient)
- Addiction Medicine (Outpatient)
- Family & Couples Psychotherapy (Outpatient)
- Mental Health (Outpatient)
Orthopedic & Rehab Services
- Orthopedic Hand
- Orthopedic General
- Orthopedic Spine
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry)
Eye, ENT Care & Neurologic Care
- Neurology
- Neurology and Otology
- Otolaryngology (ENT)
- Neuro-Ophthalmology
- Oculoplastic Surgery
- Eye Care Examination
- Optometry (Routine)
Podiatry
- Podiatry (General)
- Podiatry DS
Nutrition & Women’s Health
- Nutrition Intervention Services
- Urogynecology
What Should Veterans Do?
If you’re currently using or about to be referred to community care, reach out to your local VA Medical Center Community Care Office to learn whether your service falls under this update. You don’t need to take extra action if the service qualifies—but being informed ensures you won’t face unnecessary disruptions.
“No Veteran should have their health care disrupted by red tape. This change means better continuity of care, which leads to better health outcomes.”
—VA Secretary Doug Collins
Conclusion
This new 12-month authorization policy is a big win for veterans; it streamlines care, cuts administrative delays, and helps you stay focused on your recovery journey. Whether you’re managing chronic conditions, attending mental health sessions, or receiving rehab support, VA community care just got a lot easier.
You can read the official VA press release here.
FAQs
Who qualifies for VA community care under the new expansion?
Eligibility hasn’t changed. You still need to meet VA Community Care criteria (e.g., drive/wait time standards, service not available at VA, best medical interest, etc.). The update only extends the length of new authorizations to 12 months for the 30 listed services.
Does this apply to my current referral, or only to new ones?
It applies to new community care authorizations issued on or after the effective date. Existing authorizations keep their original end dates. At renewal, your care team can issue a 12-month authorization if the service is on the list.
Do I need to do anything to get the 12-month authorization?
Usually no. If you’re being referred (or re-referred) for one of the 30 services, your VA care team and Community Care Office will handle it. Still, it’s smart to call your local Community Care Office to confirm your service is covered and that your provider has the updated authorization.
Will my copays or billing change?
No. Copay rules didn’t change. If you normally owe copays for community care, you’ll still owe them; if your service-connected status/priority group waives copays, that continues. Make sure your provider bills the VA (not your personal insurance) for authorized care.
What if my specialty isn’t on the 30-service list?
Then the standard authorization timelines still apply. Your VA team can tell you what that looks like for your case.
Does this affect urgent care or pharmacy?
No. Urgent care and prescriptions follow their existing VA community/retail pharmacy rules. This update is about specialty care authorizations for the listed services.
What should I do if I’m near my current authorization end date?
Call your VA care team or Community Care Office. If you still need ongoing care in one of the 30 services, ask about issuing a new 12-month authorization.
Author
Eric Webb
Eric has written and worked in the field of Veterans Disability since 2020 and enjoys writing educational content for the veteran population. His prior work has been published in the Official Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). He holds a Degree in Health and Exercise Science.
