Join
The VA Community Care Network
A Guide for Brain Injury Medicine Specialists
In California, independent Physician Assistants (PAs) can bill the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for services provided to veterans, but it’s essential to understand the regulations surrounding this process.
Welcome to Veterans Desk, your trusted resource for connecting qualified healthcare professionals with meaningful opportunities to serve veterans. This guide is tailored for specialists in Brain Injury Medicine, including physiatrists, neurologists, and rehabilitation physicians who diagnose and treat traumatic brain injury (TBI), acquired brain injury, and associated neurobehavioral conditions.
Whether you’re focused on early-stage recovery, long-term rehabilitation, or ongoing cognitive support, this guide provides everything you need to join the VA Community Care Network (CCN) and deliver expert care to veterans with brain injuries.
Step-by-Step Enrollment in the VA CCN
Verify Your Credentials
- Hold a valid state license in PM&R, Neurology, Neuropsychiatry, or Brain Injury Medicine.
- Maintain board certification in one or more relevant specialties.
- For transitioning military providers, submit DD214 and military credentials for verification.
Prepare Required Documents
- Valid state license(s) and board certification(s).
- Updated CV/resume and completed W-9 form.
- Proof of malpractice insurance.
- Documentation of experience treating TBI or neurorehabilitation populations.
Submit Your Application
Complete Mandatory Training
Visit the VA training portal to complete the following:
- HIPAA and VA-specific privacy trainin
- Clinical documentation and coordination training
- EHR or referral system orientation
- Educational training
Credentialing & Practice Review
- The VA or third-party administrator will verify your credentials.
- Your practice may be reviewed for accessibility and compliance with federal care standards.
Finalize Your Contract
- You will receive a formal provider agreement with reimbursement terms.
- Once signed, you may begin accepting veteran referrals for TBI and rehabilitation care.
Why Brain Injury Medicine Matters to Veterans
Veterans are at high risk for brain injuries resulting from blast exposure, combat trauma, falls, and motor vehicle accidents. These injuries can lead to long-term physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges such as memory impairment, executive dysfunction, emotional dysregulation, and reduced mobility.
As a brain injury medicine specialist, your role in the VA CCN includes:
- Providing inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services for TBI.
- Managing long-term recovery plans and assistive technologies.
- Offering consultative care for post-concussive syndrome, seizures, and neurobehavioral concerns.
- Collaborating with PT, OT, SLP, neuropsychologists, and social workers.
Key Benefits of Joining the VA CCN
- Serve a High-Need Population: Veterans with brain injuries often need long-term, multidisciplinary care.
- Tele-Rehabilitation Options: Deliver remote care for follow-up, medication management, and counseling.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Join VA mental health and rehab teams for whole-person care.
- Streamlined Reimbursement: Get paid for covered services, including evaluation, therapy, and follow-ups.
- Flexible Care Settings: Provide services in clinics, hospitals, or veterans’ homes.
Bridging the Gap for Veterans
Educational Support & Career Growth
- Access VA-sponsored CME programs in neurorehabilitation, PTSD, and cognitive recovery.
- Participate in TBI research initiatives or DoD-funded collaborative care pilots.
- Explore eligibility for student loan forgiveness or provider incentive programs.
Transitioning from Military Service
- Military neurologists or PM&R physicians should explore expedited credential conversion.
- Emphasize any combat-related TBI care experience or neuropsychiatric training in your application.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I lead interdisciplinary rehabilitation teams within the CCN?
Yes. Physicians may serve as medical directors or supervising providers in VA-authorized rehab programs.
Are neuropsychological evaluations and cognitive therapy reimbursed?
Yes. These services are often authorized for veterans with moderate to severe TBI.
Does VA support telehealth or tele-rehabilitation services?
Yes. Telehealth is supported for cognitive support, counseling, and medication follow-up care.
Can I provide home-based or community-based rehab services?
Yes. Depending on clinical need and authorization, home visits and mobile rehab services are covered.
