Introduction
For decades, Veterans turning to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) mostly found themselves in traditional healthcare settings, hospitals, primary care offices, specialty clinics, and pharmacies. These services are still essential, but they don’t cover every need. Veterans’ health journeys are diverse. Some conditions respond well to standard treatments, while others improve when supported with different, less traditional approaches.
In recent years, the VA has begun expanding access to nontraditional providers through the VA Community Care Network (CCN). This shift reflects both scientific research and what Veterans have been saying all along: healing is not “one size fits all.”
This blog looks at the growing role of nontraditional care, who these providers are, why the VA is embracing them, and what it means for Veterans.
Traditional vs. Nontraditional Care
Traditional Care
When Veterans think of VA healthcare, they often picture services like:
- Primary care physicians
- Surgeons and medical specialists (cardiology, orthopedics, neurology)
- Imaging centers and labs
- Prescription medications, including pain management tools
- Standard rehabilitation programs
Nontraditional Care
Nontraditional—or “complementary and integrative”—care includes approaches outside conventional medicine but backed by growing research. Examples include:
- Acupuncture
- Chiropractic care
- Yoga and mindfulness training
- Massage therapy
- Nutritional counseling
- Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT)
- Medical cannabis (state-legal, under specific policies)
Not all of these are officially VA-approved, but the fact that some are being recognized marks a real cultural change in Veteran care.
Why This Shift Matters
Veterans’ Unique Health Profiles
Service-related injuries, chronic musculoskeletal pain, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and PTSD often need more than a single approach. Traditional care alone doesn’t always fully address them.
Limitations of Traditional Medicine
Medications and surgeries save lives—but they also carry risks. Veterans have asked for safer, sustainable options that don’t leave them dependent on opioids or stuck with side effects.
Research and Evidence
The science is catching up. Studies show benefits such as:
- Acupuncture for chronic pain and headaches
- Mindfulness for stress reduction and better sleep
- Chiropractic and OMT for mobility and function
Veteran Feedback
Veterans have been clear: many already turn to complementary care outside the VA. By recognizing this demand, the VA helps bring these services safely into the system through Community Care.
VA’s Whole Health Approach
A big part of this shift is the VA’s Whole Health model, which goes beyond treating symptoms. It focuses on:
- Veterans’ life goals
- The mind-body-spirit connection
- Multiple care options working together
Through Whole Health, the VA has piloted programs in yoga, meditation, tai chi, and acupuncture—many of which are now expanding across facilities.
Community Care Network and Provider Expansion
The VA Community Care Network (CCN) allows Veterans to see approved providers outside VA facilities when:
- The VA doesn’t offer a needed service
- Wait times are too long.
- The nearest VA location is too far.
Under CCN, contracts are no longer limited to traditional specialists. Complementary providers are being added too—broadening Veterans’ choices while removing the need to pay out of pocket or juggle outside systems.
Examples of Nontraditional Providers Now Recognized
- Acupuncturists
Helping with pain management, especially for Veterans seeking non-opioid options. - Chiropractors
Supporting spinal and musculoskeletal health, both common issues among Veterans. - Osteopathic Physicians (DOs)
Fully licensed doctors who use OMT for drug-free pain relief. - Mental Health Integrative Providers
Mindfulness teachers, yoga instructors, and trauma-informed therapists supporting PTSD, stress, and sleep. - Nutritionists and Lifestyle Coaches
Guiding Veterans in managing diabetes, heart disease, and weight—conditions that affect quality of life. - Medical Cannabis (State-Legal)
While federally restricted, the VA acknowledges that many Veterans use medical cannabis through state programs. VA providers can’t prescribe it, but also cannot penalize Veterans for legal use. Veterans Desk and Mendry provide education to reduce confusion and stigma.
Why Veterans Seek Nontraditional Care
- Chronic Pain Management
Many Veterans fear opioid dependency. Complementary methods like acupuncture, chiropractic care, and OMT provide non-drug pain relief. - PTSD and Mental Health
Yoga, mindfulness, and meditation can help Veterans manage stress and anxiety alongside conventional therapy. - Desire for Control
Nontraditional care gives Veterans a sense of empowerment. They can select approaches that feel right for them, reinforcing their dignity and independence. - Fewer Side Effects
Compared to some medications, complementary approaches may offer symptom relief with fewer or milder side effects, providing a sense of relief for Veterans.
Challenges and Considerations
- Consistency and Quality: Not all providers meet the same standards, so credentialing matters.
- Insurance & Reimbursement: Some services are covered by CCN; others may not be.
- Research Gaps: More studies are needed to validate effectiveness across conditions.
- Cultural Acceptance: Some Veterans remain unsure or skeptical.
The Role of Veterans Desk
At Veterans Desk, we see these changes as more than policy—they’re opportunities. We help Veterans by:
- Education: Breaking down what care options are available.
- Navigation: Helping Veterans understand CCN referrals and eligibility.
- Support: Providing resources that reduce stigma around nontraditional care.
- Grants: Partnering with nonprofits that expand complementary services in local communities.
What Veterans Should Know
- Ask Your VA Primary Care Provider: Even if they can’t provide it directly, they can start a Community Care referral.
- Document Your Needs: Keeping detailed records helps justify access to complementary care.
- Know State Laws: For medical cannabis, understand your state’s program and VA policy.
- Stay Informed: VA coverage and policy are evolving—Veterans Desk is here to keep you updated.
Looking Ahead: Why the VA is Opening Doors
The VA’s recognition of nontraditional care reflects:
- Evidence-based acceptance. Research supports integrative models.
- Veteran demand. Veterans have asked for these services, and policy is responding.
- Opioid crisis. Expanding alternatives helps reduce reliance on high-risk prescriptions.
- Whole Health model. Treating Veterans as entire people—not just a collection of conditions—creates better outcomes.
Conclusion
For Veterans, this isn’t about replacing traditional care—it’s about expanding the circle of care. Healing can come from many sources. Acupuncture, chiropractic, mindfulness, nutrition counseling, osteopathic treatment, and state-legal cannabis are now part of the conversation.
The VA’s integration of these approaches through the Community Care Network marks a turning point: Veterans’ lived experiences are shaping policy.
At Veterans Desk, we’re committed to helping Veterans navigate these changes. Because every Veteran deserves care that respects their choices, eases invisible pain, and restores dignity.
