Join
The VA Community Care Network
A Guide for Autism 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 dedicated healthcare professionals with opportunities to serve our nation’s veterans. This guide is specifically designed for providers who specialize in the evaluation and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)—including developmental pediatricians, clinical psychologists, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), occupational therapists (OTs), and board-certified behavior analysts (BCBAs). Whether you work with children of veterans or provide adult autism evaluations, this guide gives you everything you need to join the VA Community Care Network (CCN) and support autism-related care through VA-authorized services.
Step-by-Step Enrollment in the VA CCN
Verify Your Credentials
- Developmental Pediatricians – MD with subspecialty training
- Psychologists – PhD or PsyD with autism expertise
- BCBAs – Certification from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB)
- SLPs – ASHA certification and state licensure
- OTs – NBCOT certification and state licensure
Prepare Required Documents
Gather the following:
- Proof of certification (e.g., BACB, ASHA, NBCOT)
- Valid state license
- Proof of malpractice insurance
- Updated CV/resume showing clinical experience in autism care
- Completed and signed W-9
Submit Your Application
Apply to the appropriate network based on your region:
Complete Required Training
Complete mandatory VA provider training courses at:
Courses may include HIPAA compliance, billing procedures, and care coordination within the VA system.
Credentialing & Review
The VA or its third-party administrator will:
- Verify your credentials, background, and experience.
- Review your clinical setting for compliance and accessibility (if applicable)
Receive and Sign Contract
- Once approved, you will receive a formal contract with reimbursement terms.
- You may begin accepting referrals for autism-related services for eligible veterans and their families
Why Autism Specialists Matter to Veterans and Their Families
Although autism is often diagnosed in childhood, the need for consistent, specialized care continues throughout life. Veterans raising children with ASD require access to high-quality developmental, behavioral, and therapeutic services. Additionally, some adult veterans may live with previously undiagnosed or late-diagnosed autism and benefit from formal evaluation and support.
As an autism care specialist in the VA CCN, you can:
- Deliver targeted developmental and behavioral therapies to dependents of veterans.
- Provide diagnostic and therapeutic services to adult veterans when clinically indicated.
- Improve quality of life, independence, and social functioning through evidence-based interventions.
Key Benefits of Joining the VA CCN
- Serve a Unique Population: Support both adult veterans and their children with ASD by providing access to specialized care not always available in VA facilities.
- Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Work alongside professionals such as psychologists, SLPs, OTs, developmental pediatricians, and BCBAs.
- Streamlined Reimbursement: Receive payment through VA-authorized care plans under TRICARE and Community Care policies.
- Clinical Flexibility: Offer ABA therapy, speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling services in clinic or home settings, depending on authorization.
- Professional Growth: Access VA-sponsored training and continuing education in autism care and developmental disabilities.
Bridging the Gap for Veterans
Educational Support & Professional Growth
- Participate in VA-sponsored workshops and continuing education related to autism, neurodevelopmental disorders, and family-centered care.
- Explore potential eligibility for student loan repayment or Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
- Connect with other professionals in the VA system to advance multidisciplinary autism care.
Transitioning from Military Service
- Military autism specialists should ensure their credentials align with civilian licensing requirements.
- Use expedited licensing pathways for transitioning service members when available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I provide ABA therapy under VA CCN?
Yes. ABA therapy is authorized for eligible dependents of veterans and is covered under the VA Family Member Programs when prescribed.
Are adult autism evaluations reimbursed?
Yes. If deemed clinically necessary and approved by a VA provider, adult diagnostic assessments and follow-up services are reimbursable.
Can I work as part of a team with other specialists?
Absolutely. The VA encourages interdisciplinary care involving BCBAs, SLPs, OTs, psychologists, and developmental pediatricians.
Can I provide services via telehealth?
Yes. Telehealth is supported for many autism-related services, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Be sure to indicate telehealth capabilities when enrolling.
