Join
The VA Community Care Network
A Guide for Allergy, Immunology & Internal 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 dedicated healthcare professionals with opportunities to serve our nation’s veterans. This guide is tailored for specialists in Allergy and Immunology, including providers with subspecialties in Internal Medicine, Clinical Immunology, or Laboratory Immunology. If you’re looking to make a lasting impact through service in the VA Community Care Network (CCN), this page will walk you through everything you need to know.
Step-by-Step Enrollment in the VA CCN
Verify Your Credentials
- Hold an active state medical license
- Be board certified in Allergy & Immunology or a related subspecialty (e.g., Internal Medicine + Immunology)
- Maintain up-to-date malpractice insurance.
Prepare Required Documents
- Updated CV or resume
- Signed W-9 form
- Copy of medical license and board certification(s)
- Proof of malpractice insurance
Submit Your Application
Submit your application through the appropriate regional portal:
Complete Required Training
Required training may include:
- VA HIPAA and privacy compliance
- Veteran-centered care principles
EHR documentation standards
Visit: VA Provider Education & Training
Credentialing & Facility Review
- Your credentials will be reviewed by the VA or its third-party administrators.
- If applicable, your clinic may be evaluated for accessibility and regulatory compliance.
Final Contract
- Once approved, you’ll receive a formal contract detailing reimbursement rates and service expectations.
- Upon contract execution, you can begin accepting veteran referrals through the CCN.
Why Allergy & Immunology Specialists Matter to Veterans
Veterans often face unique environmental exposures and health conditions that contribute to allergic reactions, asthma, autoimmune disorders, and immunodeficiencies. Many of these conditions are chronic and complex, requiring expert evaluation and long-term management.
As a VA CCN Allergy & Immunology specialist, your role includes:
- Diagnosing and managing allergic and immunologic conditions such as asthma, urticaria, eczema, anaphylaxis, and primary immunodeficiencies
- Conducting skin and blood testing for allergens
- Administering allergen immunotherapy (AIT), biologics, or desensitization treatments
- Managing infusion therapies for autoimmune and immunologic conditions
Collaborating with VA rheumatologists, pulmonologists, and infectious disease teams
Key Benefits of Joining the VA CCN
- Serve a High-Need Population: Many veterans suffer from underdiagnosed or undertreated allergic and immune disorders—your expertise fills a critical care gap.
- Streamlined Reimbursement: Enjoy reduced administrative overhead with the VA’s simplified billing system.
- Collaborative Practice Environment: Work with interdisciplinary care teams in a system that values specialist coordination.
- Flexible Care Options: Provide both in-person and telehealth services, especially for follow-ups and patient counseling.
Bridging the Gap for Veterans
Educational Support & Professional Growth
- Attend VA-sponsored CME programs focused on allergy, immunology, asthma, autoimmune disease, and related topics.
- Explore VA research partnerships on environmental exposures and immune disorders in veteran populations.
- Look into federal loan repayment programs for healthcare providers working in underserved communities
Transitioning from Military Service
- Former military physicians or immunologists can expedite credentialing by submitting DD214 and prior DoD clinical experience.
- Highlight military-related allergy/immunology exposure in your application to strengthen your VA profile
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I perform allergy testing and immunotherapy for veterans?
Yes. These are standard services covered by VA referrals when medically indicated.
Can some appointments be handled virtually?
Yes. Follow-up visits, education, and treatment planning can often be done via secure, VA-compliant telehealth platforms
Are infusion therapies and biologics covered?
Yes. These treatments are covered for qualifying conditions under VA care coordination guidelines.
Can I treat both allergic and autoimmune conditions?
Yes, especially if your training includes Internal Medicine or Clinical Immunology. Indicate this in your enrollment to broaden your referral scope.
