Join
The VA Community Care Network
A Guide for Cardiovascular Disease 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 Cardiovascular Disease specialists, including general and subspecialized cardiologists. Whether you manage chronic heart failure or conduct diagnostic imaging, this guide walks you through how to join the VA Community Care Network (CCN) and serve veterans through high-quality cardiac care.
Step-by-Step Enrollment in the VA CCN
Verify Your Credentials
Ensure you meet the following requirements:
- Board certification in Cardiovascular Disease (ABIM or AOBIM)
- Active, unrestricted state license
Prepare Required Documents
You’ll need to submit:
- Valid medical license, malpractice insurance, and NPI
- Hospital privileges and recent procedural logs
- Signed W-9 and updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Submit Your Application
Apply through your region’s enrollment portal:
Complete VA Provider Training
Visit the VA training portal and complete the required modules:
Credentialing & Contracting
After submission:
- VA will verify credentials and hospital privileges
- You’ll receive a contract with your reimbursement and service terms.
- Once signed, you can begin receiving referrals for cardiovascular services.
Why Cardiovascular Specialists Matter to Veterans
Cardiovascular conditions are among the most prevalent and serious health issues facing veterans. Many face elevated cardiac risk due to service-related stress, physical inactivity, PTSD, diabetes, and exposure to toxic substances. As a cardiovascular specialist, your work helps prevent life-threatening events, extend quality of life, and coordinate treatment across multiple disciplines.
Your role in the VA CCN includes:
- Managing hypertension, coronary artery disease, and arrhythmias
- Performing post-MI care, CHF management, and stroke prevention
- Coordinating cardiac rehab and interdisciplinary follow-up
- Providing advanced testing (e.g., echocardiograms, stress tests, Holter monitors)
Key Benefits of Joining the VA CCN
- Serve a High-Risk Population: Work with veterans at elevated cardiovascular risk who require both preventive and interventional care.
- Collaborative Cardiac Management: Partner with VA primary care, endocrinology, nephrology, and mental health providers to deliver whole-person care.
- Fair Reimbursement & Referrals: Receive competitive rates and consistent referrals for both diagnostic and treatment services.
- Flexibility in Services: Provide care in outpatient clinics, hospital consults, or as part of an integrated cardiac facility.
- Clinical Continuity: Contribute to long-term management of cardiac patients, including recurring diagnostics and rehab support.
Bridging the Gap for Veterans
Educational Support & Career Growth
- Access VA-sponsored CME opportunities on veteran cardiac care.
- Stay informed with DoD and VA research on toxic exposures and cardiovascular health.
- Eligible providers may qualify for federal student loan repayment programs.
- Learn more at VA Education and Training
Transitioning from Military Service
If you’re a former military cardiologist or medical officer:
- Convert your military credentials to civilian equivalents
- Explore expedited licensing options for transitioning service members.
Highlight deployment-related cardiac or diagnostic experience in your application.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are outpatient diagnostics like stress testing and echocardiography covered?
Yes. These are commonly approved under authorized VA care plans.
Can I manage complex cardiac patients in partnership with VA providers?
Yes. The VA supports collaborative treatment plans that include multiple specialists and institutions.
Does the VA cover cardiac rehab services?
Yes, when recommended as part of your cardiology care plan and approved by the VA.
Can I bill separately for my services in a hospital or outpatient setting?
Yes. Physicians and facilities may bill separately when using appropriate NPIs and provider types.
