Join
The VA Community Care Network
A Guide for Milk Banks
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 community-based health providers with opportunities to serve veterans and their families. This guide is designed for nonprofit human milk banks that provide pasteurized donor human milk (PDHM) by safety standards and clinical protocols. If your organization meets eligibility requirements and operates in alignment with Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA) standards, this page will help you join the VA Community Care Network (CCN).
Step-by-Step Enrollment in the VA CCN
Verify Eligibility
• Operate as a licensed nonprofit or health-system-affiliated milk bank.
• Follow HMBANA or FDA guidelines for donor screening and milk processing.
• Meet all federal, state, and local compliance requirements.
Gather Required Documentation
- Nonprofit designation or licensing documentation.
• Facility inspection reports and pasteurization protocols.
• Proof of malpractice or liability insurance.
• Clinical references (e.g., from NICU physicians or hospital partners).
Submit Your Application
Submit through one of the two VA CCN administrators based on your region:
• Optum VA Community Care Network (Regions 1–3)
• TriWest Healthcare Alliance (Regions 4–5)
Complete Required Training
- HIPAA compliance and VA privacy training.
• Facility or vendor credentialing orientation (as directed).
Visit the VHA TRAIN portal for available courses.
Credentialing & Contracting
- Your facility and protocols will be reviewed for clinical quality and safety.
• A formal agreement will outline pricing, logistics, and documentation procedures.
Step 6: Begin Providing Services
- Once approved, you may begin fulfilling donor milk prescriptions for VA-enrolled infants.
• Submit claims electronically via the CCN administrator’s portal.
Why Milk Banks Matter to Veterans and Their Infants
Donor human milk can be lifesaving for medically fragile infants, especially those born prematurely or with complex health conditions. VA-enrolled mothers—particularly those who have experienced preterm birth, critical illness, or maternal complications—may require support through community-based milk banks.
As a milk bank provider in the VA CCN, your role may include:
- Supplying donor milk prescribed by VA neonatologists or pediatricians.
• Following safety, pasteurization, and screening protocols in line with HMBANA or similar standards.
• Collaborating with VA medical centers and NICUs for timely delivery and documentation.
• Educating families on safe donor milk usage and breastfeeding support.
Key Benefits of Joining the VA CCN
- Support Military-Connected Families: Serve veterans and their newborns in need of critical nutritional support.
• Streamlined Reimbursement: Receive payment through simplified billing processes managed by VA’s third-party administrators.
• Nationwide Collaboration: Work with VA clinicians, case managers, and women’s health coordinators.
• Increased Visibility: Establish your milk bank as a trusted source for federal healthcare referrals.
• Clinical Impact: Contribute to reducing infant morbidity and improving outcomes through donor milk access.
Bridging the Gap for Veterans
Educational Support & Program Growth
- VA-affiliated milk bank providers may participate in maternal-child health CME activities.
• Nonprofits may qualify for grants or federal partnerships in perinatal care.
• Explore additional guidance through the VA Women Veterans Health Program.
Transitioning from Military or Federal Service
- Former military medical lab technicians or nurses may assist in milk bank operations.
• Facilities led by veteran-affiliated nonprofits should highlight military service history in their application.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is donor milk covered under VA benefits?
Yes, when prescribed by a VA clinician and deemed medically necessary. Milk banks must be enrolled in the VA CCN for reimbursement.
What standards must a milk bank follow?
VA prefers milk banks accredited by HMBANA. Banks must follow validated screening, pasteurization, and storage procedures.
Can we ship donor milk across state lines?
Yes, as long as your facility meets all applicable interstate commerce and health safety standards and is authorized by your state health department.
Does the VA support lactation education?
Yes. Through its women’s health initiatives, the VA encourages breastfeeding and may refer patients to local education and support services, including those offered by milk banks.