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The VA Community Care Network
A Guide for Physician Assistants (PAs)
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 go-to resource for connecting skilled healthcare professionals with opportunities to serve those who served our nation. This guide is tailored for Physician Assistants (PAs) who are interested in joining the VA Community Care Network (CCN)—a national system enabling community-based care for eligible veterans.
Whether you specialize in primary care, urgent care, surgery, behavioral health, or chronic disease management, this guide provides all the information you need to become a VA CCN provider.
Step-by-Step Enrollment in the VA CCN
Verify Your Credentials
• Maintain an active, unrestricted license to practice as a PA in your state
• Hold current NCCPA certification (or equivalent credential, if applicable)
Prepare Required Documents
- Copy of your state license and national certification (e.g., NCCPA)
- Updated resume or CV
- Signed W-9 form for reimbursement
- Proof of malpractice or liability insurance, if required in your region
Submit Your Application
Apply through the portal associated with your region:
Complete VA Onboarding & Training
- Complete required VA training on privacy, documentation standards, and EHR usage
- Visit:
Credentialing & Facility Review
- Credentialing includes license verification, background checks, and clinical scope evaluation
- Your practice or facility may also undergo a compliance review to ensure VA readiness
Final Contract
- You will receive a formal contract detailing reimbursement terms and approved services
- Upon signing, you may begin caring for veterans with VA-approved authorizations
Why Physician Assistants Matter to Veterans
Veterans face a wide range of health challenges—from service-connected injuries and chronic illnesses to mental health conditions and age-related decline. Physician Assistants play a critical role in expanding access to timely, compassionate, and evidence-based care across urban and rural areas alike.
As a Physician Assistant in the VA CCN, your contributions include:
- Supporting primary and specialty care services under physician supervision
- Managing chronic diseases, medication adherence, and preventative screenings
- Assisting in minor procedures or post-operative follow-ups
- Providing mental health support in collaboration with licensed providers
- Reducing wait times and improving access, especially in underserved areas
Key Benefits of Joining the VA CCN
• Deliver Comprehensive Care: Offer diagnostic, preventive, and therapeutic services under a supervising physician
• Serve a Diverse Veteran Population: Help veterans across different medical disciplines—from general health to specialty consults
• Streamlined Reimbursement: Receive payment for VA-authorized services provided within your licensed scope of practice
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work alongside physicians, nurses, social workers, and care coordinators
Bridging the Gap for Veterans
Professional Development & Career Support
- Access VA-sponsored CME opportunities in your specialty area
- Explore cross-specialty collaboration in mental health, geriatrics, primary care, and more
- Eligible providers may qualify for federal loan forgiveness programs
- Learn more: VA Education and Training
Transitioning from Military Medical Service
- Former military PAs or corpsmen transitioning to civilian practice should include DD214 documentation
- Military-trained providers may benefit from accelerated licensing pathways and recognition of experience
- Be sure to highlight combat medicine, field surgery, or trauma care experience where applicable
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can PAs practice independently within the VA CCN?
No. PAs must practice under the supervision or within a collaborative agreement with a licensed physician, as required by state law and VA policies.
Are specialty services provided by PAs reimbursed?
Yes, as long as services are within the PA’s licensed scope of practice and are part of the VA-authorized treatment plan for the veteran.
Can I work across different clinical settings (e.g., urgent care, mental health, orthopedics)?
Yes. PAs may provide care across multiple settings if their training aligns with the clinical environment and the care is included in the VA’s approved care plan.