Join
The VA Community Care Network
A Guide for Plastic Surgeons
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 source for connecting qualified healthcare providers with opportunities to care for our nation’s veterans. This guide is designed for Plastic Surgeons who are interested in enrolling in the VA Community Care Network (CCN). Whether your expertise is in reconstructive surgery, burn care, post-oncologic reconstruction, or functional restoration, this page provides all you need to become a VA-authorized provider.
Step-by-Step Enrollment in the VA CCN
Verify Your Credentials
- Hold an active, unrestricted medical license in your state
- Be board-certified in Plastic Surgery (or eligible, depending on VA region policies)
Prepare Required Documents
- Proof of state medical license and board certification
- Current resume or CV
- Signed W-9 form for reimbursement
- Proof of malpractice insurance, if required by your contracting region
Submit Your Application
Choose your VA CCN region and apply through the appropriate portal:
Complete Required VA Training
• Complete compliance and documentation training
• Courses may include HIPAA, EHR usage, and surgical documentation best practices
• Visit:
Credentialing & Facility Review
- Your license and qualifications will be verified
- Practice settings may be reviewed for VA compliance, access, and care quality
Final Contract
- Once credentialed, you’ll receive a contract outlining reimbursable services and scope
- Upon approval, you can begin offering surgical care to veterans under VA CCN authorization
Why Plastic Surgery Matters to Veterans
Plastic surgery is more than aesthetics—it’s about restoring function, rebuilding identity, and supporting recovery. Veterans may experience complex injuries related to combat, accidents, burns, cancer treatments, or congenital conditions. As a plastic surgeon, you contribute to both the physical rehabilitation and emotional recovery of veterans, helping them regain confidence, improve mobility, and reintegrate into civilian life.
As a plastic surgeon in the VA CCN, your role may include:
- Reconstructive surgeries for trauma, burns, or post-oncologic needs
- Functional restoration following limb injuries or facial trauma
- Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams on rehabilitation plans
- Supporting prosthetics, orthotics, and adaptive interventions
Key Benefits of Joining the VA CCN
- Restore Lives with Purpose: Contribute to the healing journey of veterans recovering from life-altering injuries
• Authorized, Reimbursable Procedures: Receive payment for reconstructive surgeries and procedures authorized by VA treatment plans
• Collaborative Care Model: Participate in integrated care teams including general surgery, oncology, and physical rehabilitation
• Serve a Grateful Population: Work with patients who value and respect the role of surgical care in their recovery
• Streamlined Credentialing and Support: Leverage VA systems that support continuity of care, reimbursement, and provider training
Bridging the Gap for Veterans
Educational Support & Career Development
- Access VA-supported CME opportunities on post-traumatic reconstruction, burn treatment, and oncology
- Contribute to surgical innovation and case review panels in complex care settings
- Providers may be eligible for federal student loan forgiveness programs
- Learn more at: VA Education and Training
Transitioning from Military Service
- Military-trained plastic surgeons or military medical officers can include DD214 documentation to support fast-track credentialing
- Highlight experience in combat medicine, trauma surgery, or reconstructive care during military service
- Explore expedited licensing options for military-to-civilian transitions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I perform elective cosmetic procedures for VA patients?
No. Only reconstructive or functionally necessary procedures that are authorized in the veteran’s VA care plan are reimbursed.
Are post-traumatic and post-oncologic reconstructions covered?
Yes. Reconstructive procedures following trauma, burns, or cancer surgery are eligible for reimbursement if deemed medically necessary by the VA.
Can I collaborate with other specialists through the VA CCN?
Yes. The VA encourages interdisciplinary coordination, especially in complex cases involving trauma, rehabilitation, oncology, and behavioral health.