This tool provides estimates for educational purposes only. We are not accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs and do not file claims, provide legal advice, or represent veterans before the VA (38 U.S.C. § 5904). For official assistance, contact a VSO, CVSO, or VA-accredited attorney.
Community Care Eligibility (MISSION Act)
Based on The MISSION Act of 2018 (Pub. L. 115-182)[src] and implementing regulations at 38 CFR § 17.4100[src]. This page is a free community resource. We are not VA-accredited and do not file claims or provide legal advice (per 38 U.S.C. § 5904).
Last reviewed: April 2026 · Next review: October 2026
Maintained by: Veterans Benefits Navigator editorial team. Every citation links to a primary federal or state source. See editorial standards and our privacy posture.
Primary sources: MISSION Act (Pub. L. 115-182), 38 CFR § 17.4100, VA.gov community care
Under the MISSION Act[src], enrolled veterans may be eligible to receive care from community providers when VA cannot meet certain access standards[src]. Community care is not automatic — it requires VA approval.
Community care requires VA approval
You must be enrolled in VA healthcare to be eligible for community care. Even when access standards are met, VA must approve the referral. Your VA care team can help determine if community care is appropriate for your situation.
Drive-Time Standards
Access| Service Type | Standard |
|---|---|
| Primary care, mental health, non-institutional extended care | 30 minutes average drive time |
| Specialty care | 60 minutes average drive time |
If the average drive time from your home to the nearest VA facility offering the care you need exceeds these standards, you may be eligible for community care.
Wait-Time Standards
Timeliness| Service Type | Standard |
|---|---|
| Primary care, mental health | 20 business days from date of request |
| Specialty care | 28 business days from date of request |
If VA cannot schedule your appointment within these timeframes from the clinically indicated date (or date of request), you may be eligible for community care.
Other Eligibility Criteria
Beyond access standards, veterans may qualify for community care under these additional criteria:
Service not available at VA
The specific healthcare service you need is not available at any VA medical facility.
Grandfathered community care
You were receiving community care under the Veterans Choice Program as of June 6, 2018, and your provider continues to participate.
Best medical interest
VA determines that receiving care in the community is in your best medical interest based on specific clinical circumstances.
VA medical service line not meeting quality standards
The VA medical service line providing the care does not meet VA quality standards.
How to Request Community Care
- 1.Talk to your VA care team about whether community care may be appropriate for your needs.
- 2.VA will review your request and determine if an access standard or other eligibility criterion is met.
- 3.If approved, VA will issue an authorization and help you find a community provider in the VA network.
- 4.Schedule your appointment with the approved community provider within the authorization timeframe.
This tool is not affiliated with the Department of Veterans Affairs. We are not accredited agents, attorneys, or claims agents, and do not file claims or provide legal advice per 38 U.S.C. § 5904. For help with community care eligibility, contact your VA care team or a Veterans Service Organization.