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Veterans Crisis Line:988, press 1
Based on The MISSION Act of 2018 (Pub. L. 115-182)MISSION Act of 2018 (Pub. L. 115-182)† and implementing regulations at 38 CFR § 17.410038 CFR § 17.4100†. 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 ActMISSION Act (Pub. L. 115-182)†, enrolled veterans may be eligible to receive care from community providers when VA cannot meet certain access standards38 CFR § 17.4100 access standards†. 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.
| 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.
| 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.
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.
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.