Explore VA Community Care for addiction rehab! Get timely access to treatment outside VA facilities. Check your eligibility now.
VA Community Care Health Coverage for Drug Rehab
Explore VA Community Care for addiction rehab! Get timely access to treatment outside VA facilities. Check your eligibility now.
The VA Community Care Program is part of the broader Veterans Affairs Health System. The program lets eligible veterans receive care from community providers outside of VA facilities when a VA hospital or clinic isn’t accessible or the wait time is too long. The CCN was established in 2018 to provide veterans with timely and accessible health care, especially for those who cannot readily access VA healthcare facilities or when specific services are unavailable.
Your eligibility hinges on the availability of services at a local VA facility or quality concerns at an existing VA service along with specific healthcare needs that are better met through community providers. Veterans living in states without full service VA medical facilities, such as in Alaska or Hawaii, are typically eligible. The CCN does not require preauthorization for urgent care services. For regular appointments or specialized care you will need a VA referral and could still have wait times.
Does VA Community Care Cover Addiction Rehab?
VA Community Care is an extension of VA Healthcare services. To use a CCN facility the VA must provide a referral. Your primary care provider in the VA can initiate a referral that must pass a comprehensive review by the Community Care Department.
VA Community Care can cover a comprehensive range of addiction treatment. Treatment is not a one size fits all process and your customized treatment program may require medical detoxification and/or inpatient or residential treatment and/or outpatient care. By working closely with your VA doctor you’ll be able to get a treatment plan that outlines exactly what you need which will help you get approved for CCN providers as needed.
I’m sharing my experience about someone close to me who completed Tree House Recovery’s five-month program in Costa Mesa through the partial hospitalization track.
From the start, Adam and Matt showed up with care, heart, and a steady light. My experience with the team was a blessing. The way they came together to support my friend—even at the very beginning—held nothing short of compassion and love. It was truly something special.
Tree House is a brotherhood. It goes deep and focuses on giving a real experience - not a curated, perfect, or cookie-cutter one. It gives the people who go through it the strength to stand up and get through real life when they leave. It highlights your strength, gives you the structure to build it into who you are, and keeps reminding you of it. They provide tools, support, and, beyond that, an environment where learning happens, beliefs are tested and strengthened, and new identities are allowed take root.
It's physiology and psychology, forged together.
And if you’re asking the question, “Does it last?”; In my experience, it grows. It takes the reins and leads. Even as someone standing on the sidelines, I haven’t just learned from this journey—I’ve been inspired by the person who walked it. This program isn’t a finish line; it’s a whole new game, a wider foundation—something that keeps inviting you to become more of who you are. And it is literally a life-saver.
I’m grateful for Tree House Recovery—and especially for Adam and Matt—for showing up and lighting the way. If you’re ready to believe that change is worth it, take the first step. They’ll have your back for the rest.
Nathaniel Roberts
1 week ago
Treehouse Recovery and the staff members are all really great people that care about your sobriety as much as they care about their own and take the role of guiding you into the right direction very seriously. Being apart of this program as changed my life for the better and I found not only a sense of happiness I have never felt before but I also found a sense of purpose and a strong brotherhood within this community of guys I went through this experience with. My outlook on life has completely changed for the better and I open my eyes in the morning thanking God I have another day to be the best person I could be. I am able to face challenges head on and be able to tackle them down without the thought of escaping reality and picking up that bottle. This experience I went through with the people I could now call lifelong friends with has been one of the best chapters of my journey I've been through so far. The good, the bad, the ugly; it was all worth wild. Thank you Justin, Vechi, Matt and everyone involved that saved my life! This book isn’t over yet. Let’s see where this new version of myself takes me.
ckuakini
1 week ago
I highly recommend the TREEHOUSE RECOVERY Program in Costa Mesa. Their comprehensive approach to drug addiction treatment is commendable. The program addresses the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual components of your loved one, thereby focusing on the underlying causes of the addiction, rather than solely on ending the substance use. I believe this approach significantly reduces the risk of relapse. The male-only environment is a key factor in fostering focus and promoting successful outcomes.
My son successfully completed the five-month program and graduated. We are thrilled with the results! His physical and spiritual well-being have been significantly restored. Prior to his enrollment at Treehouse of Costa Mesa, I feared that I would lose him forever. He was at “the bottom” and was ready.
The program Is demanding and emphasizes accountability.
The parents, spouses, or family members have an optional video group meeting with other family members every week that helps immensely.
My son is 9+ months clean, and counting. He has a job and is on his feet again. He says that he’s a better man than he has ever been. I honestly don’t believe a different drug treatment program would have been as successful as the Treehouse Recovery Program for addiction.
Good experience overall though short stay.Staff did everything to help out upon leaving to next level of care.
Brandon Morris
4 weeks ago
Woodland was a pleasant surprise for me. The staff there equipped me with the tools to prepare for life outside of a controlled environment. I would gladly recommend Woodland to anyone seeking help for addiction. Thanks Woodland.
Summerall33
1 month ago
I went here and I sent my husband here. We both loved every minute of this experience with woodland. The staff was the absolute best by far comparing to any other treatment center I’ve been to and I’ve been sober since. I love love this place!! True recovery starts here!
This beautiful, hope-filled place taught me how to live free from the tyranny I dealt with as a child into my young adulthood. DBT classes opened my eyes to a new way of thinking, which in turn helped me to transform my scars into symbols of survival.
I am so grateful to this place and the people there who truly believe that we all deserve the right to be given the tools necessary to live an addiction-free life.
Sincerely,
Paul Gillispie (Whitmore)
Paul Gillispie
1 month ago
Michael’s House changed my life in matter of weeks. I did things that I never have thought I could and hearing from family members as much of a glow they see within me. I know at times I struggled tremendously with doubting myself but knowing the strong support system I had with the team members kept me afloat. Striving to do better and not giving up was something I look forward to everyday that I experienced with Micheal’s House. They gave me the push I have been needing my whole life and I’m so thankful I had the opportunity to be apart of there program as I continue onto my journey of sobriety. I want to give a special thank you to Mark for the long talks and walks that help boost my self worth and confidence, Ms. Candace for all of the wisdom and advice and guidance to keep me going, Ms. Dee for listening and loving me when I felt like giving up, Thomas for finding a place for me to go when it was time for me to transition, the nurses Brandy and Destiny for always having my back no matter what was happening you guys were my angels…I absolutely love you guys and you will forever hold a place in my heart. Thank you Jackie, Lonnie, Deb, Diana and to everyone I forgot to mention you know you are in my prayers and I love you…See you all soon.
Ashley House
1 month ago
First off I came back here for a reason, I initially came to Michael’s House in April on 22. Obviously I didn’t listen to their recommendations and tried it my way. This time around I was lucky they even took me being that I was on 200mg of methadone. But they had the knowledge and means to detox me safely! I was scared but the whole staff At inpatient to IOP to TLC was exemplary in their approach to help me. I could not have done it with out them, thank you to everyone that helped me on my journey, to many names to name!! I will forever hold Michael’s house deep in my heart! I love this place like home! William!!
This place is amazing! From the community to the staff and the nurses! If anyone needs help with addiction Swift River is the place to be ! Thank you !
Much love
Thomas McMaster
Thomas McMaster
1 month ago
Great place great community, great staff, all around great experience
I can only speak on what services I have used in the last year which is their labor and delivery which was 10/10, highly recommend delivering there if you are a low risk pregnancy (no nicu) the staff were so friendly and helpful. Their laboratory services were also amazing!! We had blood work done on our one year old and the staff were friendly and did an amazing job making our baby feel comfortable. They took us on time and had awesome availability for working people. Highly recommend Riverview for these services.
Christina manochio
3 weeks ago
I delivered my son here in 2024. My Obgyn was excellent and he did a wonderful job with my C-section. The only reason why I’m giving four stars is because during my recovery although overall everyone was very kind and helpful. There was one nurse that I had for two days. (My fault should have requested someone else) And I remember every single time she came in she had a nasty attitude like she didn’t wanna help. Once in the middle of the night I needed help going to the bathroom because first of all getting out of the bed by yourself a day after surgery and even being able to pull down, underwear is excruciating and I don’t think they understand that… clearly not… And I remember it was about 3 AM and she was like “what”? And refused to help me in the bathroom and just stared and left. I remember crying from pain and just slowly crawling into bed hysterically. I’ll never forget how crappy she was. I was in horrible pain… hopefully they understand that this type of energy isn’t acceptable for patients out of surgery.
Sabrina Rosenthal
1 month ago
I was in for shoulder surgery. Everything went well. The care that was given by the staff, nurses, etc.. professional, attentive and caring! TY!
SunCloud has such caring staff. They are truly magnificent. SunCloud is the place to go to when needing a little extra care. Met some of the best people during my time there.
Haley Bohne
1 month ago
As a provider, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with SunCloud Health on multiple occasions, and I am consistently impressed with their professionalism, communication, and dedication to patient care. Their team goes above and beyond to ensure that each individual receives truly comprehensive support, with treatment plans that address not just symptoms, but the whole person.
What stands out most is their collaborative approach. They value input from outside providers and maintain open lines of communication, which makes continuity of care seamless.
I have full confidence in referring people to SunCloud Health, knowing they will receive excellent, personalized care.
Deborah Sager
1 month ago
My psychiatrist recommended Suncloud because I was going through a really tough time in my life. I was hesitant because I was at another treatment facility and didn't have a great experience. I was pleasantly surprised when I came to Suncloud because the staff were all so kind and genuinely cared about helping you. Their process groups can be tough but are so helpful in working through your trauma. It's been a year now since I started treatment and I can confidently say that I learned the skills and created an amazing support group that have helped me be in such a better place. Even after you're out of treatment, they have an awesome alumni group with plenty of opportunities to connect with others that have gone through similar things. I highly recommend Suncloud.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Warriors Heart in Bandera, TX was the safest spot I could’ve landed when my life was burning down. I came in drowning in booze, broken from childhood abuse, combat PTSD, and straight rage. They gave me the tools to start building something solid out of all that wreckage.
Biggest lesson for me was Ego. I thought I had one, maybe two. Nah, I had a fleet of them! All those past traumas twisting up and firing off as anger. Warriors Heart helped me see it, strip it down, and start putting in the real work.
Most of the staff are real ones, and they show up every day with wisdom, patience, and love.
It wasnt a magic fix. But it’s where the construction starts, new foundations can be started, and for me, that made all the difference. 🙏
Sharpe_Actl
2 months ago
I can't express enough how greatful I am to these wonderful people and the huge heart they have. They spend everyday looking out for and taking care of Warriors who are lost and seeking peace and stability in their lives.
Tom Spooner and the staff at WH are wonderful people who truly care about the Warriors they serve!
Thanks for everything!
Bill schnarr
5 months ago
9 months. DJ from MN...hi to the team, appreciate the support, the community is real there, build the foundation, and use the tools when needed. CRs are the gatekeepers, keep it up!
Medical team and those within the walls there, you make the day better, especially with the Ws when you run out of M&Ms...
Bubblicious
Beautiful Facility, Staff was mostly friendly, professional & helpful. Most patients were nice; few bad apples; but expected. Learned a lot & really glad I went. I would highly recommend it to others. 👍😎 Martin
Martin Dodge
5 months ago
This place was amazing it really changed my life 70 days sober now
John Dasher
9 months ago
Thee best experience in recovery I've ever had. If anyone needs help with drug or alcohol addiction please call Serenity Springs. Their staff is amazing.
Serenity Springs Recovery truly saved my life. When I went through their inpatient program, I gained the strength, guidance, and tools I needed to finally turn things around. I have been sober ever since my stay there, and I continue to use the lessons I learned every single day. The staff genuinely cared and went above and beyond to support me on my journey. I am extremely grateful for my time at Serenity Springs and for the new life it helped me build. I highly recommend them to anyone seeking real recovery.
Anthony Gomez
4 weeks ago
Beautiful Facility, Staff was mostly friendly, professional & helpful. Most patients were nice; few bad apples; but expected. Learned a lot & really glad I went. I would highly recommend it to others. 👍😎 Martin
Martin Dodge
5 months ago
This place was amazing it really changed my life 70 days sober now
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Calvary saved my life! Huge shout out to Therapist Jade and Frank, Case manager Elizabeth and Jennifer, Bht Mark, Nua, Chandler, Burt, Cambino, Matt, Johnny, Nurses Tiffany, Lea, Jodie, Mario. I know I miss quite a few more names but you each touched my heart. Thank you all for being apart of my recovery!! And of course the big boss, Keno. I appreciate you all. I just graduated residential treatment and I'm looking forward to my next step and journey- PHP/IOP. Another review to come....
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Frequently Asked Questions
When Would I Use VA Community Care Instead of the VA Hospital?
There are several circumstances under which you would use the VA Community Care services instead of a VA facility. Typically it involves the availability of service, timeliness of care, and geographic convenience.
You might receive care from a CCN provider if services are not available at your local VA facility or if you live in a location far from a VA facility. When the wait time to receive care is beyond 20 days for mental health services and when you and your health care clinician agree that care from community providers is in your best interest you might be eligible for CCN treatment.
Veterans in a U.S. state or territory without a full service VA medical facility are also eligible for care from local community providers. When the wait time for a service is longer than the standard wait time you’re eligible to seek care from a community provider. Another reason you and your VA clinician may agree that getting care from a community provider is in your best medical interest might be that the nature of the treatment or the expertise available in the community that differs greatly from the expertise available in the VA facility.
Community Care Networks are split across five regions in the U.S. You can receive rehabilitation and behavioral health therapy from community providers. They also cover complementary and integrative health services from in network community providers when the treatment is approved by your VA health team. Some of these integrative services may also be used in substance use disorder treatment such as relaxation techniques and biofeedback or even hypnotherapy.
You are advised to consult with your VA primary care provider so you better understand your eligibility under the Community Care program. Your VA provider can initiate the referral process when you meet eligibility requirements.
What Type of Inpatient Rehab Does VA Community Care Cover?
VA Community Care can cover inpatient substance use disorder treatment when it’s medically appropriate for you.
One criterion that may be used for inpatient or residential care is the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) assessment. This is a comprehensive set of guidelines used for assessment and treatment planning as well as identifying the appropriate level of care. These criteria include your current state of intoxication and potential for withdrawal issues as well as physical health issues and mental health conditions. The assessment also looks at your emotional stability and readiness and interest in changing your substance use behavior.
Once you begin treatment inpatient care may first focus on medical detoxification. Detox may use FDA cleared prescription drugs to reduce the effects of withdrawal. After the addictive substance has left your body you are transitioned into evidence based treatments to address your substance use disorder and mental health condition.
Treatment during inpatient or residential rehab can include cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy along with motivational interviewing. Treatments are intended to identify negative thought patterns and behaviors that support addictive behavior and change those to develop healthier coping strategies.
What Type of Outpatient Addiction Treatment Does VA Community Care Cover?
CCN provides care after it’s approved by your VA healthcare provider and the Community Care Department. A treatment center will perform a comprehensive initial evaluation that helps identify the level of care needed. Your initial treatment may begin in an outpatient addiction program. These programs typically use many of the same therapies offered during an inpatient program but the treatment is less intensive.
Three levels of outpatient care might be covered. The first is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) that provides intensive and highly structured treatment and allows you to go home in the evenings. These programs are sometimes called day programs.
An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) offers greater flexibility while still providing evidence based therapies to address substance use disorders and mental health conditions. You attend fewer hours per week and often have time to meet some of your work and school obligations.
Finally, you may graduate to a general outpatient care program in which you receive outpatient therapy once or twice weekly, including in individual and group therapy settings.
Does VA Community Care Cover Methadone & Suboxone (MAT)?
The VA has been covering some form of medication assisted treatment (MAT) since 2006. MAT can be used during medical detoxification to reduce symptoms of withdrawal and during ongoing treatment for opioid and alcohol use to reduce cravings and reduce the risk of relapse.
The type of medication prescribed depends on the addictive substance. For example, opioid use disorder treatment may include methadone or buprenorphine. A program may also use a combination of buprenorphine and Naltrexone called Suboxone. Alcohol use disorder may be treated with disulfiram or naltrexone or topiramate. Each of these drugs helps you stay stable during treatment and reduces the risk of relapse and overdose deaths.
Does Addiction Treatment Need to Be In Network?
To receive addiction treatment using your VA insurance you must use a VA clinic or get approval for treatment from an approved CCN. Although the VA may assist you with reimbursement for emergency urgent care from an out of network provider, addiction treatment does not generally fall under the category of emergency care.
In certain circumstances you may be able to receive non VA care if you are covered by a second non VA insurance plan. At that point you would be using your non VA insurance as primary and would need to follow the requirements and use the network of that plan.
You must work closely with the treatment center and your insurance providers to understand the requirements for coverage and how to submit claims. In some cases your secondary insurance provider may require a rejection from the VA system before they pay for services.
Does VA Community Care Cover Other Mental Healthcare?
The VA takes mental health care seriously and allows you to receive care from CCN approved providers after approval from VA health services. When you’re unable to get to a VA in person to receive mental health care they also offer an online self help portal and smartphone apps along with telemedicine health programs. When this is not enough CCN healthcare providers can offer crisis support and traditional outpatient therapy for mental health conditions and co occurring disorders.
Co occurring mental health conditions are common with substance use disorders and addiction. This is called a dual diagnosis and requires an integrated approach to care in which both disorders are treated simultaneously to achieve greater success and long term recovery. Mental health conditions can range from anxiety to depression or post-traumatic stress disorder. Veterans may also have issues with military sexual trauma or domestic violence or living with a disability.
What to Do if VA Community Care Won’t Cover the Cost of Rehab
The first step to getting care for substance use disorders and mental health conditions is to work with your VA primary care physician. If the VA is unable to meet your needs you may receive a referral to a CCN network provider. If your addiction or mental health condition does not meet VA criteria you may need to cover the cost of rehab yourself. There are several steps you can take to seek financial assistance.
You may qualify for Medicaid which will help cover the cost of addiction and treatment for mental health conditions. If you or your partner has another health insurance policy you may be able to receive care outside of the CCN and VA network. Many treatment centers have financial counselors who are willing to work with you to find financial assistance to help pay for treatment. Some centers offer sliding scale fees or payment plans when you qualify. Treatment centers that accept federal block grants may have scholarships or grants that do not need to be repaid to cover the cost of treatment.
Crowdfunding or personal loans or friends and family may also help cover costs. You can also consider other low cost rehabilitation facilities such as county or state run programs or nonprofit faith based programs or a program like the Salvation Army that allows you to work instead of paying for treatment.
It’s important to know that not all programs offer the same level of quality care. Check the facility’s accreditation which indicates they met a national standard of care and make sure they are staffed by licensed professionals. You’ll also want to check online reviews. Not all online reviews are entirely accurate so it’s important to look at them as a whole rather than only one or two.
Calls to any general helpline will be answered or returned by a paid advertiser.
By calling the helpline you agree to the terms of use. We do not receive any commission or fee that is dependent upon which treatment provider a caller chooses. There is no obligation to enter treatment.
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