The Department of Veterans Affairs today (August 4, 2025) announced it will improve Veterans’ access to health care by extending the length of new VA community care authorizations to one year for 30 standardized types of care.
The change means Veterans referred by VA to community care for eligible standardized types of care will receive 12 full months of uninterrupted treatment at VA expense before having to obtain a VA reauthorization.
Veterans will benefit from uninterrupted access to essential specialty services, allowing them to focus more on their health and less on navigating administrative requirements. Community providers will be empowered to manage care with fewer administrative barriers and greater flexibility.
Prior to the change announced today, some VA community care specialty referrals were reevaluated every 90 to 180 days, increasing the likelihood of interrupted or delayed care.
“No Veteran should have their health care disrupted by red tape,” said VA Secretary Doug Collins. “This change means better continuity of care, which leads to better health outcomes. It also improves convenience for Veterans and cuts administrative work for VA staff and community care partners.”
Veterans are encouraged to contact their local VA Medical Center Community Care Office for questions to see how these new updates may affect their care.
https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-offers-yearlong-community-care-authorizations-for- 30-services/
Upcoming Events
Open House, Career Fair, and Veterans Resources Fair Wednesday, August 20, 2025, from 11:00am to 2:00pm Presented by Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Home – 56 Outer Drive, Silver Bay Attendees will also enjoy a free car show, complimentary lunch, virtual dementia tours, and an opportunity to visit with Residents of the Veterans Home.
How to create an ID.me or Login.gov account for Veterans Wednesday, August 27, 2025, from 3:30pm to 4:45pm Presented by Operation Volunteers For Veterans (Operation V4V) Public Library – 320 Waterfront Drive, Two Harbors Veterans will learn how to and receive assistance creating am account. Please bring your smart phone or tablet, if you have one, your email account information (to include password), and a photo ID. Treats will be provided.
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall are the Lake County Veterans Service Officers and can be reached at 218.834.8326 or cvso@co.lake.mn.us
Karen Christianson is the Cook County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us
