Veterans Massage

Steps to follow for your Veterans Massage

1. Get a Referral

• Consultation: Begin by scheduling an appointment with your VA primary care provider to discuss your need for massage therapy. They will evaluate your medical history, current health status, and specific conditions that may benefit from massage therapy.
• Referral Issuance: If deemed appropriate, your provider will issue a referral for massage therapy services. This referral is essential for accessing care through the CCN.

2. Authorization

• VA Approval: The referral undergoes a review to confirm that the requested services are necessary and covered under your VA benefits.
• Coordination with TriWest: In Region 4, which includes Oregon, TriWest Healthcare Alliance manages the CCN. They coordinate with participating massage therapists to ensure the services meet VA standards and policies.

3. Find a Provider

• Provider Selection: After authorization, you can select a community provider from the CCN who offers massage therapy services. TriWest can assist by providing a list of qualified, vetted providers in your area.
• Scheduling Assistance: You can schedule your veterans’ massage appointment yourself or request assistance from your VA facility or TriWest. If you self-schedule, inform your VA care team within 14 days to ensure proper documentation and coordination.
  U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

4. Appointment Scheduling

• Direct Contact: With authorization, contact your chosen community provider to conveniently arrange your massage therapy sessions.
• Coordination: To guarantee coverage, ensure that all appointments are authorized under the referral. Maintain communication with your VA care team and the community provider to facilitate seamless care coordination.

Additional Considerations

• Documentation: Ensure your veterans’ massage clinic sends all treatment records back to the VA to keep your medical history up-to-date.
• Billing: Do not pay the community provider directly for authorized services; billing is managed through the VA and TriWest. Be aware of any applicable VA copayments billed separately by the VA.

By following these steps and maintaining open communication with your VA care team and TriWest, you can effectively access massage therapy services through the VA Community Care Network.