VA Community Care Referral and Authorization Checklist
Last Updated: November 5, 2026
A practical tool for a complex process
Simplifying a complex process : NCODA members developed a practical, step-by-step checklist to help community oncology practices navigate VA Community Care referrals and authorizations for veterans receiving cancer treatment outside the VA system.
Helping veterans access care : The checklist outlines key VA Community Care eligibility considerations, including specialty care availability, appointment wait times, travel distance, and the veteran’s best medical interest. Final eligibility decisions remain with the VA.
Supporting oncology practices: It guides care teams through gathering essential patient information, verifying referrals and authorizations, confirming approved services, and identifying potential barriers before treatment begins.
Strengthening coordination between the VA and community oncology: The checklist emphasizes communication among VA clinicians, community oncology practices, and veterans to help ensure appointments, medical records, and authorizations are coordinated.
Promoting continuity of cancer care : Beyond the initial referral, it helps practices anticipate additional authorizations, coordinate ongoing treatment, and establish clear points of contact for follow-up.
A resource designed for real-world use: Developed specifically for community oncology practices, the checklist is a straightforward tool you can build into your existing workflows to support veterans throughout their cancer journey.
What’s inside the checklist
- Veteran and Referral Information: Capture the essential patient and referral details before scheduling.
- Community Care Eligibility: Review the VA criteria that may apply to the veteran’s referral.
- Referral and Authorization: Confirm referral status, approved services, and authorization details before treatment begins.
Built for the whole care team
This checklist is designed for the oncology team members who coordinate veteran care: front-desk and intake staff, nurse navigators, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, financial counselors and authorization specialists, and practice administrators.
Visit the NCODA Veteran Care Resource page to learn more and access resources that are helpful to veteran cancer patients.
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