Veterans Choice Program Sunsets as Community Care Network Launches

Posted on May 29, 2019 by Roni Falck

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is shifting the way in which it works with non-Veterans Affairs (VA) providers to expand the provider network and improve customer service for veterans and timeliness of payments for providers.  

Currently, clients may attend a non-VA program as part of the Veterans Choice Program. This program is expected to sunset on June 6 and be replaced by Community Care Networks (CCNs). CCNs, which are anticipated to launch later in June, will be managed by a separate contractor responsible for contracting and payments for community-based providers.

UnitedHealthcare/Optum will manage the Community Care Network for Minnesota and is currently in the process of developing its provider network. In preparation for the interim weeks, providers should complete Veteran Care Agreements as a stopgap measure to ensure proper reimbursement for services provided. 

An FAQ has been developed with information accurate as of May 28.  Updated information will be shared as soon as it becomes available.

I would like to be part of the Community Care Network but haven’t heard from UnitedHealthcare.

Providers who have not heard from UnitedHealthcare can email the mailbox below to get information about becoming part of the Community Care Network. vaccnprovidercontracting@optum.com

How quickly will contracts be effective?

The roll out schedule is pending.

How will providers bill?

Claims will be filed electronically directly with UnitedHealthcare. Billing is a key function shifting to UnitedHealthcare from VA under this model.

When can payment be expected?

Unclear and no timeline is written in to contracts.  Additional inquiries have been made.

Who will determine authorizations and eligible services?

The VA will continue to set authorizations/limits.   

How can I get a Veteran Care Agreement?

Providers should reach out to VA contacts to receive the Veteran Care Agreement and ensure contracting is set to continue once Veterans Choice Programs end.

How long are Community Care Network contracts effective?  Is annual renewal required? 

Contract language suggests that the contracts are open-ended. 

For current outstanding claims, should providers continue to work with the VA or will that shift to UnitedHealthcare?

All current outstanding payments will need to be resolved with the VA. UnitedHealthcare is not handling any backlog issues.