What does the VA consider an emergency?
A medical emergency is an injury, illness or symptom so severe that a delay in seeking immediate medical attention would be reasonably expected to be hazardous to life or health. If you believe your life or health is in danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department right away.
How do I notify the VA of an ER visit?
Providers, Veterans and representatives can utilize any one of the following options to report emergency services:
- Online: Emergency Care Reporting.
- Phone: 844-72HRVHA (844-724-7842)
- In-person: Appropriate VA official at the nearest VA medical facility.
Can I go to urgent care instead of VA?
IMPORTANT: VA can only pay for urgent care if the provider is part of the VA contracted network. NOTE: The urgent care provider will confirm your eligibility.
Will the VA pay for my emergency room visit?
In general, VA can pay for emergency medical care at a local ER for a Veteran’s service-connected condition, or if the care is related to a Veteran’s service-connected condition. VA can also pay for emergency medical care for a Veteran’s non-service connected condition.
Can a veteran go to the emergency department without VA notice?
Veterans do not need to check with VA before calling for an ambulance or going to an emergency department. During a medical emergency, VA encourages all Veterans to seek immediate medical attention without delay. A claim for emergency care will never be denied based solely on VA not receiving notification prior to seeking care.
When to report a veteran presenting to a community emergency room?
Veterans, their representatives, and in-network community providers should report instances of a Veteran presenting to a community emergency room to VA within 72 hours of the start of emergent care. Out-of-network providers are encouraged to notify VA as soon as possible.
When to seek emergency medical care for a veteran?
Emergency Medical Care. During a medical emergency, Veterans should immediately seek care at the nearest medical facility. A medical emergency is an injury, illness or symptom so severe that without immediate treatment, you believe your life or health is in danger.
What is the VA’s policy on emergency department visits?
During a medical emergency, VA encourages all Veterans to seek immediate medical attention without delay. It is, however, important to promptly notify VA within 72 hours of presenting to the emergency room.