• Apply through the VA’s Credentialing System: Chiropractors must apply through the VA’s credentialing and privileging process. This process is managed by the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), the division of the VA that provides healthcare services to veterans. The goal is to ensure that chiropractors meet the VA’s high standards for providing care to veterans.
• Submit Required Documentation: Chiropractors need to submit a series of documents to be credentialed. These documents typically include:
  • Proof of licensure: Chiropractors must be licensed to practice in the state where they plan to provide services.
  • Education and training records: Chiropractic degree and any relevant continuing education, especially in areas relevant to military and veteran care.
  • Malpractice insurance: Evidence of liability insurance coverage.
  • Background check: A criminal background check and drug screening are part of the process to ensure that the practitioner meets the VA’s eligibility standards.

Complete Application Forms: Chiropractors need to fill out specific VA forms, including the VA Form 10-2850C (Application for Health Professions Trainee) and other supporting documentation.

• Chiropractic Services at the VA: The VA has been integrating chiropractic care into its services since the 2000s, and it is recognized as an important part of the treatment for conditions like musculoskeletal pain, spinal disorders, and injuries common among veterans. However, the availability of chiropractic care varies from facility to facility.
• VA Guidelines for Chiropractic Care: The VA has specific chiropractic care guidelines for practitioners. Chiropractors must be familiar with these guidelines to ensure they are offering appropriate care for conditions specific to veterans, such as:
  • Chronic pain (e.g., back pain, neck pain, joint pain)
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and how chiropractic can help manage associated symptoms (like tension or musculoskeletal pain)
  • Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
  • Spinal injuries and mobility issues

Once credentialed, chiropractors can apply for clinical privileges at VA facilities. Clinical privileges allow chiropractors to deliver care within the VA system, ensuring they are authorized to treat veterans with specific conditions.

• Application for Clinical Privileges: Chiropractors may need to apply for clinical privileges through the VA’s Provider Enrollment, Chain, and Ownership System (PECOS) or the specific VA facility’s credentialing office. This is where the chiropractor’s training, experience, and clinical expertise are reviewed, and the privileges to provide care (adjustments, rehabilitation, etc.) are granted.
• Workplace Integration: Chiropractors may integrate into multidisciplinary teams within the VA system, working alongside other health professionals (e.g., physical therapists, pain management specialists, and mental health professionals) to provide comprehensive care for veterans.

• VA Payment for Chiropractic Care: Chiropractors may receive payment for services through fee-for-service arrangements, particularly if they are working in the Community Care Network (CCN). They may also work as part of a contractual agreement with VA facilities for specific services. VA payment systems follow a specific reimbursement structure, and chiropractors should be familiar with these payment guidelines.
• Billing and Coding: Chiropractors must follow specific billing and coding practices when submitting claims for payment to the VA. This includes using the appropriate CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) codes for chiropractic services.