Veterans

Struggling to Navigate the VA for Addiction Treatment? Get the Step-by-Step Guide Veterans Trust

If you're a Veteran struggling with substance misuse or addiction, it can be difficult to know where to go for help. Start now by filling out our contact form and we’ll send you our free Veteran Addiction Treatment Guide.

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Getting Help Shouldn’t Be Difficult—But Navigating the VA System Can Be Confusing

If you are a Veteran battling drug and alcohol addiction and have decided to look into treatment, you might have questions about treatment options and how to pay for rehab using your Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits–but may be running into obstacles, such as:

  • Long hold and wait times with the VA.
  • Unclear process for referrals and consults.
  • No nearby VA facilities for your needs.
  • Unsure if the VA will cover treatment.
  • Feeling alone while trying to get help.

At American Addiction Centers (AAC), our Veteran Liaisons are here to help you navigate the VA system and find the treatment you need.

veteran treatment

What You’ll Learn in This Free Guide

Our free guide can help Veterans and their loved ones learn more about: 

  • Ways that AAC can assist you with your journey to treatment (from checking enrollment status, to getting a mental health consult, and more).
  • When you may be treated by the VA, or by a Community Care Partner like AAC.
  • What the drug and alcohol addiction treatment process may look like.
  • How to get in contact with an AAC Veteran Liaison.
Salute to Recovery Guide

You’re Not Alone–Our Veteran Liaisons Have Your Back

Our Veteran Liaisons know what it’s like to be in your shoes. AAC Veteran Liaisons are either Veterans themselves, family members of Veterans, or have worked closely with Veterans.

American Addiction Centers is a Community Care Partner that works closely with Veterans Affairs. From contacting the VA to travel logistics, we can help you every step of the way.

AAC Veteran Liaisons

Get Your Free Veteran Addiction Treatment Guide Now

All discussions with our Veteran Liaisons are confidential (private patient information is protected by HIPAA).

Contacting us is 100% free; there is no obligation to begin treatment. 

Still Have Questions or Need Help Now?

When you’re ready to reach out, our Veteran Liaisons are standing by.

We’re ready to assist you 24/7 whether you have questions about our rehab centers, treatment options, or just want to talk.

Call

veteran rehab
Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access VA addiction treatment as a veteran?

Step 1: Verify your eligibility at VA.gov or by calling 1-800-827-1000. Step 2: Enroll in VA healthcare if not already enrolled (eligibility is based on service history and other criteria). Step 3: Contact your local VA medical center (VAMC) and request a substance use disorder evaluation. Step 4: Work with your VA care team to develop a treatment plan. Step 5: If VA cannot provide timely care, request a MISSION Act community care referral to an approved provider like AAC.

What is the first step to getting addiction help through the VA?

The first step is to contact your local VA Medical Center (VAMC) or VA Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) and request a substance use disorder evaluation. You can also call the VA's main line at 1-800-827-1000. If you are in crisis, call 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line—they can also connect you with VA mental health services.

How do I get a MISSION Act community care referral for addiction treatment?

You must first request care from your VA provider (your primary care team or mental health provider). If VA cannot meet access standards—typically within 20 days for primary care or 28 days for specialty care—you may qualify for a community care referral. Ask your VA provider or patient advocate to initiate a MISSION Act referral to an approved community care provider like AAC.

What if the VA says I'm not eligible for community care?

If your community care request is denied, you can request a review through the VA's clinical appeals process. A patient advocate at your VAMC can assist with this. Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) like the DAV, VFW, or American Legion can also help advocate on your behalf. AAC's veteran liaisons are familiar with this process and can provide guidance.

How long does it take to get VA approval for addiction treatment?

Initial VA appointments for SUD evaluation typically take days to several weeks depending on your VAMC's capacity. MISSION Act community care referrals may take several additional business days to process. If you are in crisis or need urgent care, the VA crisis line (988, press 1) can facilitate faster access to care. AAC's veteran liaisons can also help expedite the MISSION Act referral process.

Can I download a guide to navigating the VA for addiction treatment?

Yes. VeteranAddiction.org offers a free downloadable guide that walks veterans step-by-step through the process of accessing VA addiction treatment, understanding the MISSION Act, and working with AAC's veteran liaisons. The guide is available on this page and can be shared with family members and caregivers.