How to Access VA-Covered Massage Therapy:

TLDR; VA Community Care allows eligible Veterans to receive approved health services from providers outside the VA. Eligibility may depend on medical need, distance to care, and other VA requirements. If you live in Seward, Moose Pass, or the surrounding area, you may qualify for the Community Care program. You can receive massage therapy if your VA care team determines it is appropriate and authorizes treatment. Call Anchorage VA Community Care: (907) 257-4700 — press 0, then press 2 or talk with your Primary Care provider to begin the process.

Step 1: Talk with your VA health care provider

Tell your VA primary care provider about your symptoms, how they affect daily life, and how massage therapy might help. Massage therapy may be worth discussing if you have:

• Chronic neck, shoulder, or low back pain

• Muscle tension or limited movement

• Headaches associated with neck or shoulder tension

• Fibromyalgia or other conditions involving muscle pain

• Pain that interferes with sleep, work, exercise, or daily activities

Massage may also help address muscle tension associated with other conditions, such as PTSD or tinnitus, when appropriate. Ask whether massage therapy is appropriate for your condition and whether you can receive it through VA Community Care.

Step 2: Request a referral to Lavina Dickinson

Ask your VA care team about community massage therapy providers in your area. To request care with Lavina Dickinson at Alchemy Wellness, ask your PCP to request her by name: Lavina Dickinson, Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork in Seward, Alaska. This may help avoid referrals being directed elsewhere, such as Arctic Chiropractic. Your VA care team must approve and authorize treatment.

Step 3: Wait for approval and scheduling

Once the referral is approved and sent to Lavina, she will contact you to schedule an appointment. Initial appointments typically have a 4-week wait. 

Your VA authorization will specify the approved services, number of visits, and authorization period. Initial massage authorizations typically cover 12 sessions and are valid for 90 days from date of first appointment.  Treatment must be authorized before it can be covered.

Step 4: Attend your appointments

Treatment goals may include reducing pain, improving mobility and daily function, and potentially reducing reliance on pain medication in coordination with your prescribing provider.

Typically, 12 visits are authorized at a time, although the number varies by authorization. If additional treatment is needed, Lavina can work with the VA to request further approval. Ongoing care is subject to VA authorization.

You deserve to understand your options and participate in decisions about your care.

Please note: VA Community Care eligibility, coverage, and authorization are determined by the VA. This guide does not guarantee eligibility or payment for services.