Academy Opposes Reimbursement Cuts for VA Community Care Providers

The Academy has reached out to the Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to oppose significant cuts to reimbursement rates for virtually all audiology and audiology-related services in the Community Care Network (CCN) over the past two years (see VA CCN Letter). 

Active military personnel and Veterans are at a disproportionate risk for hearing loss and tinnitus. In 2020, more than 1.3 million Veterans received disability benefits for hearing loss, and another 2.3 million filed claims linked to tinnitus. Many audiologists are pleased to provide hearing-care services to Veterans in their communities by participating in the Veterans Affairs Community Care Network.  

The Academy is concerned that these significant reimbursement reductions, combined with the significant documentation and administrative requirements for participants in the Community Care Network, may ultimately limit the number of providers able to participate in the CCN.