Expanding Veterans’ Access to Acupuncture
News / Profession

Expanding Veterans’ Access to Acupuncture

New VA Scheduling System Simplifies Referrals
DIGITAL EXCLUSIVE
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
  • The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is rolling out an important new tool to improve access to integrative care, including acupuncture, for U.S. veterans: external provider scheduling (EPS).
  • This initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize VA scheduling systems and improve coordination of community care.
  • Active NCCAOM board certification is a mandatory requirement for acupuncturists seeking credentialing with the VA.

Editor’s Note: Article submitted by the NCCAOM / ASA.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is rolling out an important new tool to improve access to integrative care for our valued U.S. veterans: external provider scheduling (EPS). This cloud-based technology enables VA schedulers to book approved appointments directly into providers’ scheduling systems – at no cost to practitioners.

For acupuncturists serving veterans, this marks a major step forward by expanding veterans’ access to acupuncture care. EPS eliminates time-consuming phone calls and faxes, reduces administrative burden, and allows you to focus on what matters most: patient care.

How EPS Supports Acupuncturists and Veterans

  • Streamlined Coordination: VA schedulers can book directly into your system in real time, with referral numbers included. This means fewer delays and faster access to care for veterans.
  • Improved Collaboration: EPS strengthens communication and coordination with the VA, making your role as a community provider more seamless.
  • System Compatibility: EPS integrates with over 150 electronic health record (EHR) and scheduling systems, and partners with platforms such as Zocdoc, Blockit and Kyruus, ensuring easy connection with your existing workflow.
  • Security: EPS does not access or store patient files; your records remain fully secure.
  • Full Control: You decide which appointment slots are shared with the VA, giving you flexibility while serving veterans.
  • No Cost: There are no fees, licenses, or software purchases required.

NCCAOM and ASA Partnership With the VA

The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) and the American Society of Acupuncturists (ASA) are working together to support the VA and our veterans in expanding access to credentialed acupuncture care through EPS. This initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize VA scheduling systems and improve coordination of community care.

NCCAOM Certification – A Requirement for VA Credentialing

Please note that active NCCAOM board certification is a mandatory requirement for acupuncturists seeking credentialing with the VA. This ensures that veterans receive care from providers who have met the highest national standards of competence and professionalism.

If you are not currently NCCAOM certified, we encourage you to begin the certification process to become eligible for VA credentialing and participation in programs like EPS. For those who previously held certification, but allowed it to lapse or terminate, now is the perfect time to explore the NCCAOM reinstatement process and restore your credentialed status.

By maintaining active NCCAOM certification, you not only meet VA requirements, but also gain professional recognition, access to opportunities in expanding healthcare systems, and the ability to better serve veterans and your broader patient community.

Getting Started

  • Already VA Credentialed? You can begin using EPS right away.
  • Interested in Becoming a VA Provider? If you are not yet credentialed, but would like to learn more, contact the VA’s EPS Provider Engagement Team at EPSProviderEngagementTeam@va.gov for details on how to get started.

For additional resources, see the EPS Provider Factsheet and EPS Provider FAQs, or email the EPS Provider Engagement Team directly with questions.

Together, NCCAOM and ASA are proud to support this effort to deliver timely, coordinated acupuncture services to veterans. We encourage all qualified providers to explore this opportunity to help expand access to safe, effective care for those who have served our country.

Watch the ASA–NCCAOM Webinar!

Want to learn more about EPS, VA credentialing, and how you can serve veterans through this initiative? Watch the NCCAOM / ASA’s  recent webinar, available here.

November 2025
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