Orlando VA benefits for acupuncture and medical massage

To find an Orlando outpatient clinic that accepts VA benefits for both acupuncture and medical massage (tui na), you must utilize the VA’s Community Care Network (CCN) under specific eligibility criteria, as the VA does not typically pay for services at non-VA facilities without prior authorization. Your eligibility for community care is governed by 38 U.S.C. § 1703 and VA policy, requiring that you either need a service not available at the VA, face an excessive burden or drive time (over 60 minutes for primary care/mental health, over 120 minutes for specialty care), or experience an unacceptable wait time (over 20-28 days depending on service). Acupuncture is a recognized treatment under the VA’s Whole Health program, and medical massage may be authorized for conditions like chronic pain or musculoskeletal disorders, often under diagnostic codes such as 5237 (lumbosacral strain) or 5003 (degenerative arthritis), with the necessity for massage supported by the *DeLuca v. Brown* precedent requiring consideration of functional loss during flare-ups. Your actionable next steps are: 1) Contact your VA primary care provider or the Orlando VA Medical Center’s Whole Health/Integrative Health coordinators to discuss a referral for these specific therapies; 2) If a referral is approved, the VA’s Office of Community Care will provide a list of in-network CCN providers (like Acupuncture of East Orlando, which participates) that can perform both services; you cannot independently select a non-network provider and expect reimbursement. Attempting to seek care without prior authorization will likely result in denial of payment per 38 CFR 17.38.

**Disclaimer:** This information is for educational purposes regarding VA processes and is not legal, medical, or official benefits advice. Always consult with your VA provider and benefits administrator for guidance specific to your case.