How Veterans Can Access Ketamine Therapy for Free

Step 1: Determine Eligibility for VA Community Care

The Veterans Care Agreement (VCA) allows veterans to receive care from private healthcare providers when VA services are not readily available.

You may qualify for VA-funded ketamine therapy at Innerbloom if:

• You are enrolled in VA healthcare
• The VA cannot provide timely access to mental health treatment or IV ketamine therapy
• You receive a referral from a VA provider authorizing care outside of the VA network

To confirm your eligibility, contact your VA primary care provider or VA mental health clinician to discuss treatment options and request an authorization for IV ketamine therapy at Innerbloom.

Step 2: Speak with Your VA Provider & Request a Referral

To access ketamine therapy through the VCA, you must obtain a formal referral from the VA. This referral will serve as an authorization for treatment at Innerbloom.

What to Ask Your VA Provider:

• "I am interested in IV ketamine therapy for my depression/PTSD. Can you refer me for treatment at Innerbloom Ketamine Therapy under the VCA?"
• "Can you provide a written authorization for ketamine treatment through the VA’s Community Care program?"
• "What paperwork or steps do I need to complete to receive this authorization?"

Your VA provider will assess your condition and submit a Community Care consult for approval.

Step 3: Receive VA Authorization for Treatment

Once your VA provider submits your referral request, the VA Community Care office will review the request and issue a written authorization if approved.

Your authorization will include:

• The specific treatment (IV ketamine therapy)
• The number of treatments covered (typically a series of six infusions)
• The period of validity (treatment must be completed within the authorized timeframe)
• Any additional medical documentation or instructions

You will receive this authorization letter via mail, secure email, or fax. Forward a copy of this authorization to Innerbloom Ketamine Therapy so we can begin scheduling your treatment.

Step 4: Contact Innerbloom to Schedule Your Consultation

Once you receive VA authorization, call or email Innerbloom to schedule your initial consultation.

     📞 Phone: 805-321-8471

     📧 Email: Libby@innerbloomslo.com

     📍 Location: Innerbloom Ketamine Therapy, 1242 Monterey St. Suite 130A, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

During your consultation, our providers will:

• Review your medical history
• Explain the ketamine therapy process
• Ensure you meet medical criteria for IV ketamine treatment
• Answer any questions about the experience, safety, and expectations

If you are cleared for treatment, we will schedule your first ketamine infusion.

Step 5: Begin Your Ketamine Treatment Series

Ketamine therapy at Innerbloom typically consists of six IV infusions over 2-3 weeks.

Treatment Plan:

• Infusion 1-6: Administered over three weeks (usually two infusions per week)
• Follow-up evaluations to assess response and progress
• Integration and aftercare support to help optimize treatment benefits

Each IV ketamine session lasts 40-60 minutes, followed by a short recovery period before you are discharged home.

Step 6: Submit VA Claims for Coverage

As part of the Veterans Care Agreement (VCA), Innerbloom will directly bill the VA for your treatment.

To ensure seamless processing:

• Ensure Innerbloom has a copy of your VA authorization letter
• Sign any required consent forms for billing and treatment
• Attend all scheduled sessions within the VA’s authorized timeframe

You will not be responsible for payment, as VA will cover 100% of the cost of authorized treatments.

Step 7: Continue Care & Follow-Up

After your initial ketamine treatment series, our team will work with you to monitor your progress and determine next steps. If additional treatments are needed, we will:

• Submit a request to the VA for continued care
• Coordinate with your VA provider to assess treatment response
• Provide aftercare support to help sustain benefits

Veterans who respond well to ketamine therapy may continue with periodic booster infusions as needed.

Final Thoughts: Take the First Step Today

Ketamine therapy is a breakthrough treatment for veterans struggling with depression, PTSD, and anxiety. Thanks to the Veterans Care Agreement (VCA), you can now receive fully covered IV ketamine treatments at Innerbloom without worrying about costs.

If you’re a veteran seeking fast-acting relief and lasting improvements in mental health, we encourage you to start the process today by speaking with your VA provider and requesting a Community Care referral for ketamine therapy.