What a gastroenterologist does
Gastroenterologists treat the digestive system: acid reflux, ulcers, Crohn's disease and colitis, liver disease, and colon cancer screening. They perform colonoscopies and upper endoscopies, usually at a hospital or ambulatory endoscopy center.
What CHAMPVA covers for gastroenterology
GI consults, endoscopy, and treatment of digestive disease are covered under CHAMPVA's standard rules, and diagnostic procedures need no advance approval when medically necessary. Regulation covers colorectal cancer screening as a preventive service. Procedures done at a Medicare-participating hospital fall under the rule that the hospital must accept CHAMPVA; independent endoscopy centers decide for themselves, so confirm with their billing office.
Find gastroenterologists who can bill CHAMPVA, by state
Pick your state. The search opens with the Gastroenterology filter already selected and shows real practice locations from the federal NPPES registry, with street addresses and local phone numbers. Then call with the 20-second script to confirm CHAMPVA.
Common questions
Does CHAMPVA cover colonoscopies?
Yes. Colorectal cancer screening is a covered preventive service under federal regulation, and diagnostic colonoscopies are covered medical care.
Do I need a referral to see a gastroenterologist with CHAMPVA?
No. CHAMPVA does not require referrals for specialists or diagnostic tests.
Does CHAMPVA cover treatment for Crohn's disease or colitis?
Yes. Medically necessary treatment, including specialty medications under the pharmacy rules, is covered.
Related guides
Sources
- CHAMPVA care: what is covered and what it costs (VA.gov)
- Getting care through CHAMPVA: network, referrals, and preauthorization (VA.gov)
- CHAMPVA provider fact sheet, VA IB-10-1587 (PDF)
- 38 CFR 17.272, CHAMPVA benefit limitations and exclusions (eCFR)
General information, not medical or insurance advice. Coverage rules are set by the VA and federal regulation and can change; confirm with CHAMPVA at 800-733-8387 before treatment.