According to Veteran Service Officer Lynn Epperson, someone has set up a phone line that mimics the actual Veterans Choice Program.
“This is a scam set up to take advantage of our most desperate veterans, ones in need of urgent medical care,” Epperson said. “The Veteran Choice Program is a healthcare benefit that allows eligible Veterans to receive health care in their local communities rather than waiting for a VA appointment or traveling to a VA facility.”
A press release from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) confirms that a phone line has been set up by an unknown party to potentially “mimic” the Veterans Choice Program (VCP) phone line.
“This imposter phone line may be intended to reach Veterans who inadvertently dial the VCP number incorrectly,” the VA stated. “The VA wants you to know that they are taking this seriously and to keep you aware of the steps we are taking. VHA Office of Community Care (VHA CC) has reported the “mimic” line to the VA Office of Inspector General for a possible civil or criminal investigation.”
“Mimic” Phone Line
The phone line established to “mimic” the VCP phone line is 1-800-606-8198 (the correct number uses the 866 area code, not 800).
You know you have reached the wrong VCP phone line when:
- The phone line offers callers a $100 rebate if the caller provides a credit card.
- The phone line does not state the caller has reached U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or the VCP phone line.
Be aware that this phone number incorrectly confirms callers have reached the VCP if the caller asks that question.
Actual VCP Phone Line
The correct VCP phone line is 1-866-606-8198. This line is for Veterans to check their eligibility for the VCP and ask questions about the program.
If you are unsure if you have reached the correct phone line, hang up and dial 1-866-606-8198 again. The phone line will state the called has reach the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.