Because of the Veterans Affairs (VA) Maintaining Internal Systems and Strengthening Integrated Outside Networks (MISSION) Act implemented last week, the U.S Department of Veterans Affairs has authorized medical care for eligible veterans at select urgent care clinics across the nation.

MainStreet Family Care, which has an office in Selma, was selected as one of the first clinics in Alabama authorized to offer such services under the VA MISSION Act, which will extend same-day care for minor illnesses and injuries for veterans.

“We were extremely honored when the VA reached out and asked us to be a part of their contracted network,” said MainStreet Chief Operating Officer Emile Hughes. “We believe that by having clinic locations in a lot of rural areas throughout Alabama, the VA sees MainStreet Family Care as a huge asset when it comes to expanding convenient, VA-authorized care to veterans in these areas.”

According to a press release, MainStreet Family Care  has 16 locations across the state that offer extended hours and can ensure disabled veterans “no longer have to wait or travel to see a VA doctor.”

“We are thrilled to show veterans what the MainStreet Family is all about,” said MainStreet Chief Executive Officer Sam Eskildsen. “We look forward to serving veterans, just as they have served our country.”

The new program allows veterans enrolled in the VA healthcare system who have seen a VA doctor or a civilian doctor under the VA Choice program to see an urgent care doctor at no cost if the veteran is eligible for the benefit, the provider is part of the VA’s contracted network of community providers and the services are not excluded under the benefit, such as preventative care and dental services.

It is recommended that veterans consult with the VA to ensure that they are eligible for the benefit and that the treatment they seek is covered under the program – if veterans visit an urgent care provider when they are not eligible, or get medical treatment not covered under the new program, they will be responsible for any fees accrued.

All of MainStreet Family Care’s clinics are authorized by the VA, including locations in Arab, Centre, Andalusia, Eufaula and Selma.

For more information on MainStreet Family Care visit www.mainstreetfamilycare.com. For more information on the VA MISSION Act, www.va.gov.