It's 40 miles or a three month wait for services (regardless of distance). The verification process is through Veteran's Choice, administered by Tri-West Healthcare. Taking the "40 mile" program doesn't affect your illegibility for direct VA services (many vets keep their VA doc and see a local doc as well).
There are many CBOC's (community based outpatient clinics, all VA employees) in outlying areas and suburbs.
Call the VA and ask for non VA care office or fee basis office. You may be able to see someone else and have them bill the VA.
I think I read somewhere of 40 miles..there are some in Anaheim and other places
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