The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides numerous benefits to veterans, including healthcare services. While most veterans are familiar with VA healthcare benefits within the United States, many may not realize that healthcare support is available even if they live abroad. The Foreign Medical Program (FMP) is designed to assist eligible veterans by covering the costs of medical care related to service-connected disabilities while residing outside the U.S. Leah explores the key aspects of the FMP, including covered services, exclusions, and how to apply for benefits.

What is the Foreign Medical Program (FMP)?
The Foreign Medical Program (FMP) is a VA healthcare benefit that covers the cost of medical care for eligible veterans living outside the United States. Specifically, it reimburses veterans for medical treatment related to service-connected disabilities. If a veteran has a condition that has been officially recognized by the VA as service-connected, they can receive financial support for necessary treatments while residing in another country.
This program is crucial for veterans who have chosen to live overseas, ensuring they still receive essential healthcare benefits even though they are outside the traditional VA healthcare system.
Who is Eligible for the FMP?
To qualify for the Foreign Medical Program, a veteran must meet the following criteria:
- They must be living outside the United States (including U.S. territories, such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands).
- They must have a VA-recognized service-connected disability.
- The treatment they seek must be related to their service-connected condition.
Veterans who meet these criteria can register for the program and begin receiving covered medical care.
What Medical Services Does the FMP Cover?
The Foreign Medical Program provides reimbursement for medically necessary treatments related to service-connected disabilities. Some of the key services covered include:
Outpatient and Inpatient Care
- Routine office visits and outpatient care.
- Hospitalization for conditions related to service-connected disabilities.
- Emergency and urgent care when needed.
Medical Equipment and Supplies
- Prosthetics, such as artificial limbs or orthopedic devices.
- Wheelchairs and other mobility aids.
- Braces and other medical devices prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Prescription Medications
- The VA covers medications that are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
- Medications must be prescribed for the treatment of a service-connected disability.
Skilled Nursing Care
- Wound care and post-surgical recovery services.
- Medication administration by licensed healthcare professionals.
- Physical therapy to assist in rehabilitation for service-connected conditions.
What Services Are NOT Covered by the FMP?
While the Foreign Medical Program covers a range of medical services, there are some exclusions. The following are not covered under the FMP:
Experimental or Non-FDA Approved Treatments
- Any treatments or procedures not recognized by the VA or U.S. medical standards.
- Experimental drugs or therapies that have not been FDA-approved.
Long-Term and Assisted Living Care
- Nursing home stays or assisted living facility care.
- Adult day healthcare services or home companion care.
- Non-medical home care services, such as housekeeping or personal assistance.
Other Non-Medical Services
- Cosmetic procedures unless required due to a service-connected disability.
- Gym memberships, spas, or alternative health treatments.
- Deluxe medical equipment (e.g., electric beds with remote controls, stair-climbing wheelchairs).
Travel Costs and Administrative Fees
- Transportation costs for medical care, including airfare or gas.
- Postage, late charges, check-cashing fees, and other administrative expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the FMP
Does the FMP Cover Dental Care?
- Yes, but only if the dental treatment is required due to a service-connected condition.
- The VA may also cover a one-time dental examination and treatment for veterans within 90 days of discharge, provided they did not receive a complete dental exam at separation.
Does the FMP Cover COVID-19 Vaccines?
- Yes, the FMP provides coverage for COVID-19 vaccines and related treatments.
Do I Need a Referral to See a Doctor?
- No, veterans can choose any licensed healthcare provider in the country where they reside or travel.
- No prior VA approval or referral is required for receiving care under the FMP.
What If My Medical Records Are in a Foreign Language?
- The VA will translate medical documents into English, but this can cause delays in processing claims.
- To speed up the process, veterans are encouraged to seek providers who can issue records in English.
How to Register for the Foreign Medical Program
To receive FMP benefits, veterans must first register with the VA. The registration process involves:
- Filling out the required forms – Veterans can find the registration forms on va.gov.
- Submitting proof of service-connected disability – The VA will verify eligibility.
- Sending the application via mail or fax to the designated VA office handling foreign medical claims.
Filing an FMP Claim
Once registered, veterans can submit claims for reimbursement. The process includes:
- Receiving medical treatment for a service-connected disability.
- Gathering necessary documentation, including:
- Medical invoices
- Doctor’s diagnosis and treatment plan
- Proof of payment
- Submitting the claim to the VA’s Foreign Medical Program office.
Details on filing claims can be found on va.gov, where veterans can access step-by-step guidance.
Seeking Assistance for FMP and Other VA Benefits
Navigating VA benefits can be challenging, especially for veterans living abroad. While medical professionals can provide guidance on medical opinions related to VA disability claims, veterans seeking official legal assistance should contact an accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or VA-accredited attorney. These professionals can:
- Provide legal advice on eligibility and claims.
- Assist in filing appeals if a claim is denied.
- Help veterans maximize their benefits.
To find an accredited legal representative, veterans can use the search tool on va.gov or call the VA’s 1-800 number for further assistance.
Conclusion
The Foreign Medical Program (FMP) ensures that eligible veterans living outside the U.S. receive necessary medical care for service-connected disabilities. While it covers essential treatments, medical equipment, and prescription medications, veterans should be aware of exclusions such as long-term care and non-service-connected treatments.
By registering for the FMP and understanding the claims process, veterans abroad can effectively access the healthcare they have earned through their service. For additional questions or assistance, veterans should reach out to the VA or accredited legal professionals to ensure they receive the full benefits available to them.
Also read: Rudisill Decision: Big News for Veterans’ GI Bill Benefits!
At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters.
Our purpose is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey.
Understanding the unique challenges veterans face, our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support.
Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim.
Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional.