Foreign Medical Program (FMP)
Overview
The Foreign Medical Program provides healthcare coverage for veterans with service-connected disabilities living or traveling abroad.
Pro Tip: Living overseas? The Foreign Medical Program covers treatment for service-connected conditions outside the US. You don't lose your benefits just because you moved to Thailand for the weather.
Eligibility Requirements
Veterans must have either: - A service-connected disability, OR - Active participation in Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) while overseas
Key Note: The Veteran does NOT need to be enrolled in VA Health Care or otherwise using VA health care.
Enrollment Process
- Apply online at VA's registration form (10-7959f-1)
- VA confirms service-connected disabilities
- Receive benefits authorization letter outlining covered conditions
Coverage Details
Generally Covered Services
- Durable medical equipment and prosthetics
- Emergency services
- Hospitalization
- FDA-approved medications for service-connected conditions
- Outpatient care
- Physician-supervised physical therapy
- Skilled nursing care
Explicitly NOT Covered
- Experimental procedures/treatments
- Adult day care, assisted living, custodial care
- Service-connected dental care
- Luxury medical equipment features
- Family planning/sterilization
- Nursing homes, long-term psychiatric care
- Non-medical home care
- Gender transformation procedures
Additional Exclusions
- Late fees on unpaid bills
- Check-cashing fees, postage
- Services from barred providers
- Travel to treatment locations
Healthcare Provider Selection
Veterans may elect any health care provider who is licensed to provide the medical services required. English-language documentation is recommended but not required, though non-English documents may delay processing.
Pre-Authorization Requirements
Service-connected conditions: No pre-authorization needed
VR&E participants: Pre-authorization is mandatory
Cost Structure
Services are ultimately free. Options include: 1. Pay provider directly, then submit claim for reimbursement 2. Provider submits documentation directly to FMP for payment
Important: The VA is NOT responsible for any late fees you may incur due to delays in payment.
Claim Filing Process
- Complete VA Form 10-7959f-2
- Include all requested documentation from Section II
- Submit within 2 years of service date (or discharge for inpatient care)
- Keep copies of all submissions
Recommendation: Submit claims weekly or monthly to avoid timing issues
Contact Information
Email: hac.fmp@va.gov
Online: Ask VA portal
Fax: - 303-331-7803 (outside Canada) - 613-991-0305 (inside Canada)
Mail: VHA Office of Community Care Foreign Medical Program (FMP) PO Box 200 Spring City, PA 19475, USA
Toll-Free Numbers by Country
- U.S./Canada: 877-345-8179
- Germany: 0800-1800-011
- Australia: 1-800-354-965
- Italy: 1-800-782-655
- UK: 0800-032-7425
- Mexico: 001-877-345-8179
- Japan: 00531-13-0871
- Costa Rica: 0800-013-0759
- Spain: 900-981-776
Frequently Asked Questions
Traveling overseas—must I register? Travelers don't need registration, but permanent relocators should notify VHA upon establishing a foreign address.
Coverage upon U.S. return? No. Enroll in VA health care.
Mail medications? No.
Claim denial appeals: Send letter with new evidence within 1 year to: VHA Office of Integrated Veteran Care Appeals, PO Box 600 Spring City, PA 19475
Reimbursement method: Direct deposit available with U.S. bank account; otherwise check by mail.
References
- 38 CFR § 17.35 - Hospital care and outpatient services in foreign countries
- Foreign Medical Program Policy Manual (VHA)