Medical Services in Canada for U.S. Veterans

Authorization
The Foreign Medical Program (FMP) Office is responsible for determining eligibility of U.S. veterans for reimbursed medical treatment while traveling or residing in Canada.   The local offices of Veterans Affairs Canada assists veterans in obtaining authorizations for treatment, arranging for treatment (if necessary), and providing information about the medical treatment program.

An authorization to receive reimbursed medical treatment must be obtained from the FMP Office unless an emergency situation exists.

Treatment
Reimbursed medical care for U.S. veterans residing or traveling in Canada and other foreign countries is limited to treatment for VA rated service-connected disabilities only.

Generally, as long as the service is medically necessary for the treatment of a VA rated service-connected condition, it will be covered.   In addition, the services must be accepted by VA and/or the U.S. medical community such as the American Medical Association and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

There are some general exclusions to the type of care for which reimbursement will be authorized such as family planning services and sterilization, infertility services, plastic surgery primarily for cosmetic purposes, non-acute institutional care such as long-term inpatient psychiatric care and nursing home care, etc.   Also noted above, prior authorization is required for treatment.   At that time, you will be advised if the type of care requested/required is excluded.   You may visit the FMP web site for further information.

Disability Examinations in Support of Benefit Claims
When required by the Department of Veterans Affairs to support a claim for disability benefits, Veterans Affairs Canada will make arrangement for disability examinations for veterans residing in Canada.   In some instances, arrangements will be made locally in Canada.   In other instances, arrangements will be made at bordering VA medical facilities.   You will be notified by the VA when an examination is required.

Where to Go For Assistance in Canada
U.S. veterans living in Canada may obtain eligibility information by writing or calling any Veterans Affairs Canada District Office or Veterans Affairs Canada, Foreign Countries Operations, Room 1055, 264 Wellington Street, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0P4. (613) 943-7461.

Visit the Veterans Affairs Canada web site to locate the office nearest your residence.

U.S. Contact for Canadian Claims
You may contact the White River Junction VA Regional Office through VA's Contact the VA web page or via the Foreign Inquiry web page.

Questions about or problems using this web site may be referred to the Webmaster, Veterans Benefits Administration.  Please do not use this e-mail for benefits questions.    You should use the Contact VA web messaging form for that purpose.

Thank you.