The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced a significant initiative aimed at improving healthcare delivery for veterans residing in the Freely Associated States (FAS), which include the Republic of Palau, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Marshall Islands. This announcement follows months of urgent collaboration among various government entities, including the White House and the Departments of State, Interior, and Defense.

During a recent government meeting, it was revealed that the VA is set to begin direct coordination with FAS governments over the coming months. This effort will involve a comprehensive environmental scan to assess the current state of hospital care and medical services available to veterans in these regions. The information gathered during this coordination period will be crucial for understanding the local veteran populations and their specific healthcare needs.

The VA plans to work closely with Department of Defense leaders to incorporate their expertise into the care model for FAS veterans. Additionally, the VA will collaborate with the Departments of State and Interior to draft an action memorandum, a necessary step before formal negotiations on international agreements can commence. These negotiations are anticipated to begin between January and March of 2025.

The overarching goal of this initiative is to ensure that veterans in the FAS receive the healthcare they have earned. The VA is exploring various models for care delivery, which may differ based on agreements with FAS governments and existing infrastructure. Furthermore, the VA may seek to partner with the United States Postal Service to facilitate the mailing of prescriptions and controlled substances to veterans in these regions.

In the meantime, the VA encourages eligible veterans living in the FAS to enroll in VA healthcare and continue accessing services at VA medical facilities in the United States, including Guam. Veterans can also benefit from various VA services, including reimbursement for healthcare related to service-connected disabilities, educational assistance, and pension services.

The VA's commitment to enhancing healthcare access for FAS veterans marks a significant step in addressing the unique challenges faced by this population. The agency remains dedicated to ensuring that these veterans receive the comprehensive care they deserve.