Veterans Care International: What It Is and How FMP Works
Veterans Care International (VCI) is a private veterans clinic in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, that participates in the VA Foreign Medical Program (FMP). FMP reimburses U.S. veterans for care received abroad for VA-rated, service-connected disabilities. VCI is not a VA hospital and does not replace VA health care enrollment. It is one option among licensed foreign providers that FMP-eligible veterans can use.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Veterans Care International (VCI), Punta Cana, Dominican Republic |
| Program | VA Foreign Medical Program (FMP) |
| Eligibility | U.S. veterans with a VA-rated, service-connected disability; FMP registration required |
| Application | Register with FMP; file claims after care |
| Processing Time | Varies; claims must be filed within 2 years of care |
| Official Agency | U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) |
| Required Forms | FMP registration form (VA Form 10-488 replaced 10-7959f-1 in 2026); claim cover sheet VA Form 10-7959f-2 |
| Updated For | October 2026 |
What Is Veterans Care International?
Veterans Care International is a privately owned clinic in Punta Cana that provides medical, rehabilitation, and mental health services to U.S. veterans and coordinates with the VA Foreign Medical Program for reimbursement. It describes itself as a “VA-authorized veterans clinic” participating in FMP. It is not operated by the VA, and it is not the only FMP-linked clinic abroad.
VCI’s services include general medicine, physical therapy, orthopedic treatment, aqua therapy, psychotherapy, psychiatry, and group therapy. The clinic markets itself on shorter wait times than the U.S. system, personalized treatment plans, and a warm-weather recovery environment. It also offers “veterans medical tours” and wellness retreats in the Dominican Republic.
The key distinction for veterans is this: VCI is a provider, not a benefits program. The benefit that pays for eligible care is FMP. VCI can help with scheduling and care coordination, and it may assist with VA paperwork, but the VA makes the coverage and reimbursement decisions.
| Entity | What It Is | Who Runs It | What It Pays For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Veterans Care International (VCI) | Private clinic in Punta Cana | Private owners | Medical services; coordinates with FMP |
| Foreign Medical Program (FMP) | VA health care benefit for care abroad | U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs | Reimburses eligible care for service-connected conditions |
| VA health care (domestic) | VA-operated clinics and hospitals in the U.S. | U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs | Care at VA facilities in the U.S. |
How VCI Works With the VA Foreign Medical Program
VCI works with FMP by treating veterans abroad and helping them submit claims for reimbursement of care related to service-connected disabilities. FMP is a fee-for-service, reimbursement-style program. In most cases, the veteran pays the foreign provider and then files a claim with VA. VA may also pay the provider directly if the provider files on the veteran’s behalf.
The process is not automatic. A veteran must be registered with FMP before or when filing the first claim. The veteran must also have a VA-rated service-connected disability. Care that is not related to a service-connected condition is generally not covered, even if it is medically necessary in a general sense.
The FMP Model in Plain Terms
You have a VA-rated service-connected disability. For example, a 50% rating for a back condition or PTSD.
You receive care abroad for that condition. You can choose any licensed provider in the foreign country. You do not need a referral or prior authorization for most care.
You pay the provider, or the provider bills FMP directly.
You file a claim with FMP using the claim cover sheet and itemized bills, within two years of receiving care.
VA reimburses eligible costs by direct deposit if you have a U.S. bank account, or by check if you have an international account.
VCI fits into step 2 as a provider. It may also assist with steps 4 and 5 by helping veterans organize documents and navigate the FMP process.
FMP Eligibility: Who Qualifies
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityTo qualify for FMP, you must be a U.S. veteran with a VA-rated, service-connected disability and you must receive care in a foreign country. You do not need to be enrolled in VA health care to use FMP. That is one of the program’s most unusual features. You also do not need to be a U.S. citizen, and you do not need to be a resident of the foreign country where you receive care.
Who Qualifies
U.S. veterans with a VA-rated service-connected disability.
Veterans participating in VA’s Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program who need medical or dental care to participate in VR&E, even if the care is for a non-service-connected condition (with a VR&E referral).
Veterans living or traveling abroad, including those who are not enrolled in VA health care.
Who Does Not Qualify
Veterans without a VA-rated service-connected disability (unless they are in VR&E and need care for the rehabilitation program).
Veterans seeking care for conditions that are not related to their service-connected disability.
Care received in the United States, its territories, or Puerto Rico.
Care received in Canada or the Philippines through FMP (those countries have separate arrangements; see below).
Canada and the Philippines Exception
FMP generally excludes Canada and the Philippines. Care in Canada is handled through Veterans Affairs Canada, and care in the Philippines is handled through the VA Manila outpatient clinic and separate authorities under 38 U.S.C. § 1724. If you live in Canada or the Philippines, do not assume FMP works the same way as in other countries. Contact the nearest VA office or embassy for guidance.
What FMP Covers and What It Doesn’t
FMP covers medically necessary care for a VA-rated service-connected disability, including outpatient visits, inpatient care, emergency care, prosthetics, skilled nursing, physical therapy, and FDA-approved prescription medicines. It does not cover general health care, long-term nursing home care, non-medical home care, spa treatments, or care unrelated to the service-connected condition.
Covered Services
Outpatient care (office visits)
Inpatient care (hospital stays)
Emergency and urgent care
Medical equipment, devices, and supplies prescribed for the service-connected condition, including prosthetics
Skilled nursing care
Physical therapy
Prescription medicines approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Services Not Covered
Care not related to the service-connected disability
Experimental treatments and non-FDA-approved medicines
Long-term care in nursing homes, assisted living, or mental health facilities
Non-medical home care or companion services
Deluxe or luxury medical equipment
Health club, spa, or exercise program memberships
Family planning services and sterilization
Gender-affirming care
Care received in the U.S., its territories, or Puerto Rico
Costs FMP Does Not Cover
Travel costs
Postage, late charges, or check-cashing fees
Charges for services you do not have to pay by law
Dental Care
FMP covers dental care only if it is needed to treat a service-connected disability. It may also cover a dental exam and treatment if you are within 90 days of discharge or if your DD-214 does not show a complete dental exam before discharge.
How to Register for FMP
To register for FMP, complete the FMP registration form and submit it to VA. As of 2026, VA Form 10-488 replaces the older VA Form 10-7959f-1 as the registration form. After registration, you will receive a benefits authorization letter listing the service-connected conditions covered for treatment abroad.
Step-by-Step Registration
Confirm your VA-rated service-connected disability. Check your VA decision letter or VA.gov account for your rating and effective date.
Obtain the current registration form. VA Form 10-488 is the replacement for VA Form 10-7959f-1. Confirm the current form on VA.gov before submitting.
Complete the form. Provide your identifying information, contact information abroad, and details about your service-connected conditions.
Submit the form. Follow the submission instructions on the form. VA.gov provides the current mailing address, fax number, and online options.
Keep a copy. Record the date you submitted the registration.
Watch for your authorization letter. The letter confirms the conditions covered and the rehabilitation status if applicable.
Registration is free. You do not need to pay a service to register for FMP. Third-party clinics may offer assistance, but the registration itself is a VA process.
How to File an FMP Claim
To file an FMP claim, submit VA Form 10-7959f-2 as a cover sheet with itemized billing statements, proof of payment, and supporting documents within two years of receiving care. You can file online through VA.gov if you have a verified Login.gov or ID.me account. You can also fax or mail the claim.
What You Need
Itemized billing statement showing the services and charges
Receipt or proof of payment if you already paid the provider
Supporting documents required by FMP
FMP registration completed (you can register in advance or when you file your first claim)
Filing Options
| Method | How It Works | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Online | Upload documents through VA.gov | Veterans with a verified account who want tracking |
| Fax | Send cover sheet and documents to the FMP fax number | Veterans without an online account |
| Send to the FMP address in Spring City, Pennsylvania | Veterans who prefer paper filing | |
| Canada | Separate fax and mailing address for care received in Canada | Veterans receiving care in Canada |
The Two-Year Deadline
You must submit your FMP claim within two years from the date you received care. Missing the deadline can result in denial. If you are waiting on records from a foreign provider, file as soon as you have the itemized bill and proof of payment, and include an explanation if supporting documents are delayed.
Reimbursement and Payment
VA reimburses approved claims by direct deposit if you have a U.S. bank account, or by check if you have an international bank account. As of 2026, electronic payments are available only for U.S. bank accounts, but VA has said it is working to include international account deposits. Reimbursement uses the currency exchange rate from the date of treatment, not the date of the claim.
VCI Services and Costs
VCI provides medical, rehabilitation, and mental health services in Punta Cana, and eligible care for service-connected conditions may be reimbursed through FMP. The clinic does not publish a single fee schedule on its main pages, and costs vary by service. Veterans should ask for an itemized estimate before treatment and confirm with FMP whether the specific service is covered for their rated condition.
Services Offered
General medicine
Physical therapy
Orthopedic treatment
Aqua therapy
Psychotherapy and psychiatry
Group therapy
Rehabilitation programs
Wellness and medical tours
What Veterans Should Confirm Before Booking
Is the service related to my VA-rated service-connected condition? If not, FMP will likely deny the claim.
Is the provider licensed in the Dominican Republic? FMP allows any licensed provider abroad, but licensing matters for safety and for claim review.
Will the provider give me an itemized bill and proof of payment? You need these for reimbursement.
Does the provider file FMP claims directly, or will I pay upfront? Ask before you arrive.
What is the total cost, including travel and lodging? FMP does not cover travel, meals, or hotel costs.
VCI’s marketing emphasizes shorter wait times and a healing environment. Those are real considerations for veterans frustrated with U.S. scheduling delays. But the financial value depends on FMP reimbursement, and reimbursement depends on the care being tied to a service-connected condition.
VA Disability Compensation While Living Abroad
You do not lose VA disability compensation by moving or traveling abroad. VA disability compensation is generally payable overseas, and many veterans live outside the U.S. while receiving it. The main exception is that VA does not reimburse travel costs for C&P exams abroad, and some programs—like the VA home loan—have geographic restrictions.
What Stays the Same
Disability compensation continues, including dependents’ amounts.
VA pension continues for eligible wartime veterans who meet income and net worth limits.
Education benefits are generally payable overseas for approved programs at institutions of higher learning.
Burial allowances are generally payable overseas.
What Changes or Stops
VA home loan guaranty is available only in the United States and selected U.S. territories and possessions. It is not available for homes in foreign countries.
Travel reimbursement for C&P exams is not provided for veterans living abroad.
Some specially adapted housing benefits may have geographic limitations, though the Specially Adapted Housing benefit is available outside the continental United States.
C&P Exams Abroad
If you file a disability claim while living abroad, VA may schedule a C&P exam. VA does not reimburse travel costs for attending exams abroad. In some cases, VA may use records review or accept exams from foreign providers, but the process can take longer. Veterans should budget for travel if VA requires an in-person exam.
Other VA Benefits for Veterans Overseas
Most VA monetary benefits are payable overseas, but health care is the main exception: routine VA health care is provided at VA facilities in the U.S., and abroad the substitute is FMP for service-connected care. Veterans should not assume that VA health care enrollment works the same way overseas.
VA Health Care Enrollment vs. FMP
| Feature | VA Health Care (U.S.) | FMP (Abroad) |
|---|---|---|
| Where care is received | VA facilities in the U.S. | Any licensed provider in a foreign country |
| Enrollment required | Yes | No |
| Coverage scope | Broad, based on eligibility and priority group | Service-connected conditions only |
| Prior authorization | May be required for some care | Generally not required |
| Referrals | May be required | Generally not required |
| Reimbursement model | VA pays VA facility | Veteran pays and files claim, or provider bills FMP |
Survivor Benefits
Surviving spouses and dependent children may qualify for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) or Survivors Pension, and these benefits are generally payable overseas. DIC is for survivors of veterans who died from a service-connected disability or while on active duty. Survivors Pension is needs-based for survivors of wartime veterans who meet income and net worth limits. Survivors living abroad should contact VA or the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for help with claims.
Education Benefits
The GI Bill and other VA education benefits are generally payable overseas for approved programs. Veterans should confirm that the foreign institution is approved by VA before enrolling. The Forever GI Bill and other laws have changed some rules, so check VA.gov for current eligibility.
Housing Assistance
The VA home loan guaranty is not available for homes in foreign countries. Veterans living abroad who want to buy a home in the U.S. can still use the VA loan benefit for a U.S. property, subject to occupancy rules. The Specially Adapted Housing benefit may be available outside the continental U.S. for eligible veterans with certain severe disabilities.
Common Mistakes and Fraud Warnings
The most common FMP mistakes are assuming it works like general health insurance, missing the two-year claim deadline, and failing to tie care to a service-connected condition. A separate risk is provider fraud. VA has suspended some FMP providers in Panama as part of a fraud investigation, and veterans should verify provider status before committing to care.
Common Mistakes
Treating FMP as travel insurance. FMP is not general health insurance. It covers service-connected care only.
Not registering before care. You can register when you file your first claim, but registering in advance reduces confusion.
Missing the two-year deadline. Claims must be filed within two years of care.
Submitting incomplete bills. Itemized statements and proof of payment are required.
Assuming VCI is the VA. VCI is a private clinic. VA makes coverage decisions.
Not checking the Canada and Philippines rules. FMP does not work the same way in those countries.
Paying for non-covered services and expecting reimbursement. Spa treatments, long-term care, and non-medical home care are not covered.
Panama Provider Fraud Caution
VA’s FMP page has carried an active notice about suspended health care providers in Panama as part of a long-term fraud investigation. Veterans who received FMP care in Panama should check directly with VA. The lesson is broader: verify that a provider is legitimate, licensed, and transparent about billing before you pay.
How to Protect Yourself
Ask for an itemized estimate before treatment.
Confirm FMP coverage for the specific service and condition through Ask VA or an FMP representative.
Keep every receipt and billing statement.
Do not pay cash without a receipt.
Check VA.gov for provider suspensions or program alerts.
Use a VSO or accredited representative if you need help with a claim or appeal.
Appeals Process for Denied FMP Claims
If FMP denies a claim, you can ask VA to review the decision through the standard VA decision review process: a supplemental claim, a higher-level review, or a Board appeal. The right option depends on whether you have new evidence and whether you believe VA made an error.
Supplemental Claim (VA Form 20-0995)
Use this if you have new and relevant evidence that VA did not consider. For FMP, that could be a more detailed itemized bill, a medical opinion linking the care to your service-connected condition, or proof that the provider was licensed. This is often the fastest path if you can obtain the missing evidence.
Higher-Level Review (VA Form 20-0996)
Use this if you believe VA made an error on the existing record and you do not have new evidence. A senior reviewer will examine the same file. This is appropriate when the denial is based on a misreading of the claim or the rating.
Board Appeal (VA Form 10182)
Use this to have the Board of Veterans’ Appeals review the decision. You can request a direct review, a hearing with a veterans law judge, or the submission of new evidence. Board appeals take longer but provide an independent review.
An accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO) can help you choose the right option at no cost. VSOs can also help assemble evidence and communicate with VA.
Latest Rule Changes Affecting FMP and VCI
The biggest pending change is the Foreign Medical Program Modernization Act of 2025 (H.R. 467), which would remove the requirement that a veteran have a service-connected disability to receive FMP care. The bill was introduced in January 2025 and referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. As of October 2026, it has not become law.
What the Bill Would Do
Expand FMP eligibility by removing the service-connected disability requirement.
Allow VA to furnish care abroad for veterans who are not in a rehabilitation program.
Require VA to update its payment system for electronic fund transfer reimbursements.
Require VA to assess contracting with non-VA entities to build a provider network abroad.
What Has Already Changed
FMP claims can be filed online through VA.gov with a verified Login.gov or ID.me account.
VA Form 10-488 replaces VA Form 10-7959f-1 as the FMP registration form.
VA Form 10-7959f-2 remains the claim cover sheet.
Direct deposit is available for U.S. bank accounts; international electronic deposits are still being developed.
Veterans should not rely on the Modernization Act as if it were law. Until it passes and VA implements it, FMP eligibility still requires a VA-rated service-connected disability (or VR&E participation with a referral).
Country Differences: Where FMP Works and Where It Doesn’t
FMP works in most foreign countries, but Canada and the Philippines are handled separately, and some countries have provider restrictions or payment limitations. Veterans should check the specific rules for their country of residence before assuming FMP will reimburse care.
Canada
Care in Canada is provided through Veterans Affairs Canada, not FMP. If you receive care in Canada, the claim process is different. VA’s FMP page lists a separate fax number and mailing address for Canada claims.
Philippines
The Philippines has a VA outpatient clinic in Manila and special statutory authority under 38 U.S.C. § 1724. FMP does not work the same way there. Veterans in the Philippines should contact the VA Manila clinic for guidance.
Other Countries
In most other countries, FMP operates as described in this article: you choose a licensed provider, pay for care, and file a claim. Some countries may have banking or payment limitations, and VA may suspend specific providers if fraud is suspected. Check VA.gov for current alerts.
Common Questions
What is Veterans Care International?
Veterans Care International is a private clinic in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, that provides medical and mental health services to veterans and participates in the VA Foreign Medical Program. It is not a VA facility and does not make VA eligibility decisions.
Is Veterans Care International part of the VA?
No. VCI is a privately owned clinic. It is authorized to participate in FMP, but the VA administers FMP and decides what care is covered and reimbursed.
Does FMP pay for VCI care automatically?
No. FMP reimburses eligible care for service-connected conditions after a claim is filed. You must be registered with FMP, and the care must be related to your VA-rated disability.
Do I need to be enrolled in VA health care to use FMP?
No. FMP does not require VA health care enrollment. You need a VA-rated service-connected disability, and you must register for FMP.
What form do I use to register for FMP in 2026?
VA Form 10-488 replaces VA Form 10-7959f-1 as the FMP registration form. VA Form 10-7959f-2 remains the claim cover sheet. Confirm the current form on VA.gov before submitting.
How long do I have to file an FMP claim?
You must file within two years of receiving care. Claims filed after the deadline may be denied.
Does FMP cover care in Canada or the Philippines?
FMP generally excludes Canada and the Philippines. Care in Canada is handled through Veterans Affairs Canada, and care in the Philippines is handled through the VA Manila clinic and separate authorities.
Does moving abroad affect my VA disability compensation?
No. VA disability compensation is generally payable overseas. You do not lose it by moving or traveling abroad. Some programs, like the VA home loan, have geographic restrictions.
What happens if my FMP claim is denied?
You can file a supplemental claim with new evidence, request a higher-level review, or appeal to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals. An accredited VSO can help you choose the right option.
Is the Foreign Medical Program Modernization Act law?
No. H.R. 467 was introduced in January 2025 and referred to committee. As of October 2026, it has not become law. FMP eligibility still requires a service-connected disability or VR&E participation.
Key Takeaways
Veterans Care International is a private clinic in Punta Cana that participates in the VA Foreign Medical Program; it is not the VA.
FMP reimburses veterans for care abroad related to VA-rated, service-connected disabilities.
You do not need to be enrolled in VA health care to use FMP, but you must register and file claims within two years.
VA Form 10-488 replaces VA Form 10-7959f-1 as the FMP registration form; VA Form 10-7959f-2 is the claim cover sheet.
FMP covers outpatient, inpatient, emergency, prosthetic, skilled nursing, physical therapy, and FDA-approved prescription costs for service-connected conditions.
FMP does not cover general health care, long-term care, non-medical home care, travel, or spa treatments.
Canada and the Philippines are excluded from standard FMP and have separate arrangements.
VA disability compensation continues overseas, but the VA home loan is limited to the U.S. and selected territories.
Common mistakes include treating FMP as travel insurance and missing the two-year claim deadline.
The Foreign Medical Program Modernization Act of 2025 would expand eligibility but is not yet law.
Official Resources
VA.gov — Foreign Medical Program: va.gov/health-care/foreign-medical-program
VA.gov — Getting Care Through FMP: va.gov/resources/getting-care-through-the-foreign-medical-program
VA.gov — File an FMP Claim Online: va.gov/health-care/file-foreign-medical-program-claim
VA.gov — VA Form 10-7959f-2: va.gov/find-forms/about-form-10-7959f-2
VA.gov — Disability Compensation: va.gov/disability/compensation-rates
VA.gov — Survivor Benefits: va.gov/family-and-caregivers/survivors
VA.gov — Decision Reviews and Appeals: va.gov/decision-reviews
VA News — FMP Online Claims: news.va.gov/145900
Congress.gov — H.R. 467: congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/467
USA.gov — Veterans Benefits: usa.gov/veterans-benefits
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