VA takes first steps for 'veteran choice' program

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) said it will host an "Industry Day" at its Denver Acquisition and Logistics Center to gather input on how best to provide administrative support for the process of issuing the "Veteran Choice Cards" that vets will use to seek non-VA healthcare.

DALC, which provides supply chain management for VA and other federal agencies, is slated to hold the event Sept. 17 as the first step toward implementing the option, which is a key provision of the recently passed Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act.

“We look forward to the opportunity to partner with the private sector to implement this new law and provide veterans with a customer service experience that meets their needs,” said VA Secretary Robert McDonald.

The move comes in advance of the anticipated procurement of a third-party administrator to support creation and distribution of the cards, as well as oversee establishment of a call center to provide information on program details, tracking and monitor usage, claims adjudication and payment, and other services.