Process eases for women veterans needing specialists

On Dec. 4, 2025, the Department of Veterans Affairs announced a significant update to health care access for women veterans. The VA has eliminated the administrative requirement of obtaining a primary care referral for gynecology appointments.

This policy change allows the more than 1 million women veterans enrolled in VA health care to schedule their appointments directly with a specialist, ensuring timely and barrier-free access to essential reproductive health services.

“DAV applauds this decisive move to modernize the VA health system for the women veterans who they serve,” said Naomi Mathis, DAV deputy national legislative director. “Removing the referral requirement eliminates a significant barrier and will ensure women veterans can access the timely, gender-specific support through the VA that they have earned.”

If you have questions or need assistance in applying for VA health care, contact your nearest DAV service office at benefitsquestions.org.