Advanced directive
governs end of life

Answer: It is a written statement about medical decisions you want made for you in case you can no longer speak for yourself. The two most common are: living will, a document in which you state your wishes about medical care; and durable power of attorney for health care, which gives the person you appoint the authority to speak for you about your treatment, should you be unable to do this for yourself. You will be asked about your wishes regarding an advance directive at admission. This document, if you choose, will be maintained as part of your medical record and will be reviewed periodically with you or your surrogate decision maker.

Q: I'm planning a trip overseas this summer, with the intent of possibly relocating. Does the Department of Veterans Affairs take care of any medical problems, and provide other benefits outside the United States?

A: VA will pay for medical services for the treatment of service-connected disabilities and related conditions or for medical services needed as part of a vocational rehabilitation program for veterans traveling or living outside the U.S. Veterans living in Canada should register with the VA Center in White River Junction, VT 05009-0001, USA, phone 802-296-6379. Those living in the Philippines should register with the VA office in Pasay City, phone 011-632-833-4566. All other veterans living outside the United States should register with the Denver Foreign Medical Program office, P.O. Box 65021, Denver, CO 80206-9021, phone 303-331-7590. Veterans traveling or living in Germany, Panama, Australia, Italy, United Kingdom, Japan and Spain can call toll free 877-345-8179. Veterans in Mexico or Costa Rico can use the same number but must first dial the United States country code. Information on benefits and services available outside the U.S. can be found at: vba.va.gov/bin/21/foreign/index.htm. You can also obtain more information by calling the VA at 433-0600 for medical questions or 827-1000 for benefit information.