Women Veterans can now schedule appointments directly with gynecology specialists without a referral VA Provider

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) last month announced that women Veterans can now schedule appointments directly with VA gynecology providers without a referral from a primary care provider.

The new, streamlined process took effect on December 4, 2025 and eliminates the previous requirement for a PCP referral to access VA gynecology care. Instead, enrolled women Veterans can schedule an appointment directly with a VA gynecology specialist if they choose.

The change will better serve the more than 1 million women Veterans who are enrolled in VA health care.

“This is what it looks like when VA is focused on putting Veterans first,” said VA Secretary Doug Collins. “By relentlessly focusing on customer service and convenience, we are building a department that works better for the men and women we are charged with serving.”