The U.S. Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery (BUMED) conducted a ceremonial ribbon-cutting for its new Navy Medicine Records Activity (NMRA) detachment, July 15.

Rear Adm. Elaine C. Wagner, director, BUMED readiness and health, cut the ribbon signifying the official opening of NMRA.

"The retirement of complete and accurate service treatment records (STRs) are critically important for Sailors and Marines seeking Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits after their military careers," said Wagner. "The new NMRA is vital to this process."

On Jan. 1, 2014, Navy Personnel Support Detachment shifted the STR responsibility to Navy Medicine. In response, BUMED established NMRA in order to streamline the STR transfer process.

NMRA ensures timely transfer of STRs to the VA within 45 calendar days in support of Navy veterans filing a VA claim.

"Ensuring our service members experience an orderly transition to civilian life and keep the benefits they've earned is of paramount importance," said Wagner. "While on active duty, medical and dental records are critical elements to ensure the readiness and health of our Sailors and Marines."

Following separation or retirement, these records become a component of their health care documentation.

A complete STR includes all service-provided medical and dental documentation, civilian-provided medical and dental documentation, a printed copy of the service member's electronic health record file and a Service Treatment Record Certification (DD Form 2963).

Navy Medicine is a global health care network of 63,000 personnel that provide health care support to the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, their families and veterans in high operational tempo environments, at expeditionary medical facilities, medical treatment facilities, hospitals, clinics, hospital ships and research units around the world.

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