As you and your family prepare for your assignment to a remote location in Europe without U.S. Army garrison support here are a few things to consider:

Educational Differences and NDSP Services

As you prepare for your move to remote locations in Europe, please be aware of significant differences in the educational experiences offered by International Baccalaureate (IB) program private schools and Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) schools. IB program schools emphasize a global, inquiry-based curriculum and are not inferior to DoDEA schools. However, the IB program may not be advisable for high school students in their final two years, as its rigorous, specialized requirements may not align with students’ existing educational goals. The alternatives listed below should be carefully considered.

For those eligible, the Non-DoD Schools Program (NDSP) provides various services to support your children’s education, including:

• -Tutoring: Assistance to bridge any educational gaps.
• -Boarding School: Financial support for students in areas without schooling options.
• -Home Schooling: Reimbursement for approved curriculums and materials.
• -Travel funding and more depending on the circumstances.

We strongly encourage you to contact your NDSP representative for tailored advice. These representatives have visited most schools in your area, met personally with parents, and addressed concerns by developing Courses of Action (COAs) to solve them. They are intimately aware of the challenges students and parents face at each location and can guide you to the best educational solution for your family.

Medical Care

The following information comes from our Medical Liaison’s office:

Welcome to your new assignment! Medical access and services in remote European locations differ significantly from those in the United States, presenting unique challenges for military families. Key issues include:

• -Healthcare in most locations is good. But there are cultural differences.
• -Limited availability of English-speaking providers. 
• -Longer waiting times for appointments, especially for specialty care.
• -Fewer local facilities equipped for advanced medical procedures.
• -Navigating foreign healthcare systems and insurance requirements.
• -Many locations cannot use E-Scripts and SMs must purchase medications and file claims.
• -Decreased services at MTFs forces patients to facilities on the host nation network.

To best prepare, familiarize yourself with International SOS, your primary resource for medical referrals and guidance. They can connect you to English-speaking providers and help coordinate specialty care. It's also helpful to keep copies of medical records, ensure vaccinations are up-to-date, and learn basic phrases in the local language for emergencies.

It is crucial that you also get a PHA within 30 days prior to departing your losing unit.

For assistance, contact International SOS at:

Phone (Europe): +44 20 8762 8133
Toll-Free (U.S.): +1 800 523 6586
Email: onlineassistance@internationalsos.com
Website: www.internationalsos.com

We encourage you to reach out to International SOS early to establish a support plan and streamline your medical care experience.

Best regards,

Your U.S. Army NATO Team

Sponsors:

Please access the USANATO Brigade Newcomers Guide for your location in order to provide it to the individual you are sponsoring. If you have additional questions, please contact the following - DSN: 314- 549-5401 Commercial: +49 6111-435495401.