The VA Leads Discussions on Healthcare Acquisition at NCMA Nexus Mission Days

VA Leads Healthcare Talks at NCMA Nexus Mission Days

On December 19, 2025, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) took center stage at the National Contract Management Association's (NCMA) Nexus Mission Days. This annual event serves as a vital platform where government and industry professionals can engage in open dialogues about fulfilling the mission needs of veterans.

The Mission Days initiative aims to provide attendees direct access to agency leaders, allowing for discussions concerning buying priorities and acquisition strategies that reflect contemporary needs. The focus for this year's sessions was two-fold: enhancing the VHA Integrated Healthcare Transformation 2.0 and improving Pharmaceutical Pricing Negotiation strategies pertaining to the Federal Supply Schedule, the VA, and other government entities.

As the federal government's acquisition portfolio has a significant impact on veterans' healthcare, the VA's approach to modernization, pricing strategies, and stewardship of taxpayer resources became the primary topics of discussion. Attendees gained critical insights on how the VA is navigating reforms necessary to support veterans effectively.

Kraig Conrad, CEO of the NCMA, articulated the significance of these discussions, stating, "Mission Days are about hearing the buy signal directly from the source. Having the VA at Nexus gives the acquisition community an opportunity to engage early, ask better questions, and align more effectively in support of veterans and the broader federal mission."

This year’s Mission Days saw robust participation and featured forecasting sessions and structured matchmaking throughout the event. This environment fosters an understanding of mission needs, aligns capabilities, and nurtures relationships that are instrumental in supporting veterans.

Key organizations such as NASA and the General Services Administration (GSA) joined the VA, enhancing the dialogue on acquisitions related to federal missions, and more agencies were anticipated to be involved as the conference approached.

For those not familiar, NCMA plays a pivotal role as a global community with over 100,000 contract management professionals. They are dedicated to enhancing the contract management profession and strengthen connections across related acquisition communities. By providing a platform for open exchange, NCMA drives the innovation and excellence needed in contract management practices.

As the VA continues to address the evolving needs of veterans through innovative procurement practices, events like the NCMA Nexus Mission Days remain crucial. They not only highlight the importance of collaboration between government and industry but facilitate better alignment of resources dedicated to serving those who have served in the military.

Those interested in learning more about future Mission Days or registering for upcoming events can visit the NCMA website for further details.