Veteran Healthcare Improvement: Faster Access and Better Quality
This act aims to improve veterans' access to healthcare outside Department of Veterans Affairs facilities. It sets specific time and distance limits for appointments, ensures better information about available services, and strengthens veterans' right to choose their treatment location and method. This should make it easier for veterans to access medical care and increase their satisfaction with services.
Key points
Veterans will gain the right to receive care outside VA facilities if appointment wait times or facility distances exceed set limits (e.g., 20 days or 30-minute drive for primary care).
The Department of Veterans Affairs will be required to inform veterans about their eligibility for community care and how to appeal denials of care.
The act mandates considering veterans' preferences regarding where and how to seek care, as well as their need for caregiver assistance.
A pilot program will be established to improve care coordination, reduce no-show appointments, and incentivize specialists to participate in the veteran community care program.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_3520
Sponsor: Rep. Miller-Meeks, Mariannette [R-IA-1]
Process start date: 2023-05-18