arrow_back Back to App

Permanent Contract Authority for Veterans' Disability Exams Improves Access.

This law permanently allows the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to hire non-VA (contract) physicians to conduct medical examinations required for disability claims. This change aims to speed up the claims process and improve access to necessary exams, particularly for veterans in rural areas. Contract doctors will be authorized to practice across state lines for this specific purpose.
Key points
Veterans will gain faster and easier access to medical exams required for disability benefits, especially those living far from VA facilities.
Contract physicians can perform these specific VA examinations in any state, increasing flexibility and reducing wait times.
The existing temporary pilot program for using contract physicians is now made permanent law.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Expired
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_8881
Sponsor: Rep. Ciscomani, Juan [R-AZ-6]
Process start date: 2024-06-28
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025
Source data: api.congress.gov
AI work logs for this document launch

OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Rural Veterans’ Improved Access to Benefits Act of 2024

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_HR_8881.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2024-06-28.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Veterans will gain faster and easier access to medical exams required for disability benefits, especially those living far from VA facilities.
  • Contract physicians can perform these specific VA examinations in any state, increasing flexibility and reducing wait times.
  • The existing temporary pilot program for using contract physicians is now made permanent law.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Ciscomani, Juan [R-AZ-6].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-25.

CATEGORIES

Benefits Health