Improving VA Telephone Communication and Establishing Regional Call Centers
This Act aims to significantly improve how the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) communicates with veterans via telephone. Veterans will receive calls regarding benefits and services from a single, recognizable number with clear caller ID branding, enhancing security and trust. Furthermore, the law mandates the establishment of regional call centers across different time zones to streamline health care appointments and referrals, reducing wait times for assistance.
Key points
All calls from the VA to veterans must originate from a single, well-known telephone number with clear caller ID branding indicating the call is from the VA (Deadline: January 1, 2026).
Veterans will be better protected against phone scams by easily identifying official Department calls.
Requirement to establish at least one call center for health care appointments and referrals in each of the six US time zones (Eastern, Central, Mountain, Pacific, Alaska, Hawaii) by January 1, 2026.
Improved access to health care through better telephone service and reduced waiting times for appointment and referral information.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_4332
Sponsor: Sen. Sullivan, Dan [R-AK]
Process start date: 2024-05-14