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Veterans' Healthcare Improvement: Faster Access and Mental Health Support

This act aims to significantly improve veterans' access to healthcare, including specialized mental health care. It introduces shorter waiting times for appointments, facilitates the use of non-Department of Veterans Affairs facilities, and streamlines the appeal process for denied services. The changes are designed to provide veterans with more flexible and comprehensive care tailored to their individual needs.
Key points
Reduced maximum driving time and waiting periods for primary and specialty care appointments outside the Department of Veterans Affairs system.
Veterans will be informed about community care options and their right to appeal denied services.
Implementation of a standardized screening process for mental health treatment programs, prioritizing urgent cases and allowing for non-Department care if no VA spots are available.
Launch of a pilot program enabling veterans direct access to outpatient mental health and substance use services without referral.
Creation of an interactive online module for veterans to request appointments, track referrals, and appeal decisions.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Introduced
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_740
Sponsor: Rep. Bost, Mike [R-IL-12]
Process start date: 2025-01-28
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Veterans’ ACCESS Act of 2025

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_HR_740.

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 2025-01-28.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Reduced maximum driving time and waiting periods for primary and specialty care appointments outside the Department of Veterans Affairs system.
  • Veterans will be informed about community care options and their right to appeal denied services.
  • Implementation of a standardized screening process for mental health treatment programs, prioritizing urgent cases and allowing for non-Department care if no VA spots are available.
  • Launch of a pilot program enabling veterans direct access to outpatient mental health and substance use services without referral.
  • Creation of an interactive online module for veterans to request appointments, track referrals, and appeal decisions.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Introduced.

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. Bost, Mike [R-IL-12].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-23.

CATEGORIES

Health Benefits