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VA Billing Accountability Act
2/6/2024, 2:30 AM
Summary of Bill S 3282
The VA Billing Accountability Act aims to improve transparency and accountability in the billing process for medical services provided to veterans. The bill requires the VA to provide detailed information to veterans about the costs of their medical care, including an itemized statement of services rendered and the amount charged for each service.
Additionally, the bill requires the VA to establish a process for veterans to dispute any charges they believe to be inaccurate or unfair. This process must be easily accessible and clearly outlined for veterans to understand. Furthermore, the VA Billing Accountability Act requires the VA to report annually to Congress on the billing practices and procedures implemented under this legislation. This report must include information on the number of billing disputes filed by veterans, the outcomes of these disputes, and any changes made to billing practices as a result. Overall, the VA Billing Accountability Act seeks to ensure that veterans receive clear and accurate information about the costs of their medical care and have a fair and accessible process to dispute any billing discrepancies. This legislation aims to improve accountability within the VA and enhance the overall experience for veterans seeking medical services.
Congressional Summary of S 3282
VA Billing Accountability Act
This bill authorizes the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to waive the requirement that a veteran make co-payments for medications, hospital care, nursing home care, and medical services in certain situations. Specifically, a veteran may have such co-payments waived if (1) an error committed by the VA or a non-VA facility delayed co-payment notification to the veteran, and (2) the veteran received such notification later than 180 days (18 months in the case of a non-VA facility) after the date on which the veteran received the care or services.
In requiring a veteran to make a co-payment for care or services provided at a VA or a non-VA medical facility, the VA shall notify the veteran not later than 180 days (18 months in the case of a non-VA facility) after the date on which the veteran received the care or services. If the VA does not provide notification by such date, it may not collect the payment, including through a third-party entity, unless the veteran is provided with (1) information about applying for a waiver and establishing a payment plan with the VA, and (2) an opportunity to make a waiver or establish a payment plan.
Finally, the bill requires the VA to review and improve its co-payment billing internal controls and notification procedures.
