Bill 118 s 3979, also known as the "Contract Physicians for Disability Examinations Pilot Program Extension Act," aims to amend title 38 of the United States Code to make permanent and codify a pilot program that allows the use of contract physicians for disability examinations. The bill seeks to ensure that veterans receive timely and efficient disability examinations by allowing the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to contract with private physicians to conduct these examinations.
The pilot program was initially established to address the backlog of disability claims and improve the efficiency of the VA's disability examination process. By making this program permanent, the bill aims to provide continuity and stability in the delivery of disability examinations for veterans.
In addition to making the pilot program permanent, the bill also includes provisions for other purposes related to disability examinations. These provisions may include guidelines for contracting with physicians, ensuring the quality and accuracy of examinations, and addressing any potential issues or challenges that may arise in the implementation of the program.
Overall, Bill 118 s 3979 seeks to improve the disability examination process for veterans by allowing the VA to utilize contract physicians, thereby ensuring timely and efficient evaluations of disability claims.