Veterans Foreign Medical Coverage Equality and Modernization Act of 2025
2/12/2025, 3:44 PMSummary of Bill HR 439
Bill 119 hr 439, also known as the "Veterans Access to Care Act," aims to amend title 38 of the United States Code to ensure that veterans with service-connected disabilities rated as permanent and total have access to hospital care and medical services outside of their home state. This bill is designed to provide these veterans with the necessary medical care they need, regardless of their location within the United States.The Department of Veterans Affairs would be required to furnish hospital care and medical services to these veterans, ensuring that they receive the treatment and support they deserve. This bill is intended to improve access to healthcare for veterans with permanent and total service-connected disabilities, addressing any barriers they may face in receiving the care they need.
Overall, the Veterans Access to Care Act seeks to prioritize the health and well-being of veterans with service-connected disabilities, ensuring that they have access to the medical services they require, regardless of where they are located within the United States.
Congressional Summary of HR 439
Veterans Foreign Medical Coverage Equality and Modernization Act of 2025
This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to furnish hospital care and medical services abroad (i.e., outside any state) to a veteran with a service-connected disability rated as permanent and total who is otherwise eligible for such care if the VA determines certain requirements are met. Specifically, the VA must furnish such care to an eligible veteran if it determines (1) the hospital care or medical services are consistent with the standard medical practice in the United States, and (2) any prescription medication furnished is approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
For any care provided abroad, the VA must ensure (1) reimbursements made to veterans and medical providers can be made by direct deposit; and (2) the VA’s mobile applications provide for digital submission, real-time tracking of required forms, and the availability of specified documents associated with care or services, such as a benefits authorization letter.
