VA CPE Modernization Act
3/19/2025, 6:32 PMSummary of Bill HR 657
Bill 119 HR 657, also known as the "Department of Veterans Affairs Provider Education Debt Reduction Act," aims to amend title 38 of the United States Code in order to enhance the reimbursement of continuing professional education expenses for health care professionals working within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).The bill seeks to address the issue of high education debt burdens faced by many health care professionals within the VA, which can hinder their ability to pursue further education and training opportunities. By improving the reimbursement of continuing professional education expenses, the bill aims to incentivize and support VA health care professionals in their pursuit of ongoing education and training.
Specifically, the bill proposes to increase the maximum annual reimbursement amount for continuing professional education expenses incurred by VA health care professionals. This increase in reimbursement would help alleviate the financial burden of pursuing additional education and training, ultimately benefiting both the individual health care professionals and the quality of care provided to veterans within the VA system. Overall, Bill 119 HR 657 aims to support and empower VA health care professionals by improving the reimbursement of continuing professional education expenses, ultimately enhancing the quality of care provided to our nation's veterans.
Congressional Summary of HR 657
Department of Veterans Affairs Continuing Professional Education Modernization Act or the VA CPE Modernization Act
This bill modifies the program under which the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) reimburses certain full-time health care professionals for continuing professional education expenses.
Under current law, only board-certified physicians and dentists are eligible for such reimbursement. The bill expands the program to require reimbursement for various specified full-time health care professionals (e.g., registered nurses) and increases the amount available for a physician or dentist. Additionally, the bill removes the requirement that an individual be board-certified to receive reimbursement.
The VA may adjust the amount of the reimbursement, so long as the adjustment does not result in a reimbursement of less than $2,000 per year for each specified position.
