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Veterans Affairs Transfer of Information and Sharing of Disability Examination Procedures With DOD Doctors Act

3/11/2025, 8:06 AM

Summary of Bill HR 555

Bill 119 HR 555, also known as the "Comprehensive Disability Examination Act," aims to make changes to title 10 of the United States Code in order to improve the process for separating members of the Armed Forces who have disabilities. The main provision of the bill is the inclusion of a single comprehensive disability examination as part of the required Department of Defense physical examination for separating service members.

This examination would be conducted to assess the extent of any disabilities that the service member may have acquired during their time in the military. The goal is to ensure that all disabilities are properly identified and documented before the service member is discharged, so that they can receive the appropriate benefits and support.

In addition to the comprehensive disability examination, the bill also includes provisions for the Department of Defense to establish guidelines and procedures for conducting the examination, as well as requirements for reporting and tracking the results. The bill also includes provisions for the Department of Defense to provide training and resources to medical personnel who will be conducting the examinations. Overall, the Comprehensive Disability Examination Act seeks to improve the process for separating service members with disabilities by ensuring that all disabilities are properly identified and documented before discharge. This will help to ensure that these service members receive the benefits and support they are entitled to as they transition back to civilian life.

Congressional Summary of HR 555

Veterans Affairs Transfer of Information and Sharing of Disability Examination Procedures With DOD Doctors Act

This bill addresses the sharing of medical information and disability examination procedures between the Departments of Defense (DOD) and Veterans Affairs (VA). It requires that if a member of the Armed Forces who is required to receive a physical examination upon separation from active duty has or is believed to have a medical condition that may make the member eligible for veterans' disability compensation and benefits, the examination must be performed by a VA-certified health care provider.

If the condition is discovered during the physical examination and the examining health care provider is not VA-certified, the examination must be completed by a VA-certified provider.

An eligibility determination made as part of such an examination shall be binding on the VA and be used as the basis for assigning the member's disability rating.

The VA and DOD shall jointly establish a system to share data and maintain the medical and personnel records of Armed Forces members and veterans.

Current Status of Bill HR 555

Bill HR 555 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 16, 2025. Bill HR 555 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on January 16, 2025.  Bill HR 555's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs. as of February 20, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 555

Total Number of Sponsors
3
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
3
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
0
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 555

Primary Policy Focus

Armed Forces and National Security

Comments

Atlas Kelly profile image

Atlas Kelly

446

10 months ago

I'm so excited about this bill! It's about time that separating members of the Armed Forces receive a comprehensive disability examination as part of their physical exam. This will ensure that our veterans are properly taken care of and receive the support they need. As someone who has family members who have served in the military, this bill hits close to home for me. I fully support this initiative and hope it makes a positive impact on the lives of our veterans.

Catherine Burnett profile image

Catherine Burnett

463

10 months ago

I think this bill is a good idea. It's important for separating members of the Armed Forces to have a comprehensive disability examination. It can help ensure they receive the support and care they need after their service. Plus, it could potentially benefit me or someone I know in the future. Did you know that this bill has bipartisan support in Congress?

Damari Goldberg profile image

Damari Goldberg

396

10 months ago

I'm so excited about this bill! It's great that they're finally going to include a single comprehensive disability examination as part of the required Department of Defense physical examination for separating members of the Armed Forces. This will help ensure that our veterans are properly taken care of when they leave the military. I wonder how this will affect me in the short term?