As published in the Ripon Advance.
U.S. Rep. Scott Franklin (R-FL) on July 25 led nine of his Republican colleagues in offering legislation that would prevent disruption in care for United States military veterans who already are receiving healthcare services from private providers outside the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
“Providing excellent care at VA facilities and providing flexibility are not opposing missions,” Rep. Franklin said. “The VA should continue investing in new clinics and recruiting specialists while also protecting veterans’ access to care outside the VA.”
The congressman sponsored the Ensuring Continuity in Veterans Health Act, H.R. 9146, alongside original cosponsors including U.S. Reps. Brian Mast (R-FL), Kelly Armstrong (R-ND), and Mike Bost (R-IL). U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.
“I want to thank my friend and fellow veteran, Rep. Franklin, for his leadership in introducing the Ensuring Continuity in Veterans Health Act,” said Rep. Bost, chairman of the U.S. House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, which is considering H.R. 9146. “This bill would rightfully reaffirm that veterans should keep their community doctors if they are happy with the care they are receiving, with no government bureaucratic headaches getting in the way, no matter who is in the White House.”
If enacted, H.R. 9146 would require that continuity of health care be considered in determining best medical interest under the Veterans Community Care Program, according to the bill’s text.
“It will also provide clarity and certainty for veterans who rely on community care and are concerned they’ll lose their doctor,” Rep. Franklin said.
Specifically, the legislation would allow veterans to continue accessing community care for services they already receive; prevent disruptions for veterans receiving specialized treatments from community care providers, such as mental health care; and provide veterans with the most convenient providers, according to a summary provided by the lawmakers.
“The brave men and women who put on our nation’s uniform are willing to lay down their lives for this country and our flag,” said Rep. Mast. “It’s only right for our government to do everything it can to get them the care they earned and deserve. The Ensuring Continuity in Veterans Health Act is a step in the right direction. It will give veterans more choices when it comes to healthcare and ensure they are not hamstrung by bureaucratic red tape.”
Rep. Armstrong added that in rural areas like his home state of North Dakota, veterans’ access to health care is vital.
“I am proud to cosponsor this legislation and remove barriers to rural healthcare and improve access to mental health services for our veterans who have sacrificed so much for our nation,” said Rep. Armstrong.