Improving Veteran Access to Care Act
Summary
The "Improving Veteran Access to Care Act" aims to enhance the healthcare appointment scheduling process within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). It mandates the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish an integrated project team and submit a plan to Congress within one year. The plan should focus on improving the scheduling process for both veterans and VA employees.
Expected Effects
The bill seeks to streamline appointment scheduling through technology and process improvements. This includes developing a self-service scheduling platform for veterans and improving telephone-based scheduling assistance. The ultimate goal is to improve healthcare delivery, access, customer experience, and efficiency within the VA.
Potential Benefits
- Improved access to healthcare appointments for veterans.
- Development of a user-friendly self-service scheduling platform.
- Enhanced telephone support for scheduling appointments.
- Increased efficiency in healthcare delivery within the VA.
- Better coordination with the Electronic Health Record Modernization Program.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs associated with implementing the new scheduling system.
- Possible delays in implementation due to technological or logistical challenges.
- Risk of unequal access if some veterans are unable to use the online platform.
- The plan's success depends on the VA Secretary's ability to effectively manage the project and coordinate with various departments.
- Potential for the new system to preclude or impede a veteran's ability to contact or schedule an appointment directly with a facility or provider through a non-online scheduling process, should the veteran choose to do so.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to improve healthcare services for veterans. Congress has the power to legislate in areas that promote the general welfare of the nation, including providing for veterans' healthcare needs. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States, which can be interpreted to include providing for veterans.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).