H.R.1248 - Ensuring Continuity in Veterans Health Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1248, the "Ensuring Continuity in Veterans Health Act," aims to amend Title 38 of the United States Code to prioritize continuity of healthcare for veterans under the Veterans Community Care Program. The bill specifically adds "continuity of care" as a factor to be considered when determining the best medical interest of a veteran. This consideration would be integrated into the existing framework of the Veterans Community Care Program.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on February 12, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs. The primary goal is to ensure that veterans receive consistent and coordinated care, even when utilizing community providers.
By emphasizing continuity, the bill seeks to improve the overall quality and effectiveness of healthcare services provided to veterans through the community care program.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R.1248 will likely lead to changes in how the Veterans Community Care Program operates. Healthcare providers and administrators will be required to give greater weight to the continuity of a veteran's care when making decisions about treatment plans and referrals.
This could result in veterans experiencing more seamless transitions between different healthcare providers and settings. It may also lead to better coordination of care and improved health outcomes.
Ultimately, the bill aims to enhance the veteran's healthcare experience by ensuring that their care is consistent, coordinated, and focused on their long-term health needs.
Potential Benefits
- Improved coordination of care for veterans using the Veterans Community Care Program.
- Enhanced continuity of treatment plans, leading to better health outcomes.
- Increased satisfaction among veterans due to more consistent and personalized care.
- Streamlined transitions between different healthcare providers and settings.
- Potential reduction in redundant tests and procedures, saving time and resources.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased administrative burden on healthcare providers to ensure continuity of care.
- Possible delays in accessing care if continuity considerations slow down the referral process.
- Risk of inconsistent interpretation and implementation of the "continuity of care" requirement across different facilities.
- Limited impact if other barriers to accessing community care, such as transportation or provider availability, are not addressed.
- The bill's focus on continuity may overshadow other important factors in determining the best medical interest of the veteran.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it seeks to improve healthcare services for veterans. While the Constitution does not explicitly address veterans' healthcare, Article I, Section 8 provides Congress with the power to provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States, which can be interpreted to include providing for those who have served in the military.
There are no apparent constitutional conflicts arising from this bill. The bill does not infringe upon any individual liberties or rights protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
It falls within the legislative powers granted to Congress.
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).