H.R.1336 - Veterans National Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1336, the Veterans National Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act, directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a pilot program providing hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) to veterans with traumatic brain injury (TBI) or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The program will operate in three Veterans Integrated Service Networks and be funded by donations to a dedicated "VA HBOT Fund". The pilot program is set to terminate five years after the Act's enactment.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would create a pilot program within the VA to offer HBOT as a treatment option for veterans suffering from TBI or PTSD. The program's success and potential expansion would depend on the outcomes of the pilot and the availability of donated funds. The bill also specifies that the HBOT must be administered using FDA-approved or investigational devices.
Potential Benefits
- Provides an alternative treatment option for veterans with TBI or PTSD.
- Focuses on a specific and potentially underserved need within the veteran population.
- Encourages private donations to support veteran healthcare.
- Could lead to improved quality of life for participating veterans.
- The pilot program structure allows for evaluation before broader implementation.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Funding relies solely on donations, which may be inconsistent and insufficient.
- Limited scope of the pilot program (three VISNs) restricts access for many veterans.
- The five-year termination clause may disrupt treatment for some veterans.
- Potential administrative burden for the VA to establish and manage the fund and program.
- The bill does not address the potential costs to veterans if the pilot program is not successful or expanded.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). 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 healthcare services to veterans. The establishment of a pilot program and the use of appropriated funds are within Congress's legislative powers.
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).