H.R.3400 - the Territorial Response and Access to Veterans’ Essential Lifecare Act; TRAVEL Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3400, also known as the TRAVEL Act of 2025, aims to improve healthcare access for veterans in U.S. territories and possessions. The bill authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to assign physicians to serve temporarily in these areas. This will be achieved by creating a new section within Title 38 of the United States Code, specifically addressing traveling physicians.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to increased availability of medical professionals in underserved territories. It will also establish a framework for coordinating care between traveling physicians and local providers. Furthermore, it will provide financial incentives to attract physicians to these assignments.
Potential Benefits
- Improved healthcare access for veterans in U.S. territories.
- Enhanced coordination of care between VA and non-VA providers.
- Financial incentives for physicians to serve in these areas.
- Potential for better health outcomes for veterans.
- Addresses a specific need in underserved communities.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential strain on the VA system due to physician assignments.
- Possible difficulties in coordinating care across different healthcare systems.
- Costs associated with relocation and retention bonuses.
- Limited scope, focusing only on territories and possessions.
- May not address all healthcare needs of veterans in these areas.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). Congress has the power to legislate for the territories and possessions of the United States under Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2, which grants Congress the power to "dispose of and make all needful Rules and Regulations respecting the Territory or other Property belonging to the United States."
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).