H.R.748 - Removing Extraneous Loopholes Insuring Every Veteran Emergency Act; RELIEVE Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.748, the RELIEVE Act, aims to amend Title 38 of the United States Code to improve veterans' eligibility for reimbursement for emergency treatment under the Veterans Community Care program. Specifically, it addresses a loophole regarding the 60-day period following a veteran's enrollment in the healthcare system. The bill ensures that veterans receiving emergency treatment within this initial 60-day window are eligible for reimbursement, regardless of prior care history.
Expected Effects
The RELIEVE Act will likely increase access to emergency healthcare for newly enrolled veterans. It removes a potential barrier to reimbursement for emergency treatment received shortly after enrollment. This change will apply to emergency treatment furnished one year after the Act's enactment.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures veterans receive reimbursement for emergency care during the initial 60 days of enrollment.
- Simplifies the reimbursement process for emergency treatment.
- Potentially reduces the financial burden on veterans needing immediate care.
- May improve veterans' overall health outcomes by encouraging timely treatment.
- Could lead to increased enrollment in the Veterans Community Care program.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- May increase costs to the Veterans Affairs system due to increased reimbursements.
- Could potentially lead to overuse of emergency services if not properly managed.
- The one-year delay in applicability could postpone immediate benefits for veterans.
- Requires effective communication to ensure veterans are aware of the changed eligibility rules.
- Potential for administrative challenges in implementing the new reimbursement process.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it seeks to improve healthcare access for veterans. Congress has the power to legislate for the common defense and provide for veterans' well-being. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of 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).