S.275 - Veterans’ Assuring Critical Care Expansions to Support Servicemembers (ACCESS) Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Veterans' Assuring Critical Care Expansions to Support Servicemembers (ACCESS) Act of 2025 aims to improve healthcare services for veterans, particularly through the Veterans Community Care Program (VCCP). It codifies eligibility standards for community care, mandates veteran notification of eligibility, and requires consideration of veteran preferences and needs. The act also focuses on enhancing mental health treatment programs and establishing an online self-service module for care requests and appeals.
Expected Effects
The ACCESS Act is likely to result in increased access to community care for veterans by standardizing eligibility and improving notification processes. Mental health treatment programs will be enhanced through standardized screening processes and improved oversight. The online self-service module will streamline care requests and appeals, potentially reducing administrative burdens and improving veteran satisfaction.
Potential Benefits
- Improved access to healthcare services for veterans through the Veterans Community Care Program.
- Enhanced mental health treatment programs with standardized screening and oversight.
- Streamlined care requests and appeals via an online self-service module.
- Increased consideration of veteran preferences and needs in care decisions.
- Timely notification of eligibility and denial of care requests.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased costs associated with expanded community care access.
- Possible administrative challenges in implementing the standardized screening process and online module.
- Risk of inconsistent application of eligibility standards across different VA facilities.
- Potential for delays in care if non-Department facilities are not readily available.
- Possible increased burden on non-department facilities.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The ACCESS Act aligns with the Constitution's mandate to "provide for the common defence" and "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble) by ensuring veterans receive necessary healthcare. Congress's authority to legislate for the military is established in Article I, Section 8, which grants the power to raise and support armies and provide for a navy. The act does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties outlined in the Bill of Rights.
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).