Bill > HR2068

This bill improves patient advocacy services for veterans, particularly those in rural areas, by amending existing law to require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to ensure rural veterans have access to patient advocates. Specifically, the bill mandates that VA medical facility directors work to provide patient advocates at rural community-based outpatient clinics whenever possible. The law requires implementation of these new patient advocacy access provisions within two years of the bill's enactment, and it also requires the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to submit a report to Congressional veterans' affairs committees evaluating how well the VA has implemented these new requirements. The bill, known as the "Veterans Patient Advocacy Act", aims to address potential gaps in patient support services for veterans living in remote or underserved areas by ensuring they can more easily access patient advocates who can help them navigate medical care and address their healthcare needs.

Health and Social Services, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2068/all-info