Bill > HR5981

This bill aims to improve billing practices and provide financial relief for veterans when the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) makes administrative errors. Specifically, the bill creates a two-year period during which the VA Secretary can waive copayment requirements for veterans if the VA or its employees caused a delay in notifying the veteran about a required payment. For hospital care, medical services, and medications, if a veteran receives notification more than 180 days after receiving care, they may be eligible for a waiver. The bill also establishes new billing procedures requiring the VA to notify veterans about required payments within 180 days for VA facility care and within 18 months for care at non-VA facilities. If the VA fails to meet these notification timelines, they cannot collect payment unless they provide the veteran with information about potential waivers and payment plans. Additionally, the VA is required to review its internal billing controls and notification procedures within 180 days of the bill's enactment to reduce late notifications. These provisions are designed to protect veterans from unexpected medical bills and improve the VA's administrative processes, with the new rules set to expire two years after the bill's enactment.

Health and Social Services, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5981/all-info