Us Congress House Bill HB228

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/23
• Refer: 1/9/23
• Refer: 2/8/23

Caption

Veterans Affairs Transfer of Information and Sharing of Disability Examination Procedures With DOD Doctors Act This bill addresses the sharing of medical information and disability examination procedures between the Departments of Defense (DOD) and Veterans Affairs (VA). It requires that if a member of the Armed Forces who is required to receive a physical examination upon separation from active duty has or is believed to have a medical condition that may make the member eligible for veterans' disability compensation and benefits, the examination must be performed by a VA-certified health care provider. If the condition is discovered during the physical examination and the examining health care provider is not VA-certified, the examination must be completed by a VA-certified provider. An eligibility determination made as part of such an examination shall be binding on the VA and be used as the basis for assigning the member's disability rating. The VA and DOD shall jointly establish a system to share data and maintain the medical and personnel records of Armed Forces members and veterans.

Impact

The implementation of HB 228 is expected to positively impact the transition process for many veterans, facilitating more accurate and efficient assessment of their medical conditions in relation to disability benefits. By defining the roles of certified healthcare providers, the bill seeks to eliminate inconsistencies in evaluating veterans' eligibility for benefits and reduce bureaucratic delays in processing claims. Overall, this measure aims to enhance the quality of care that departing military personnel receive during their transition to civilian life.

Summary

House Bill 228, known as the 'Veterans Affairs Transfer of Information and Sharing of Disability Examination Procedures With DOD Doctors Act', amends Title 10 of the United States Code to mandate a single comprehensive disability examination for members of the Armed Forces who are separating from active duty. The bill stipulates that if a separating service member has a medical condition that could qualify them for disability compensation, the examination must be conducted by a healthcare provider certified by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This requirement aims to streamline the process of determining eligibility for disability benefits at the point of separation, ensuring that service members receive appropriate evaluations.

Contention

While the bill presents a progressive step for veteran affairs, there might be notable points of contention regarding the certification process for healthcare providers conducting these examinations. Concerns may arise about the capacity and availability of VA-certified providers to handle increased demand, potentially leading to longer wait times for separating members. Additionally, there may be debates about the data-sharing system to be established between the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs, focusing on privacy and security of medical information, as well as ensuring that the collaboration truly serves the interests of the veterans.