The bill, which passed 20 votes to 2, would allow veterans greater access to private specialists as well as two private primary care visits per year without a copay. It would also provide $5.2 billion for the VA Choice Program, which is set to run out of funding by May 31.
The VA Choice funding would be moved from mandatory spending to discretionary spending, which would not protect it from potential sequestration cuts.
Rep. Tim Walz, D-Minn., who was one of two committee members to oppose the bill, said the legislation “lacks a sustainable source of funding to ensure that care is provided and protected in the long term,” according to The Hill.
More articles on leaderhsip and management:
Carilion Clinic President and CEO Nancy Agee to head AHA board: 6 things to know
Former CMS head Andy Slavitt’s venture firm to back startups serving America’s poorest
Proposed Utica hospital poses significant environmental impacts, officials say
