The Senate voted unanimously Wednesday to pass bipartisan legislation that would improve veterans' access to telemedicine services as provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The Veterans E-Health and Telemedicine Support Act (S. 925), introduced by Sens. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, and Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, proposes to expand telemedicine services for veterans and provide telemedicine across state lines. Providers at the VA would be able to practice telemedicine across state lines if they are qualified and practice within the scope of their authorized duties.
"All of our veterans must have access to quality and timely care, including life-saving mental health treatment, regardless of where they live," Ms. Ernst said in a press release.
Ms. Hirono concurred: "I urge the swift enactment of the bill and will continue to fight to ensure Hawaii veterans can access the care they need from a strong, well-resourced VA system."
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