Duval Times

Senator Rick Scott has joined Senator Marco Rubio in introducing the Ensuring Continuity in Veterans’ Health Act, aimed at requiring the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to consider continuity of healthcare when determining if a veteran should see a community provider. The legislation responds to concerns that as the VA opens new facilities, many veterans are losing access to the VA’s Community Care Program and their long-term healthcare providers.

Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS), John Cornyn (R-TX), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), James Lankford (R-OK), John Thune (R-SD), and Ted Cruz (R-TX) are also original cosponsors of the bill.

“Our veterans are American heroes who have sacrificed so much in support and defense of our nation and its ideals, and they deserve to receive the health care that works best for them,” said Senator Rick Scott. “I’ve heard from veterans in my state about how important it is for them to continue seeing their community care providers, and this bill will ensure they have the ability to do so.”

Senator Marco Rubio emphasized the importance of mental health care for veterans: “Our veterans have sacrificed so much for this country and often have PTSD or other mental health issues as a result. Addressing mental health issues takes trust and time.”

Senator Jerry Moran highlighted challenges faced by veterans: “I am hearing from more and more veterans in Kansas and across the country who are finding it harder to receive the care they are entitled to from VA.” He noted that this legislation would help maintain relationships with trusted medical professionals.

“When a veteran is denied a Community Care authorization by the VA, it creates unnecessary hurdles for them,” added Senator John Cornyn. “This bill would make ‘continuity of care’ a key factor in determining the best medical interests of our veterans.”

Senator Tommy Tuberville criticized current policies: “Over the last several years, the Biden-Harris VA has deliberately bogged down the community care referral process.” He supports adding "continuity of care" as an evaluation criterion.

Senator Marsha Blackburn stated, “As the Biden administration continues to threaten veterans’ access to the Community Care Program, veterans across Tennessee consistently tell me how much they value this program because it provides them with options to receive medical care closer to home.”

“This legislation is an important step toward ensuring that the medical needs of our nation’s heroes are prioritized over bureaucratic expedience,” commented Senator John Thune.

Senator Ted Cruz expressed concern over existing barriers: “We must ensure our veterans receive uninterrupted treatment whether inside a VA hospital or within their local communities.”

U.S. Representative Scott Franklin introduced companion legislation in the House. He remarked, “Providing excellent care at VA facilities and providing flexibility are not opposing missions... My bill will ensure continuity of care for veterans currently receiving services outside the VA."