This resolution recognizes community care as an essential tool for ensuring U.S. veterans receive timely, high-quality healthcare through the VA system and community providers.
Marsha Blackburn
Senator
TN
This resolution formally recognizes community care as an essential component of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health system. It affirms that community care complements the VA's mission by expanding access to timely, high-quality services for veterans. The resolution urges the VA to fully implement the existing VA MISSION Act of 2018 to ensure veterans have necessary care options. Ultimately, it reaffirms the Senate's commitment to veteran-centered care, regardless of where it is delivered.
Senate Resolution Affirms VA Community Care as 'Essential Tool' for Veterans' Healthcare Access
This Senate Resolution is a formal statement that recognizes and affirms the importance of the VA’s existing Community Care program, established under the 2018 VA MISSION Act. Essentially, it declares that allowing veterans to access health care outside of VA facilities—when the VA can’t meet their needs—is an essential, permanent part of the system. The resolution specifically notes that this community option is vital for veterans in rural areas, those with mobility issues, and anyone needing specialized treatment like oncology or mental health services.
The VA Mission and the Reality of Access
For anyone who has ever tried to book a specialist appointment or drive an hour for medical care, this resolution speaks to a real-world problem. It starts by acknowledging the "nationwide crisis" in VA access a decade ago, which led to the creation of the Community Care program. The resolution affirms that this program complements the VA’s mission, rather than undermining it. Think of it this way: if your local VA clinic has a six-month wait for physical therapy, the Community Care program allows you to see a private provider down the street much sooner. The resolution explicitly states that resource constraints should never be used to limit a veteran’s access to necessary treatment, reinforcing that timely care is the priority.
What This Means for Veterans on the Ground
Since this is a resolution, it doesn't create new laws or funding, but it sends a powerful message to the Department of Veterans Affairs. It formally urges the VA to implement the VA MISSION Act of 2018 in both its "letter and spirit." This is a push to ensure that veterans actually get the access they were promised. For a veteran living far from a major VA medical center, or one who needs immediate, high-quality specialized care, this resolution solidifies their right to use community providers. By affirming community care is "cost-effective" and strengthens veteran trust, the Senate is making a clear commitment to maintaining this vital access point, ensuring every veteran has timely, affordable, and high-quality care, whether inside a VA facility or out in their local community.