U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS) on Jan. 15 offered legislation to permanently authorize the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to better address the needs of disabled veterans with spinal cord injuries and disorders (SCI-D) and their caregivers.
Specifically, the Disabled Veterans Dignity Act, H.R. 3647, would enact the VA’s Bowel and Bladder program into law to reimburse caregivers, family members, or agencies for performing necessary care, including a bowel program, ostomy or colostomy care, and urinary catheterization to veterans who are unable to manage these functions independently.
“Care in this area is often associated with significant challenges for disabled veterans and their caregivers,” said Sen. Moran, chairman of the U.S. Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee. “This specific care is critical to preventing severe medical complications, minimizing hospitalizations, and maintaining the independence and quality of life for veterans with SCI-D.
“This legislation would help make certain caregivers, family members, and agencies that provide services to veterans for bowel and bladder care receive timely reimbursement and quality training to adequately provide these services to veterans, and I look forward to its passage,” he said.
The Paralyzed Veterans of America, the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, and Disabled American Veterans support the legislation.