Ernst, Thompson team up on legislation to expand VA use of telemedicine

U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) and U.S. Rep. Glenn Thompson (R-PA) introduced bicameral and bipartisan legislation to authorize qualified Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health professionals to practice telemedicine across state lines, improving access to health care in rural areas.

The Veterans E-Health and Telemedicine Support (VETS) Act aims to improve access to health care for veterans, including those struggling from mental health issues.

“Iowa is home to more than 200,000 veterans, many of whom reside in more rural areas, distant from Iowa’s VA facilities,” Ernst said. “Telehealth offers another way in which we can provide veterans the care they need, including critical and potentially lifesaving mental health care. The VETS Act will ensure that veterans can receive the timely and quality care they deserve from the comfort of their own homes.”

Under current regulations, the VA is only authorized to perform telehealth services when both the provider and the patient are located within the same state. The VETS Act would enable qualified health professionals to practice telehealth across state lines, and it would ensure congressional oversight of the VA’s telehealth program through required program effectiveness measurements.

“When our service men and women are called to duty, they do so selflessly with only the country in mind,” Thompson said. “When they return home, it is our shared responsibility to be there for these heroes, by making lifesaving resources readily accessible. The VETS Act will eliminate multiple layers of bureaucracy, allowing our veterans to have greater access to mental and behavioral health services, especially in rural areas.”

In 2015, the VA conducted 2.14 million telehealth visits, reaching more than 677,000 veterans. From 2002 to mid-2016, the VA provided more than 2 million tele-mental health visits to over 389,400 veterans.

The legislation garnered bipartisan support, with Ernst being joined by Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-HI) in introducing the bill in the Senate and Rep. Julia Brownley (D-CA) joining Thompson in sponsoring the House version.