H.R. 1860: Women Veterans Cancer Care Coordination Act

This bill, known as the Women Veterans Cancer Care Coordination Act, aims to enhance cancer care for female veterans, specifically those diagnosed with breast and gynecologic cancers. Here’s a breakdown of its key provisions:

Establishment of Coordinators

The bill mandates the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to hire or designate a Regional Breast Cancer and Gynecologic Cancer Care Coordinator at each Veteran Integrated Services Network (VISN) within one year of its enactment. These coordinators will report to the Director of the Breast and Gynecologic Oncology System of Excellence.

Eligibility for Care Coordination

Veterans can receive care coordination if they:

• Are diagnosed with breast or gynecologic cancer, or have a precancerous condition.
• Are eligible for health care through the Veterans Community Care Program at a facility outside the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Geographical Regions

The Secretary will establish regions for care coordination, considering:

• The needs of veterans, particularly those in rural areas.
• Existing VISNs and VA facility locations.

Responsibilities of Care Coordinators

The designated coordinators will handle various responsibilities, including:

• Ensuring effective communication and coordination between VA clinicians and community care providers.
• Maintaining regular contact with veterans to address their specific healthcare needs.
• Monitoring the quality of care provided to veterans and tracking health outcomes related to their cancer diagnosis, including demographics and treatment data.
• Providing vital information to veterans regarding emergency care and mental health resources.
• Documenting all relevant information in electronic health records.
• Executing any additional responsibilities assigned by the Secretary.

Reporting Requirements

Within three years of the bill's enactment, the Secretary must submit a report evaluating:

• The health outcomes of veterans receiving cancer care at VA facilities compared to non-VA providers.
• Timeliness and patient safety in the delivery of cancer care.
• Needed changes or resources to improve cancer care and coordination.

Definitions

The bill provides definitions for various terms related to community care providers and the types of cancers addressed, ensuring clarity and specificity in its implementation.

Relevant Companies

• None found