S. 2737: Veterans National Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act

This bill, known as the Veterans National Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act, aims to create a pilot program within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for veterans suffering from traumatic brain injuries (TBI) or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Here are the key elements of the bill:

Establishment of a Pilot Program

The Secretary of Veterans Affairs is required to establish a pilot program that offers HBOT to eligible veterans diagnosed with TBI or PTSD. This therapy will be provided through community health care providers that meet specific regulations outlined in existing laws.

Operational Locations

The Secretary will select two Veterans Integrated Service Networks (VISNs) where the pilot program will operate. VISNs are regional healthcare systems that serve veterans.

Accreditation Requirements

Any medical facility participating in the program must be accredited by one of the following organizations:

• The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Hospital Organizations
• The Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society
• Another suitable organization with comparable expertise and standards

Funding Structure

A fund named the "VA HBOT Fund" will be created to finance the program exclusively through donations. This fund will support the administration of HBOT without time limitations, meaning it can be used as needed until the pilot program concludes.

Duration of the Program

The pilot program and the associated fund will cease operations three years after the enactment of this legislation.

Definition of HBOT

HBOT is defined as hyperbaric oxygen therapy delivered through a medical device that is either:

• Approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
• Has received an investigational device exemption from the FDA

Reporting Requirements

Within one year of the bill’s enactment, the Comptroller General of the United States must provide an updated report to Congressional committees. This report will build on previous research concerning the effectiveness of HBOT in treating TBI and PTSD. It will assess clinical trials that have occurred since the last report in 2015, focusing on studies conducted by the VA and private entities.

Amendment on Pension Payment Limits

The bill also includes an amendment to extend certain limits on pension payments for veterans from November 30, 2031, to October 30, 2034.

Relevant Companies

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