Thompson Supports VA Rule on Telemedicine, Encourages Colleagues to Support VETS Act

Bill would allow health care professionals to care for more veterans

WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Glenn ‘GT' Thompson today commended the Department of Veterans Affairs for proposing a rule that will allow VA-credentialed health care providers to practice telemedicine across state lines.

The rule is similar to a bill Rep. Thompson introduced in April with U.S. Representative Julia Brownley (D-CA).

H.R. 2123, the Veterans E-Health and Telemedicine Support (VETS) Act of 2017 would:

• Create a VA state licensure exemption to allow VA-credentialed health care professionals to work across state borders to perform telemedicine without having to obtain a new license in that state.
• Remove the location requirement to allow for care regardless of where the health care professional or patient is located.

· Require a report to be submitted to Congress on the effectiveness of telehealth programs in the Department of Veterans Affairs.

"Existing licensure requirements for VA service providers are not in line with the technology and care available today. And, our service members deserve the best care possible," Rep. Thompson said. "Outdated regulations prevent individuals who receive care within the VA system from accessing qualified providers that utilize telemedicine, simply because of geography and a state border. I commend the VA for proposing new regulations and look forward to continuing to push for the passage of the VETS Act, which would further this effort by making it law."

A broad-based coalition of two-dozen health organizations support the VETS Act of 2017.