New Leadership and Focus on Community Care
Senator Jerry Moran of Kansas has stepped into the role of chair for the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, focusing on expanding care options for veterans.
His mission centers on community care, a topic that has often divided lawmakers in the past.
Moran is determined to foster a bipartisan conversation, emphasizing that improving veterans’ access to healthcare enhances the existing VA system rather than threatening it.
Previously, Moran chaired the veterans policy panel for two years, and he now assumes leadership of the committee after the Republican Party regained a Senate majority.
His main goal is to enhance access to VA community care programs, which allow veterans to seek private healthcare at the government’s expense, especially in situations involving lengthy wait times or significant challenges when accessing care through the VA.
Challenges and Concerns Surrounding Community Care
The issue of community care is expected to take center stage this coming year.
House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Mike Bost has already begun efforts to improve and expand the community care program, but this may spark conflict.
Some Democrats have raised concerns that GOP leaders might undermine the VA healthcare system itself.
Currently, external providers manage about 40% of VA medical appointments, which comes with a hefty cost exceeding $24 billion.
As the new head of the committee, Moran is committed to maintaining VA funding while enhancing access to various care options for veterans, especially in rural areas.
He acknowledges that while the VA’s direct care services are crucial, there are instances when external care can better serve veterans’ needs.
Emphasis on Mental Health Services and Upcoming Initiatives
Moreover, Moran plans to boost awareness about healthcare options for veterans, highlighting a gap in communication he believes the VA has struggled with in recent years.
Although he intends to organize hearings and draft legislation regarding community care, these initiatives might initially be sidelined by urgent discussions about the VA’s budget.
Adding to the complexity, VA officials have identified a need for an additional $6.6 billion to meet the fiscal requirements for 2025, largely due to staffing and equipment shortages.
Some Republicans, including Moran, have voiced skepticism about the VA’s budgeting forecasts, particularly in light of past inaccuracies in projections.
Beyond community care, Moran is also focused on enhancing mental health services for veterans.
He emphasizes the importance of careful oversight of benefits distribution, especially given the significant expansions resulting from the 2022 PACT Act.
The committee’s first meeting under Moran’s leadership is set for Tuesday.
During this session, members will evaluate the nomination of former Republican Congressman Doug Collins for the position of VA Secretary, a decision awaited keenly by the committee.
Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut will serve as the ranking member, with five new members joining: Republicans Jim Banks of Indiana and Tim Sheehy of Montana, along with Democrats Tammy Duckworth of Illinois, Ruben Gallego of Arizona, and Elissa Slotkin of Michigan.
Source: Militarytimes