Gus Bilirakis: “I rise in support of H.R. 3118, the Veterans' Health Care Eligibility Act. Eligibility reform is an issue that the…”

“I rise in support of H.R. 3118, the Veterans' Health Care Eligibility Act. Eligibility reform is an issue that the Veterans' Affairs Committee, the VA and veterans service organizations have been working on for a long time. I am a cosponsor of the Veterans' Health Care Eligibility Reform Act and am pleased that we are moving this important bill forward through the legislative process. Today's complex and confusing eligibility criteria represent a continuing source of frustration for both veterans and VA personnel. Moreover, it is often an impediment to providing veterans with the kind of health care they really need. As most health care providers move toward a new model of care that emphasizes primary and preventive care in outpatient settings, the VA must also shift its focus from inpatient to outpatient care. Without meaningful eligibility reform, it will be extremely difficult for the VA to remain a viable health care provider. H.R. 3118 is a step in the right direction for the VA and simplifying the VA's eligibility criteria will greatly benefit veterans.”