VA earlier this week announced changes that will make it easier for VA-enrolled veterans to access health care from non-VA providers at the Department’s expense. In 2019, the MISSION ACT allowed such an opportunity when veterans met at least one of six conditions—but only when the decision was in the best medical interest of the veteran as determined by a second VA doctor.

Implementation of the recently passed Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Act removes the extra review step. The new, streamlined process for determining best medical interest will be backed by training for Veterans Health Administration employees to ensure compliance with the Elizabeth Dole Act. Find out more about community health care.