Pulaski Times

U.S. Senator John Boozman, alongside Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Jerry Moran and Senators Deb Fischer and Tedd Budd, has introduced a bill aimed at improving veterans' access to healthcare. The proposed legislation seeks to permanently authorize and expand the External Provider Scheduling (EPS) program at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This initiative is designed to streamline the process of scheduling healthcare appointments for veterans within their communities.

The EPS program enables the VA to access community care providers' schedules, thereby reducing the time required to arrange appointments for veterans in need. During its initial rollout phases, this system reportedly improved community care scheduling timeliness by 65 percent and increased daily appointment scheduling from seven to over twenty.

Senator Boozman emphasized the importance of timely medical care for veterans, particularly in rural areas where community care is crucial. "Veterans deserve timely and quality access to medical care," he stated. He expressed satisfaction in supporting efforts that ensure veterans' appointments are not delayed or denied.

Senator Moran highlighted the significance of simplifying the appointment scheduling process, which has led to faster healthcare access for veterans. "Veterans should not have to wait weeks or months to obtain the care and services they have earned," he said. The continuation of the EPS program is expected to enhance nationwide access to care.

Senator Fischer noted that making the EPS program permanent would prioritize veterans' needs by improving coordination between VA and community providers, especially in rural regions. "Our veterans shouldn’t have to wait long periods to receive the medical care and services they need," she remarked.

Senator Budd underscored his support for Senator Moran's legislation, which facilitates real-time appointment scheduling with community healthcare providers. "No veteran should be forced to wait for the care they need and deserve," he asserted.

For more details on the legislation, readers can click here for full text.