Benton Times

The House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs’ Subcommittee on Health today considered Congressman Steve Womack’s (AR-3) bill, H.R. 9324, the Protecting Veteran Access to Telemedicine Services Act of 2024. During the hearing, Congressman Womack emphasized the importance of the legislation and urged for its swift passage.

“This bill seeks to ensure that our nation's veterans—whether in bustling urban centers or the most remote rural areas—have uninterrupted access to healthcare services by permanently extending care right to their homes,” said Congressman Womack. “I urge my colleagues on this committee to support my bill and act swiftly to pass it. Our veterans have sacrificed so much for our freedom, and it’s our duty to ensure they receive the care they have earned in a manner that meets their needs in today's world.”

Lieutenant General (Ret.) Mark Berry, former Adjutant General of Arkansas, expressed his support for the bill: “Congressman Steve Womack has consistently delivered any time there are issues of concern in our veteran community. His legislation to amend telemedicine policies within the VA is a tremendous necessity for our veterans. I applaud Congressman Womack's dedication to those who have served and sacrificed for this great country.”

The Protecting Veteran Access to Telemedicine Services Act aims to address issues arising from the Ryan Haight Online Pharmacy Consumer Protection Act of 2008, which requires an in-person medical evaluation before prescribing controlled substances. This requirement was temporarily waived during the COVID-19 pandemic but is set to expire at the end of 2024.

According to data from the VA’s Office of Rural Health, over 2.7 million veterans in rural communities rely on VA health care systems but face significant barriers due to geographic constraints. The proposed legislation seeks to mitigate these disparities by allowing VA health care professionals to prescribe controlled substances via telemedicine.

If not extended beyond December 31, 2024, current exemptions will expire, potentially restricting veteran access to necessary medications classified as controlled substances.