Mackenzie, Pappas Introduce Legislation to Improve Veteran Access to Care

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Ryan Mackenzie (PA-07), representing the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos, introduced the Improving Veteran Access to Care Act today alongside Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-1). This bipartisan legislation will improve the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) appointment scheduling process to ensure veterans can more easily schedule and manage their medical care, including primary care, mental health services, and specialty appointments.

Currently, veterans often have to coordinate appointments across multiple VA clinics and services, which can require several phone calls and separate scheduling steps. The Improving Veterans Access to Care Actdirects the VA to create a plan to streamline scheduling systems, improve online self-service platforms, and ensure veterans can schedule appointments through a phone call if they choose. The bill also requires VA to report progress and implement system improvements on a clear timeline.

Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02) is an original co-sponsor of this legislation. This bill is the House companion to the bipartisan Senate billintroduced by Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and John Boozman (R-AR).

"Veterans deserve a clear, straightforward pathway for receiving the care they need," said Congressman Mackenzie. "As we honor Veterans Day this week, we can ensure that every veteran has access to the care they've earned without delay, confusion, or frustration. This bipartisan bill will make it easier for veterans to schedule appointments by streamlining systems and providing clearer, more user-friendly options. Our veterans served our country, now it's our responsibility to ensure their care is delivered efficiently and effectively."

"For veterans trying to make health care appointments at VA, and especially for those in rural areas who have to travel long distances, the current scheduling system is too burdensome and uncoordinated. Creating a one-stop scheduling platform at VA will help veterans make appointments that work for them, saving their time and money and improving access to care," said Congressman Pappas."This commonsense, bipartisan legislation will help deliver veterans the quality care that they have earned and deserve."

Rep. Kiggans said, "When it comes to delivering quality care to our veterans-accessibility and consistency is crucial. The men and women who served our country shouldn't be burdened by outdated systems in order to receive vital care from a medical specialist. I'm proud to join Rep. Mackenzie (PA-07) on this landmark legislation to streamline the scheduling apparatus at the VA and deliver a more user-friendly and effective process for our veterans."

Veterans service organizations strongly support this bill:

"Veterans seeking care at Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities deserve to have the most efficient, streamlined scheduling process available. By requiring a plan to make scheduling appointments easier, the Improving Veteran Access to Care Actaims to do just that. DAV applauds Rep. Mackenzie for introducing this critical legislation that focuses on timely delivery of care, enhanced access, improved customer experience and greater efficiency, as it will help ensure our veterans receive the high-quality, accessible care they have earned and urgently need." - Joy Ilem, National Legislative Director, Disabled American Veterans (DAV)

"Creating a single, transparent scheduling system across VA facilities is long overdue. The Improving Veteran Access to Care Act reflects a pragmatic, bipartisan solution to a long-standing access challenge. Veterans should not have to navigate multiple systems just to see a doctor - and this bipartisan bill moves us closer to a modern VA that meets the needs of those it serves." - Maj. Gen. April Vogel, USAF (Ret), Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) Vice President of Government Relations

The legislation is also supported by:

• The American Legion
• Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA)
• Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)

What the Bill Does:

• Requires VA to create a unified scheduling improvement plan and timeline.
• Improves both online and phone-based systems for appointment scheduling.
• Ensures veterans can schedule, cancel, or reschedule appointments more easily.
• Requires regular reporting to Congress to ensure accountability and progress.
• Ensures improvements are compatible with ongoing Electronic Health Record modernization efforts.

Issues with VA service scheduling were brought to Congressman Mackenzie's attention recently during an event with local veterans. Since then, he has worked with the VA and colleagues on the committee to find a commonsense solution.

Bill text is available HERE.