Kiggans co-sponsors Protecting Veteran Access to Telemedicine Services Act

Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02) has announced her cosponsorship of H.R. 9324, the Protecting Veteran Access to Telemedicine Services Act of 2024. The bipartisan legislation, introduced by Congressman Steve Womack (AR-03), seeks to permanently extend a pandemic-related exemption that allows Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare providers to prescribe certain medications via telemedicine.

Under current law, veterans seeking care through the VA must typically have an in-person examination before receiving prescriptions for certain medications. This requirement was temporarily waived during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing veterans to receive prescriptions through telehealth appointments. The Protecting Veteran Access to Telemedicine Services Act would make this waiver permanent, ensuring that veterans can continue to access the healthcare they need remotely, regardless of their location.

“Those who defend our country in uniform deserve the best possible care once they return home from service,” said Congresswoman Kiggans. “For many veterans across Hampton Roads, that means using telehealth services to see a provider from the comfort of their own home. As the only geriatric nurse practitioner in Congress, I have seen firsthand how telehealth has improved access to care, especially for older adults and veterans in rural areas. I’m proud to cosponsor this bill, which will ensure veterans have continued access to the care they’ve earned, no matter where they live.”

Telemedicine has become an essential tool for veterans, especially those living in rural areas. According to the VA’s Office of Rural Health, over 2.7 million veterans reside in rural communities, where access to VA healthcare facilities can be limited. By removing the requirement for an in-person examination, the proposed legislation would help bridge this gap and make it easier for rural veterans to receive timely and effective care.

Congresswoman Kiggans emphasized the importance of telehealth in improving healthcare access for veterans. “Telehealth services have been a game-changer for many, particularly for those who might otherwise struggle to travel to a VA clinic. With this legislation, we’re taking an important step toward reducing disparities in healthcare access for our veterans.”

The Protecting Veteran Access to Telemedicine Services Act of 2024 has garnered broad bipartisan support, reflecting the growing recognition of telehealth’s role in modernizing and expanding healthcare for veterans.

To learn more about the bill or read the full text of the legislation, visit here.