House Passes Veterans Healthcare Bill, Omits Key EHR Modernization Provisions

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act, focusing on improving services for veterans with bipartisan support. Key provisions include expanding job opportunities, enhancing the Veterans Affairs community care program, and streamlining the disability benefits process. However, significant elements related to the VA’s electronic health record modernization, outlined in the EHR Program RESET Act, were excluded from the final legislation, prompting concerns among lawmakers about data protection and EHR performance oversight. House VA Committee Chairman Rep. Mike Bost has expressed the need for a reassessment of the VA's modernization efforts due to adverse effects on employees and veterans stemming from the current EHR system.

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