Requires VA to Set Appointment Wait Standard
S4229-119 · Introduced Mar 26, 2026
Why it matters
Veterans could get a clear public target for how fast they are scheduled for care, both at VA facilities and in the community. Lawmakers would also see regular reports on whether the VA meets it.
What it does
- Requires the VA to set a standard for how long veterans wait for appointments after a referral
- Requires the VA to publish the standard in the Federal Register and on its public website
- Requires the VA to report at least every three months on referrals that meet the standard
In committee
Next: a committee vote
- Introduceddone
- Committeecurrent step
- Senatenot yet
- Housenot yet
- Presidentnot yet
About this bill
Would require the VA to set and publish a standard for the time between a care referral and an appointment. The VA would also report at least quarterly on how many referrals meet it.
Scheduling for Community Health and Easy Data to Understand for Legislators to Evaluate Services Act of 2026
Perspectives
💬 The case for
Veterans groups would likely say clear scheduling standards hold the VA accountable for delays. Quarterly public reports would make wait times easier to track.
💬 The case against
Some VA officials would likely say a fixed standard could push staff to rush scheduling. Reporting every quarter may also add paperwork for busy clinics.
Sponsored by
Sponsor details for this federal bill are at the source link.
News
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