Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., is cosponsoring legislation that will help veterans who seek health care outside of the Veterans Administration.

The Veterans Choice Improvement Act will make needed changes and reforms to address delays and veterans' confusion when they attempt to get health care, according to a media release from the senator's office.

Capito said she had heard from many West Virginia veterans about problems with the Veterans Choice Program. 

"We owe it to our veterans to make sure they receive access to the quality health care they have earned," Capito said in the release. "The VA's implementation of a Community Call Center is a good step."

The act will address three key problems discovered since Veterans Choice was created two years ago: 

  • Systemic confusion with accessing health care outside the VA by consolidating all non-VA care programs into one funding source.
  • Creating a modern, secure and efficient claims submission process with strict timelines for reimbursement so medical providers no longer fear working with the VA.
  • Allowing local providers to enter into agreements with the VA so that veterans do not have to drive for hours to receive care. 

Veterans who are experiencing payment issues associated with the Choice Program can call 1-877-881-7618 to contact the Community Care Call Center.