VA Waives Medical Copays for Native American Veterans
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On Monday, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) stated that medical copays for Native American veterans would be waived. Veterans of Native American descent will be eligible for free healthcare through the VA healthcare system under the new policy, which will go into force in 2023.
The Native American Veteran's Access to Care Act was passed and enacted into law in December 2020, and the VA's ruling came after that. The VA was required by law to treat Native Veterans for free. Copays will not be required for general and specialized treatment, prescription medications, mental health services, or any other VA-offered medical services.
"Alaska Native American Veteran's service and sacrifices will be honored by the VA," according to VA Secretary Denis McDonough, who called this a crucial move. "This policy will ensure that our Native Veterans receive the best care and support possible."
Native American Veterans to Receive Free Care
Native American Veterans will not be required to pay out-of-pocket expenses for medical treatments under the new policy. The VA will handle all expenses related to the treatment, including copays and deductibles.
All Native American Veterans, regardless of their economic level, will be covered by the program. The strategy is expected to help more than 98,000 Native Veterans.
Additionally, the VA will offer more tools to support Native American Veteran's access to healthcare. The organization will broaden its outreach initiatives to educate Native veterans about the new policy and assist them in locating the treatment they require. It will also collaborate with tribe chiefs to guarantee that they have access to the medical treatment they need.
Congress Passes Law to Help Native American Veterans
Rep. Deb Haaland (D-NM) proposed the Native American Veteran's Access to Care Act, which was approved by Congress in December 2020. The VA must increase its marketing efforts to notify them of the new policy and provide free medical treatment to them as required by the law.
Rep. Haaland stated, "Native American Veterans have long been denied access to the care they deserve." "With the passage of this law, Native American Veterans will finally receive the treatment they deserve. I applaud Congress for taking action to give them the treatment they deserve and need.
An alliance of Native American and Veteran groups, including the National Congress of American Indians, the National Native American Veterans Association, the American Legion, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, backed the measure.
VA Committed to Supporting Native American Veterans
Native American Veteran's devotion and efforts will be respected by the VA. For Native American Veterans to receive the treatment they require, the office will keep collaborating with Native American communities and organizations.
According to McDonough, "We are committed to making sure Native American Veterans receive the care they deserve." "This policy is a crucial step in that direction, and we'll keep pushing to make sure Native American Veterans are supported and honored," the statement reads.
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