Veterans have earned timely access to quality health care, whether through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or through trusted community providers. Unfortunately, outdated scheduling processes continue to prevent veterans from receiving care when they need it. 

While the MISSION Act expanded veterans’ access to community providers, many veterans continue to experience lengthy waits simply to have appointments scheduled. A 2024 report from the VA Office of Inspector General found significant scheduling delays for veterans referred to community care, with average waits exceeding 45 days and only a fraction of appointments meeting the VA’s own scheduling goals. These delays can have serious consequences for veterans seeking critical medical treatment. 

H.R. 3482, the Veterans Community Care Scheduling Improvement Act, modernizes the community care scheduling process by formalizing the implementation of External Provider Scheduling (EPS), a program that allows VA employees to directly schedule appointments with participating community providers. Early adoption of EPS at participating VA facilities has been overwhelmingly positive. This legislation seeks to expand the adoption of EPS to improve coordination between VA and community partners, reduce administrative burdens, and help veterans access care more quickly. 

Veterans should not be forced to navigate unnecessary delays to receive the care they have earned through their service. The American Legion urges you to contact your Senators today and encourage them to support H.R. 3482, the Veterans Community Care Scheduling Improvement Act.