Case for Support: Why Congress Should Pass H.R. 1107

1. Enhances Access to Timely Care for Veterans

• Many veterans—especially in rural or underserved areas—face long wait times or logistical challenges accessing in-person care.
• Telemedicine eliminates travel burdens and allows continuity of care, particularly for mental health, pain management, and substance use treatment.

2. Maintains Safe Medical Standards

• Providers must still follow DEA and FDA rules, operate under full licensure, and use professional judgment.
• The bill does not loosen safety protocols—it modernizes delivery.

3. Builds on Successful Pandemic-Era Models

• During COVID-19, temporary waivers proved that tele-prescribing can be both safe and effective.
• This bill codifies proven, veteran-centric practices into law.

4. Reduces Gaps in Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment

• Veterans with PTSD, anxiety, or opioid use disorder often depend on controlled medications.
• Requiring in-person exams for every prescription can delay urgently needed care and discourage treatment adherence.

5. Cost-Efficient and Scalable

• Telehealth reduces infrastructure strain and overhead.
• It supports efficient provider utilization and reduces missed appointments or emergency room dependency.