FR 2021-01822

The recent notice from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), as published in the Federal Register, seeks nominations for new members to join the Veterans' Rural Health Advisory Committee (VRHAC). This committee plays a crucial role in advising on how to improve the delivery of healthcare services to veterans residing in rural areas. The VA's call for nominations aims to reflect diverse professional and personal qualifications among committee members to ensure a well-rounded representation of perspectives.

Summary

The VA wants to fill positions on the VRHAC, a committee that consists of 12 members appointed by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs from a pool of public candidates. Members will provide vital recommendations to enhance healthcare access for rural veterans. The membership is open to individuals from varied backgrounds, including veterans organizations, academia, healthcare, and the private sector. Accepted nominees will serve a three-year term, with the possibility of reappointment, and they may receive travel allowances for duties related to committee work. Eligibility requires that nominees are U.S. citizens and not federally-registered lobbyists. Nominations should include a letter, contact details, a resume, recommendation letters, and a confirmation of no conflicts of interest.

Significant Issues and Concerns

The document highlights some challenges and areas for improvement concerning the nomination process and committee operation:

1. Implementation and Measurement of Committee Recommendations:

2. The notice does not specify how the VRHAC’s recommendations will be implemented or assessed effectively. This omission might lead to questions about the committee’s influence and the tangible outcomes of its advice.

3. Geographical Diversity:

4. While the intention is to have a diverse committee, the notice lacks clarity on ensuring members come from various regions to authentically represent the interests of all rural areas. Geographic diversity is crucial to addressing the unique challenges faced by rural veterans across different parts of the country.

5. Self-nominations and Vetting:

6. By accepting self-nominations, the process is more inclusive; however, it raises concerns about whether individuals have the appropriate qualifications. The notice does not elaborate on a stringent vetting process to assure the quality and suitability of nominees.

7. Complex Language:

8. The notice uses certain bureaucratic terms, such as "ex-officio members" and "ethics review," which might be confusing for the general public. Simplifying this language could enhance understanding and accessibility.

Public Impact

The call for nominations aims to improve healthcare access and services for rural veterans, a group that often struggles with limited resources and geographical barriers. Effective operation of the VRHAC can directly benefit veterans by ensuring more equitable healthcare services. The committee’s work could lead to policy changes or new programs tailored to the needs of rural populations.

However, the effectiveness of the committee relies heavily on both the nominated individuals and the processes in place to implement and measure their advice. The lack of detailed implementation strategies might hinder the committee’s ability to effect real change.

Stakeholder Impact

For veterans in rural areas, the VRHAC’s recommendations could lead to significant improvements in healthcare delivery, potentially resulting in better health outcomes and satisfaction. For organizations and individuals participating on the committee, joining presents an opportunity to influence veteran healthcare policy at a federal level.

Nevertheless, if the nomination process does not rigorously vet candidates or if the diversity of rural perspectives is not adequately represented, certain regions or groups may remain underserved. Ensuring an effective and diverse committee is essential to overcoming these challenges and maximizing the beneficial impact of the VRHAC's efforts.