Search Results for keywords:"Veterans Affairs"

The Department of Veterans Affairs is proposing changes to its Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) as part of the VA MISSION Act of 2018. These changes aim to expand eligibility to veterans from all service eras, redefine terms affecting program eligibility and benefits, and introduce new benefits like financial planning and legal services. The updates also include changes to stipend calculations for caregivers and procedures for reassessing eligibility and managing overpayments. The VA is seeking public comments on this information collection over a 30-day period.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking nominations for members to join the Advisory Committee on Disability Compensation for the 2025-2026 cycle. The committee evaluates the effectiveness of the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities and advises on disability compensation issues. Candidates can be from the general public, including those with experience in disability compensation or medical and scientific experts. Nominations must be submitted by February 3, 2025, and include a cover letter and resume detailing the nominee's qualifications and interest in serving.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is making corrections to a final rule regarding the Schedule for Rating Disabilities, specifically focusing on the musculoskeletal system. Previously, the diagnostic code 5285 was used for plantar fasciitis, but this conflicted with its historical use for spinal fractures. To resolve this, VA is assigning a new diagnostic code 5269 for plantar fasciitis, ensuring clarity in the rating schedule. These amendments were needed to prevent issues related to veterans' compensation and to maintain consistency within the schedule.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced the monetary allowance for outer burial receptacles (OBR) for interments in VA national or grant-funded veterans cemeteries during 2025. The allowance is based on the average cost of government-furnished graveliners in 2024, minus administrative expenses, resulting in a payment of $430 for 2025. This is to assist with burial costs when a non-government OBR is chosen. The details were authorized by VA Secretary Denis McDonough and are now officially published.

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking public comments on an information collection activity related to student enrollment ratios in educational institutions. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act, they want to ensure that no more than 85% of students in approved programs are receiving financial support from the institution or the VA. This compliance, known as the 85/15 Rule, helps prevent overpayment of VA educational assistance. Comments are open until January 2, 2025, and institutions must periodically submit data to confirm compliance.

The final rule from the Department of Justice and the Department of Health and Human Services allows Veterans Affairs (VA) practitioners to prescribe controlled substances to VA patients via telemedicine without needing an in-person medical evaluation by the prescribing practitioner. This is permissible if another VA practitioner has conducted an in-person evaluation. This change provides greater access to care for veterans, especially those in rural or underserved areas, while still implementing safeguards against the misuse of controlled substances. The rule includes requirements for reviewing the patient's electronic health record and state prescription drug monitoring program data before prescribing.

The Department of Veterans Affairs announced an intention to submit a form for review under the Paperwork Reduction Act. This form, VA Form 29-0975, allows a third party to assist veterans or beneficiaries with insurance matters. The aim is to aid those who are elderly or have disabilities. The public is invited to comment on this proposal within 30 days.

The Board of Veterans' Appeals in the Department of Veterans Affairs has announced a proposed information collection under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. The notice is about the collection entitled "Decision Review Request: Board Appeal (Notice of Disagreement)" and involves the use of two VA forms: VA Form 10182 for modernized appeals and VA Form 9 for legacy appeals. The purpose is to revise the current data collection due to changes in the estimated number of respondents and burden hours. This submission is being reviewed for public comments and must display a valid OMB control number to proceed.

The Department of Veterans Affairs is looking for qualified individuals to join their Advisory Committee on Former Prisoners of War. The committee advises the VA on how to help former prisoners of war better, suggesting improvements in services and benefits. They want a diverse group of up to 12 members, including experts in relevant medical fields and veterans themselves. Nominations are due by February 28, 2025, and should include a nominee's qualifications, willingness to serve, and personal contact information.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced its plan to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for a project involving a massive new replacement facility for the Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital in San Antonio, Texas. The proposed relocation aims to meet the growing healthcare needs of an increasing Veteran population in South Texas, addressing the existing hospital's outdated infrastructure and space constraints. Two preliminary options are being considered: relocating to a new site within the San Antonio medical district or redeveloping the current site. The community and stakeholders are invited to provide comments and participate in public meetings, as the VA evaluates the environmental and social impacts of these options.