Establishes Regional Breast and Gynecologic Cancer Care Coordinators within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to hire or designate a Care Coordinator for each Veteran Integrated Services Network (VISN) within one year of enactment.
Care Coordinators will report to the Director of the Breast and Gynecologic Oncology System of Excellence (BGOSoE).
Eligible veterans include those diagnosed with breast or gynecologic cancer or identified with precancerous conditions, and who qualify for care through the Veterans Community Care Program.
The Secretary will establish regions for care coordination, considering existing VISNs and the needs of veterans, especially in rural areas.
Care Coordinators are responsible for:
Coordinating care between VA clinicians and community care providers.
Collaborating with the Office of Community Care regarding care provided.
Maintaining regular contact with veterans based on their medical needs.
Monitoring services and health outcomes related to cancer diagnoses.
Providing veterans with information on emergency care and mental health resources.
Documenting relevant information in veterans’ electronic health records.
Performing additional duties as determined by the Secretary.
A report is required within three years, comparing health outcomes of veterans receiving care at VA facilities versus community providers, evaluating care timeliness, patient safety, and identifying needed improvements.
Defines key terms related to community care providers and types of cancer addressed in the legislation.
