VA Hospital Inventory Management System Authorization Act

This bill lets the Department of Veterans Affairs build or buy a new online system to track medical supplies and equipment at VA hospitals and clinics. The VA must test it at one facility first, then roll it out across the system, finishing no later than three years after it becomes law. Before moving forward, the VA has to send Congress a plan with goals, costs and schedule, staffing needs, and an independent review of past problems with its supply program. The bill also extends an existing limit on certain VA pension payments through December 31, 2032.

Key points

• Who is affected: Veterans who get care at VA facilities, and VA staff who order and manage medical supplies.
• What changes: A modern, cloud-based inventory system to keep needed supplies in stock; a pilot test before nationwide use; required planning and staffing checks to avoid past mistakes.
• When: Pilot first; full rollout within three years after the bill becomes law; pension payment limit extended through 12/31/2032.