Veterans Health Care Freedom Act

This bill would test a simpler, “you choose your doctor” model for VA health care. It sets up a three-year pilot program that lets eligible veterans pick their providers across VA hospitals and certain community clinics and hospitals that work with the VA. Veterans in the pilot pick a primary care doctor to coordinate their care and can choose specialists as needed; mental health providers can also be chosen directly within the covered network . The VA must give clear information on eligibility, costs, treatments, and provider options to help veterans make informed choices.

The program will run in at least four VA regions, covering both rural and urban areas, and it removes some rules that can limit access based on where a veteran lives or other requirements when using VA or community care . It starts one year after the bill becomes law and runs for three years; after four years total, these easier access and choice rules become permanent, and veterans may use any VA facility regardless of regional boundaries . The VA must report on how the pilot is set up and how it’s working, and it will use existing funds—no new money is authorized.

Key points

• Who is affected: Veterans enrolled in VA health care.
• What changes: More choice of VA and community providers; primary care-led coordination; easier access rules; clear information on options and costs .
• Where: At least four VA regions, covering rural and urban areas.
• When: Starts one year after enactment; runs three years; after four years, the choice rules become permanent and apply nationwide within the VA system .