Whole Health for Veterans Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Deluzio, Christopher R. [D-PA-17]
- Committees
- Veterans' Affairs Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Apr 16, 2026
Bottom line
This bill aims to expand affordable access to holistic health and wellness services for all veterans by capping or eliminating associated copayments.
What it actually does
This bill amends title 38, United States Code, to significantly limit the copayments veterans are required to make for Whole Health well-being services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs. It establishes a maximum monthly copayment of $30 for most veterans and completely exempts veterans in priority groups 1 through 5 from any copayment for these services. The bill also provides a clear definition of what constitutes 'Whole Health well-being services.'
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that the bill will make vital Whole Health services more accessible and affordable for all veterans, particularly those with greater needs, by removing financial barriers. They contend that promoting proactive wellness and holistic care can improve veterans' overall health outcomes and potentially reduce reliance on more intensive medical interventions.
Opponents contend
Critics might express concerns that while the intent to improve veteran access is laudable, capping or eliminating copayments could lead to increased demand for services, potentially straining VA resources and budgets. They may also argue that it could reduce revenue streams for the VA without an explicit mechanism to offset the increased costs, ultimately burdening taxpayers.
The bill is very short and clearly written, making it highly accessible for a quick and thorough evaluation by any interested reader.
Section 2(b), adding new Section 1730D to title 38, United States Code.
Establishes Copayment Limits for Whole Health Well-being Services
This provision amends existing law to prevent the Department of Veterans Affairs from requiring veterans to pay copayments for 'Whole Health well-being services,' with specific exceptions. It allows for a monthly copayment not exceeding $30, but explicitly exempts veterans in VA priority groups 1 through 5 from any copayment requirement for these services. This ensures that a significant portion of the veteran population receives these services free of charge, while others face a capped monthly fee.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this ensures that financial barriers do not prevent veterans, especially those with lower incomes or greater needs, from accessing beneficial holistic health services that promote overall well-being and preventative care. This aligns with the Sense of Congress to provide affordable access to all veterans.
Critics contend
Opponents might contend that eliminating or capping copayments could lead to increased demand for these services, potentially straining VA resources and budgets without a clear mechanism for offsetting the lost revenue or increased operational costs.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the goal of increasing equitable access to beneficial health services for veterans against the potential fiscal impact on the VA and the broader federal budget. It also navigates the equity of access by maintaining full exemptions for the most vulnerable veterans while providing a significant cap for others.
Section 2(b), adding new Section 1730D(c) to title 38, United States Code.
Defines 'Whole Health Well-being Services'
This section provides a clear statutory definition of 'Whole Health well-being services' for the purpose of the copayment limitations. It includes two main categories: educational and skill-building services (such as coaching, partner sessions, and courses) and complementary and integrative health well-being services (such as guided imagery, meditation, Tai Chi/Qigong, and yoga). Crucially, these services are defined as promoting health, well-being, and self-care independent of treating a specific medical condition or diagnosis.