Veterans Prosthetics Advancement and Reform Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. Moran, Jerry [R-KS]
- Committees
- Veterans' Affairs Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Mar 18, 2026
Bottom line
This bill aims to standardize and improve access to prosthetic and rehabilitative care for veterans by establishing a comprehensive, evidence-based formulary and a clear exception process within the VA.
What it actually does
This bill mandates the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish a comprehensive formulary for prosthetic and rehabilitative items and services, ensuring their availability across all VA facilities. It requires public and veteran input in its development, evidence-based inclusion of items, and sets up an exception process for medically necessary non-formulary items, alongside training for VA staff and ongoing monitoring.
Proponents argue
Supporters would argue that this bill ensures equitable access to essential prosthetic and rehabilitative care for all veterans, regardless of their location, by standardizing the availability of items and services. They would emphasize the importance of an evidence-based formulary, public input, and a robust exception process to meet individual veteran needs, thereby improving health outcomes and reducing disparities.
Opponents contend
Critics might contend that creating a rigid formulary, even with an exception process, could introduce bureaucratic hurdles and delays in providing specialized or rapidly evolving prosthetic technologies to veterans. They might also raise concerns about the administrative burden and potential costs associated with developing, maintaining, and updating such a comprehensive formulary across all VA facilities, potentially diverting resources from direct care.
The bill is concise and clearly written, making it accessible for a quick read and easy comprehension of its core intent.
Section 2(a), new section 1709D(a)
Establishment of VA Prosthetic and Rehabilitative Formulary
This provision directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to create an official list, or 'Formulary,' of prosthetic and rehabilitative items and services. This list will define what medical services the VA will furnish under its existing authority, aiming to standardize and clarify the availability of these crucial items for veterans.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that a standardized formulary will ensure consistency and equity in the provision of prosthetic and rehabilitative care across all VA facilities, preventing a 'postcode lottery' where access depends on location.
Critics contend
Critics might express concern that a formulary, by its nature, could limit flexibility and potentially delay access to cutting-edge or highly specialized items not yet on the list, even with an exception process.
Tradeoffs
Balances the need for standardized, equitable access with the potential for reduced flexibility in individual care decisions or slower adoption of new technologies.
Section 2(a), new section 1709D(b), (c), (d), (e)
Formulary Development, Publication, Contracts, and Training
This section outlines the requirements for developing and implementing the formulary. It mandates soliciting input from veterans and the public, ensuring all formulary items are available at all VA facilities, and basing inclusions on the best available evidence. It also requires the VA to publish and periodically update the formulary online, communicate its contents and appeal processes to veterans, enter necessary contracts, and provide training for VA staff.
Section 2(a), new section 1709D(f)
Non-Formulary Item Exception Process and Monitoring
This provision requires the VA to establish a clear process for clinicians to request, prescribe, and furnish prosthetic and rehabilitative items and services that are not on the formulary when medically necessary. It also mandates monitoring these non-formulary requests to ensure consistent and appropriate prescription across facilities and to identify items that should potentially be added to the formulary.