VA bill would list community providers trained in veteran suicide prevention

What does this do?

HR 8793 directs the Department of Veterans Affairs to create a publicly available list of community-based health care providers who have completed annual training on veteran suicide prevention. The VA would have 180 days after enactment to begin offering that training and to build the list. Providers who completed equivalent training elsewhere may also be included if it meets VA standards, and any listed provider may request removal.

Who does it affect?

Veterans who use the VA's Community Care Program — which allows eligible veterans to see providers outside the VA system — would be able to use the list to identify trained providers. Community care network providers are also affected, as completing the training determines whether they appear on the list.

Why does it matter?

The VA must submit a report to Congress within 180 days of enactment, and annually after that, tracking how many providers are listed, how veterans are using the list, and whether it is improving access to care. Those reports are intended to help Congress assess whether the program is working and determine if changes are needed.

Where does it stand?