Making Advances in Mammography and Medical Options for Veterans Act
Jun 7, 2022
Statute: 136 Stat. 1244
Became law: Jun 7, 2022
Jun 7, 2022
Statute: 136 Stat. 1244
Became law: Jun 7, 2022
Summary
Improves breast cancer screening and care for veterans by upgrading technology, creating new programs, and expanding access to treatment and research.
What problem does this solve?
Veterans, especially those in rural areas or with disabilities, often face difficulties accessing modern breast cancer screening and care through the VA. This law requires the VA to upgrade its technology, start new programs for remote access, and form partnerships to ensure all veterans receive high-quality care.
What does this law do?
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Upgrade of breast imaging at facilities of Department of Veterans Affairs to three-dimensional digital mammography
Upgrades all VA facilities to 3D mammography
Requires all mammography services at VA facilities to be upgraded to use three-dimensional (3D) digital breast imaging technology within two years.
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Telescreening mammography pilot program of Department of Veterans Affairs
Creates a telehealth mammography pilot program
Starts a three-year pilot program to provide remote mammography screening services for veterans in states without VA breast imaging facilities or in other hard-to-reach locations.
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Partnerships with National Cancer Institute to expand access of veterans to cancer care
Partners with the National Cancer Institute
Directs the VA to partner with National Cancer Institute centers in every region to expand veterans' access to high-quality cancer care, including through telehealth for those in rural areas.
Improves access for disabled veterans
Requires a study on making breast imaging services more accessible for veterans with paralysis, spinal cord injuries, or other disabilities. It also updates policies to ensure non-VA providers are accessible.
Expands access to genetic testing
Requires the VA to study and increase the availability of genetic testing and counseling for veterans diagnosed with breast cancer, helping to provide more personalized care.
Develops a strategic plan for breast imaging
Requires the VA to create a strategic plan to improve breast imaging services, focusing on the needs of women and male veterans, geographic differences in care, and new technology.
Who does this affect?
- Veterans
- Women veterans
- Disabled and rural veterans
What is the real world impact?
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Modernizes veteran healthcare
Ensures the Department of Veterans Affairs provides up-to-date, high-quality breast cancer screening and treatment, matching the standards available in the private sector. This helps improve health outcomes for both female and male veterans.
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Increases access for underserved veterans
Focuses on closing gaps in care for veterans who are disabled, live in rural areas, or are otherwise unable to easily access VA facilities. The law pushes for telehealth and mobile solutions to bring care closer to home.
When does this start?
This law sets several deadlines for studies, reports, and program implementations over the next few years.
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Strategic plan for breast imaging services for veterans
Strategic plan submission
Within one year of the law's passage, the VA must submit a strategic plan for improving breast imaging services for veterans.
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Telescreening mammography pilot program of Department of Veterans Affairs
Telescreening pilot program launch
No later than 18 months after the law's passage, the VA must begin a three-year pilot program for telescreening mammography.
3D mammography upgrade completion
Within two years of the law's passage, the VA must upgrade all of its mammography equipment to 3D digital technology.
Report on disabled veteran accessibility
Within two years of the law's passage, the VA must report on the accessibility of breast imaging services for veterans with disabilities.