This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs to employ at least one sexual assault nurse examiner at every VA hospital and urgent care facility, or alternatively, a qualified health care provider trained to conduct sexual assault forensic examinations. After examining a veteran for sexual assault, VA providers must verbally refer the patient to mental health services provided by the VA, or to outside care through a Veterans Care Agreement if the wait time for VA mental health services exceeds 30 days. The legislation ensures these new requirements do not reduce other patient care services at VA facilities. The bill applies to all VA hospitals and urgent care centers across the country and affects both veterans seeking care and VA staff responsible for sexual assault examinations and mental health referrals, though it does not specify funding amounts or implementation timelines.
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