# Summary
The Complete the Mission Act of 2024 reforms the Veterans Community Care Program, which allows the VA to send veterans to private providers when VA services are unavailable or too far away. The bill establishes specific eligibility standards requiring the VA to offer community care if it cannot schedule veterans for primary care within 20 days and 30 minutes' drive time, or specialty care within 28 days and 60 minutes' drive time. Veterans must receive written notification of their eligibility for community care within two business days of requesting services, and written notification of any denials within two business days along with appeal instructions. The legislation requires the VA to publicize average wait times at its medical centers, establish an online system for veterans to request appointments and track referrals, and discuss telehealth options with veterans when appropriate. Additionally, the bill creates a three-year pilot program in at least five locations allowing veterans direct access to mental health and substance abuse services without referrals, with priority given to areas with high suicide and overdose rates or long wait times. The VA must also establish a standardized mental health screening process ensuring eligible veterans are evaluated within 48 hours and admitted within 48 hours for priority cases. Various reporting requirements to Congress track program performance and outcomes over multiple years.
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