This bill strengthens the Veterans Affairs Department's patient advocacy system, particularly for veterans in rural and remote areas. It requires each VA medical center to designate at least one patient advocate specifically to coordinate care for rural veterans who receive treatment at community clinics and other non-hospital locations outside the main medical center. The bill also ensures patient advocates report to their local medical center directors, improving oversight and accountability, and directs the VA Secretary to submit annual reports to Congress detailing patient advocacy data, including common complaints, resolution times, and satisfaction feedback. No specific funding amounts or implementation deadlines are specified in the legislation; it simply amends existing VA law to enhance advocacy services for rural veterans who often face greater barriers to accessing care.
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