The Rural Veterans' Improved Access to Benefits Act of 2026 makes it easier for the Department of Veterans Affairs to hire contract healthcare professionals to conduct medical disability examinations for veterans, particularly in rural areas. The bill loosens temporary licensing requirements so that doctors, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and other qualified healthcare professionals can perform these exams if they hold a current, unrestricted license in any state and are not barred from practice anywhere. The legislation extends the current temporary authority from 2025 through September 30, 2031, giving the program an additional six years to operate. Within 15 months of enactment, the VA Secretary must report to Congress on how many exams were conducted, their cost and timeliness, performance by state and professional type, and any problems that occurred, helping Congress assess whether the program should continue beyond the new sunset date.
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