U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.) has introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at strengthening care for veterans living with spinal cord injuries and disorders within the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The bill, known as the Veterans STAND Act, seeks to address gaps in preventive care and access to emerging medical technologies for veterans with spinal cord injuries and disorders, commonly referred to as SCI/Ds. Supporters say the measure would ensure more consistent health evaluations and greater awareness of treatment options that could improve mobility, independence and overall quality of life.
The VA currently serves more than 27,000 veterans with SCI/Ds through a national system that includes 25 regional spinal cord injury centers and more than 130 primary care teams and support clinics at VA medical facilities nationwide. However, lawmakers backing the bill say many veterans still face barriers to regular evaluations and to accessing new assistive technologies.
Nearly half of spinal cord injuries occur between the ages of 16 and 30, meaning many veterans manage the condition for decades. Advocates argue that without consistent evaluations and clear standards for incorporating new treatments, veterans may miss opportunities to benefit from advances in medical care.
The legislation would require the VA to offer annual preventive health evaluations for veterans with SCI/Ds, either in person, through referrals or via telehealth. The evaluations would assess health risks, chronic pain, nutrition, prosthetic needs and potential use of advanced assistive technologies.
The bill also calls for veterans to be evaluated for newer treatments, including powered mobility devices, exoskeletons and noninvasive spinal cord neuromodulation therapies. In addition, it directs the VA to consult with spinal cord specialists, clinicians, veterans service organizations and medical device manufacturers to ensure policies reflect current medical advancements.
To increase accountability, the measure would require the VA to report to Congress on the use and outcomes of assistive technologies and incorporate those evaluations into agency performance metrics.
“It is our duty as Americans not only to honor all soldiers, sailors, marines, airmen and guardians, but to do everything we can to fight for them when they return,” Gottheimer said in a statement.
The Veterans STAND Act is co-led by Reps. Jack Bergman (R-Mich.), committee chairman Mike Bost (R-In.) and Rep. Joe Neguse (D-Colo.).
