Gottheimer introduces bipartisan bill to expand access to advanced care for veterans with spinal cord injuries
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer of New Jersey has introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at improving care and expanding access to advanced medical technologies for veterans living with spinal cord injuries and disorders.
The proposal, known as the Veterans STAND Act, seeks to address ongoing gaps in care within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs by requiring regular health evaluations and ensuring veterans are informed about and considered for emerging treatments that could improve mobility, independence and quality of life.
More than 27,000 veterans nationwide receive care for spinal cord injuries and disorders through the VA’s network of 25 regional specialty centers and more than 130 primary care teams and support clinics. Despite that system, lawmakers say many veterans continue to face barriers to preventive care and limited access to innovative assistive technologies.
Advances such as powered exoskeletons and noninvasive spinal stimulation therapies have shown promise in restoring movement, improving bodily function and reducing secondary health complications. However, without consistent annual evaluations or clear standards for incorporating such tools into VA care, many veterans are not made aware of — or given access to — these options, supporters of the bill said.
“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. This is especially important as veterans face challenges from rising costs, health care struggles, and transitions into civilian life,” Gottheimer said. “Together, with legislation like the bipartisan STAND Act, we reaffirm our enduring promise to fight for our veterans the same way they fought for us.”
The bill would require the VA to offer annual preventive health evaluations for veterans with spinal cord injuries or disorders through in-person visits, referrals or telehealth. Those evaluations would assess health risks, chronic pain, nutrition, prosthetic needs and opportunities to use new assistive technologies.
It would also ensure veterans are evaluated for advanced mobility devices and therapies, including exoskeletons and spinal cord neuromodulation technologies. In addition, the legislation directs the VA to consult with spinal cord specialists, clinicians, veteran service organizations and medical device manufacturers to keep policies aligned with the latest advancements in care.
The measure would further require the VA to report to Congress on the use and outcomes of assistive technologies and to incorporate those evaluations into performance metrics to strengthen oversight and accountability.
Gottheimer, a Democrat who represents New Jersey’s 5th Congressional District, introduced the bill alongside a bipartisan group of lawmakers, including Reps. Jack Bergman of Michigan, Mike Bost of Indiana and Joe Neguse of Colorado.
