On July 9, HR 3016, the VA Provider Equity Act, was introduced in the US House of Representatives. The legislation would recognize podiatrists serving in the Veterans Health Administration under the Physicians and Dentists authority. Rep. Brad Wenstrup, DPM drafted the bill as the culmination of a long-term lobbying effort which was conducted in response to Resolution 17-11, which seeks to resolve long-standing recruitment and retention problems for podiatric physicians at the VA.
Podiatrists are currently recognized under outdated guidelines written in 1976. Podiatric education, training, and experience have changed dramatically since these guidelines were written, and legislation is required to update the guidelines to meet current standards. Recognition under the Physicians and Dentists authority will not only ensure that podiatrists are paid at the physician level within the VA, but that individual facilities will have the tools necessary to effectively and efficiently recruit and retain the most experienced providers. This recognition will also ensure that podiatrists enjoy the same responsibilities and opportunities as their allopathic and osteopathic colleagues within the VA.
Please visit eAdvocacy site today to encourage your legislator to support the VA Provider Equity Act.