Section 1 Short title
This Act may be cited as the “Veterans Mental and Behavioral Health Quality of Care Act”.
Veterans Mental and Behavioral Health Quality of Care Act
A BILL
To require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a study on the quality of care difference between behavioral and mental health care provided by health care providers of the Department of Veterans Affairs compared to non-Department providers.
Sec. 2 Study on quality of care difference between behavioral and mental health care provided by health care providers of Department of Veterans Affairs compared to non-Department providers
In general— The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall conduct a study on the quality of care difference between behavioral and mental health care under the laws administered by the Secretary provided by health care providers of the Department of Veterans Affairs compared to non-Department providers.
Conduct of study— The Secretary shall conduct the study under subsection (a) through the use of an independent and objective organization outside the Department.
Matters To be studied— In conducting the study under subsection (a), the Secretary shall determine—
any differences in health outcomes for veterans between care from providers of the Department and non-Department providers, including symptom scores and suicide risk;
if non-Department providers are using evidence-based practices in the treatment of behavioral and mental health issues; and
potential gaps in coordination between providers of the Department and non-Department providers in responding to individuals seeking behavioral or mental health care.
Report— Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives a report on the study conducted under subsection (a).