Latta bill to aid veterans with cancer care

Submitted information

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green) has authored legislation to improve access to treatment for veterans diagnosed with cancer.

The bill, the Veterans Cancer Treatment Flexibility Act, would make veterans eligible for the VA Choice program if they have been diagnosed with cancer and live more than 40 miles from the nearest VA facility that offers cancer treatment. VA Choice is an existing program that allows veterans to use a civilian facility and have their care reimbursed through the VA.

“Cancer is a debilitating disease that often requires intense treatment that takes a toll on a patient,” said Latta. “Having to regularly endure long days of travel to VA facilities to receive chemotherapy or other cancer treatment places an even greater burden on our veterans.

“These men and women have sacrificed a great deal for our country, and we should honor their service by allowing them to use facilities closer to their home,” Latta added. “Reducing travel for veterans battling cancer would greatly contribute to their well-being and quality of life.”

Latta said he became aware of this issue after hearing from constituents in his district who must first travel to the VA clinic in Toledo and are then bused up to the Ann Arbor, Michigan, VA facility for cancer treatment. Including travel to and from the facility, it’s not unusual for cancer treatment for these veterans to consume an entire day.