CLARIFICATION OF DISTANCE REQUIREMENT FOR EXPANDED AVAILABILITY OF HOSPITAL CARE AND MEDICAL SERVICES FOR VETERANS THROUGH THE USE OF AGREEMENTS WITH NON-DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS ENTITIES.

SEC. 3. CLARIFICATION OF DISTANCE REQUIREMENT FOR EXPANDED AVAILABILITY OF HOSPITAL CARE AND MEDICAL SERVICES FOR VETERANS THROUGH THE USE OF AGREEMENTS WITH NON-DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS ENTITIES. (a) In General.—Section 101(b)(2) of the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014 (Public Law 113-146; 38 U.S.C. 1701 note) is amended— (1) in subparagraph (B), by inserting “(as calculated based on distance traveled)” after “40 miles”; and (2) in subparagraph (D)(ii), by striking subclause (II), and inserting the following new subclause (II): “(II) faces an unusual or excessive burden in traveling to such a medical facility of the Department based on— “(aa) geographical challenges; “(bb) environmental factors, such as roads that are not accessible to the general public, traffic, or hazardous weather; “(cc) a medical condition that impacts the ability to travel; or “(dd) other factors, as determined by the Secretary.” . (b) [38 U.S.C. 1701 note] Effective Date.—The amendments made by subsection (a) shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act and apply with respect to care or services provided on or after such date.