Veteran Bill of Rights

Injured and Amputee Bill of Rights bill # HR 5428 was referred to the Committee on Veterans Affairs May 27, 2010.

The bill states, at minimum injured and amputee veterans have

1. The right to access the highest quality prosthetic and orthotic care, including the most appropriate technology and best-qualified practitioners.
2. The right to continuity of care in the transitions from Department of Defense health program to the Department of Veterans Affairs health care system, including comparable benefits relating to prosthetic and orthotic services.
3. The right to select the practitioner that best meets their orthotic and prosthetic needs, whether or not that practitioner is an employee of the Department of Veterans Affairs, a private practitioner who has entered into a contract with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide prosthetic and orthotic services, or a private practitioner with specialized expertise.
4. The right to consistent and portable health care, including the right to obtain comparable services and technology at any medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs across the country.
5. The right to timely and efficient prosthetic and orthotic care, including a speedy authorization process with expedited authorization available for veterans visiting from another area of the country.
6. The right to play a meaningful role in rehabilitation decisions, including the right to receive a second opinion regarding prosthetic and orthotic treatment options.
7. The right to receive appropriate treatment, including the right to receive both a primary prosthesis or orthoses and a functional spare.
8. The right to be treated with respect and dignity and have an optimal quality of life both during and after rehabilitation.
9. The right to transition and readjust to civilian life in an honorable manner, including by having ample access to vocational rehabilitation, employment programs, and housing assistance.

To summarize, the veteran has the right to choose his/her practitioner. Palmetto O&P recommends that individuals discuss their situation with prospective practitioners. Communicate your level of injury and your goals and objectives for recovery. Through this conversation identify the practitioner that you feel can best help you meet those objectives. Palmetto is “tour ready”, stop by at any time to speak with a practitioner and receive a tour of the facility. Palmetto is PROUD to be veteran owned!