By Trish Svoboda

U.S. Senators Jerry Moran of Kansas and Jon Tester of Montana who serve as the ranking member and chairman of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee have proposed a bill. This legislation requires the VA to provide yearly preventative health check-ups for veterans suffering from spinal cord injuries and disorders. In addition, it calls for an enhancement in assistive technologies to optimally serve veterans.

The Veterans Spinal Trauma Access to New Devices (STAND) Act is set to establish a preventative health initiative. This program would enable veterans, who have been referred to or treated by the VA for spinal cord injuries, to undergo evaluations for potential treatments. These treatments could address chronic pain, dietary management, risk of associated conditions, and assistance via prosthetic devices. Additionally, the legislation mandates the VA to annually report to Congress the count of veterans benefiting from assistive technologies. This is to ascertain the number of veterans assessed for spinal cord injuries each year.

“Spinal cord injuries can be devastating, but by providing veterans with the right tools and treatments, we can help them regain mobility and hope through treatment and innovative technology,” said Sen. Moran. “This legislation makes certain veterans, who have suffered a spinal cord injury or disorder, will be able to receive the care they deserve while maximizing their independence and mobility.”