Congressional Action Enables VA to Provide Procreative Services
Posted By PVA Admin on February 27, 2017
Federal Registry publishes rule that approves funding through September 30, 2018
WASHINGTON, DC – On January 19, 2017, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) issued an interim final rule amending its regulation regarding fertility counseling and treatment available to qualifying veterans and their spouses. Today, services finally became available to veterans, and Paralyzed Veterans of America (Paralyzed Veterans) National President Al Kovach, Jr. issued the following statement:
‘When a member of the U.S. Armed Services returns home with catastrophic loss or injury, it is incumbent on this country to do everything possible to make him or her whole again, with every opportunity for a fulfilling civilian life. The ability to have a family isn’t and shouldn’t be an exception to that commitment. Paralyzed Veterans celebrates this momentous day, and envisions a future for our veterans that recognizes all sacrifices equally.
We applaud Senator Murray for leading the way on this legislation, and for her steadfast commitment to our nation’s veterans. Paralyzed Veterans will continue to work with our partners to repeal the existing ban on reproductive services, and ensure they are a permanent part of VA medical services.’
VA coverage currently allows for veterans and their spouses with a service-connected reproductive injury to pursue assisted reproductive technologies that include in vitro fertilization (IVF). Mirroring Department of Defense services, VA will fund a maximum of three cycles of IVF. The funding is authorized through September 30, 2018.
