This bill seeks to significantly enhance accountability for both contracted and employed healthcare providers within the Department of Veterans Affairs. It amends title 38, United States Code, to modify how federal tort claims laws apply to non-Department providers and to strengthen disciplinary actions for repeated instances of malpractice or negligence. The legislation aims to ensure greater transparency and protection for veterans receiving care.

One key provision addresses non-Department providers, who are healthcare contractors. It stipulates that civil actions for malpractice or negligence against these contractors may proceed under state law, rather than solely through the Federal Tort Claims Act, if the Secretary provides specific information about the contractor's involvement within 45 days. Furthermore, if a non-Department provider accumulates five or more malpractice judgments or settlements within a five-year period, the Secretary is mandated to revoke their authorization to provide care at VA facilities and prohibit future contracts with them, though an appeal process is established.

The bill also strengthens accountability for Department-employed physicians. The Under Secretary is required to bring professional conduct or competence charges against a VA physician if they are accused of negligence or malpractice in three or more separate civil actions that resulted in a judgment or settlement against the United States within a five-year period.

To promote transparency, the legislation mandates that the Secretary notify relevant state licensing entities and the National Practitioner Data Bank within 30 days of any judgment against the United States involving negligence or malpractice by a non-Department employee. Additionally, the Department of Veterans Affairs must publish clear information on its website explaining veterans' rights regarding federal tort claims, including filing procedures, circumstances for civil actions, and applicable time limits.