H.R. 657 — VA CPE Modernization Act

This section revises VA reimbursement of continuing professional education expenses (38 U.S.C. 7411) by (1) increasing the maximum annual amount to $2,000 (from $1,000) per eligible full-time health care professional; (2) expanding eligibility beyond board-certified physicians and dentists appointed under 38 U.S.C. 7401(1) to also include podiatrists, registered nurses, and physician assistants appointed under that provision, as well as psychologists, licensed practical or vocational nurses, medical technologists, diagnostic radiologic technologists, and social workers appointed under 38 U.S.C. 7401(3); and (3) authorizing the VA Secretary to adjust the specified dollar amounts from time to time, provided no adjustment results in reimbursement below $2,000 per year per individual. (Thus, the changes broaden support for professional development across a wider range of VA clinicians and staff.)