Contract Program for Veterans With Alcohol and Drug Dependence Disorders

This document amends 38 CFR part 17 by adopting as a final rule the proposal to modify eligibility criteria for veterans participating by contract in the Department of Veterans Affairs' program of alcohol and drug dependence or abuse treatment and rehabilitation in residential and nonresidential facilities. Previous regulations stipulated that, prior to participation in contract care under this program, veterans were to be provided hospital care in facilities over which the Secretary has direct jurisdiction. It was proposed to change the regulations to stipulate that, prior to participation in contract care, veterans must have been or must be receiving care (regardless of whether it was or is hospital care) by professional staff over whom the Secretary has jurisdiction (regardless of whether it is direct jurisdiction). The elimination of the requirement of ``hospital care'' is necessary to address changed clinical practices and continue the intended program. In the past, substance abuse treatment generally was provided in a hospital setting. Now, much substance abuse treatment also is provided in an ambulatory care or residential setting. Further, this document changes ``direct jurisdiction of the Secretary'' to ``jurisdiction of the Secretary'' to allow for continuation of any cases in which VA has had involvement (including, among other things, fee basis care) and thereby help ensure that a complete course of treatment is provided.