Congressman Rick W. Allen and Congresswoman Lucy McBath have introduced the Health Care for Energy Workers Act to improve access to medical care for energy workers. The legislation aims to amend the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act (EEOICPA) by allowing nurse practitioners and physician assistants to order care for Department of Energy workers under the Department of Labor program.
The EEOICPA provides compensation and medical benefits to those who have worked in the nuclear weapons industry. Current regulations prevent nurse practitioners and physician assistants from ordering home health care services, which poses challenges, particularly for patients in rural areas.
Congressman Allen stated, “Georgia’s 12th District is home to thousands of energy workers employed at Plant Vogtle and the Savannah River Site, many of whom qualify under the EEOICPA for their health care needs. However, those who live in rural areas are often hours away from the nearest physician, highlighting the need for greater flexibility to ensure these beneficiaries receive the care they deserve. I am proud to lead this bill with Congresswoman McBath to cut unnecessary red tape and improve access to care for energy workers in Georgia and nationwide.”
Rep. McBath added, “America’s workers deserve access to the health care that will help them lead full lives. Too often, necessary treatments might not be available in rural communities. This bill represents an important next step in ensuring more frontline workers have access to quality and efficient care as they serve our communities.”
The proposed act would benefit over 7,000 energy workers in Georgia, including many at Plant Vogtle and the Savannah River Site. A similar bill has been introduced in the Senate by Senators Marsha Blackburn, John Hickenlooper, and Patty Murray.
