At a Senate hearing, Sen. Tommy Tuberville questioned whether the VBA needs subject matter experts to examine claims processes and recommend improvements.
The new rates reflect a 12% to 15.8% rise over current copays for medications purchased at retail pharmacies and through the Tricare mail-order pharmacy.
Secretary Collins asked the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims to stop its work during the government shutdown. Judges called the request "extreme."
“Tricare may not be able to process or pay medical claims for services received on or after October 1, 2025, until funding is restored," its website says.