Multiple Sclerosis Centers of Excellence
Multiple Sclerosis System of Care Directive 1101.06
Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Directive 1101.06 outlines the policies and procedures for health care services provided to Veterans with multiple sclerosis (MS). (MS Directive)
Directive 1101.06 Policy
VHA requires that all enrolled Veterans with MS have access to complete specialty health services. These services are delivered through an MS System of Care. This system includes the MS Centers of Excellence (MSCoE) and at least one MS Regional Specialty Program (MS RSP) in each Veterans Integrated Services Network (VISN). Together, these programs ensure that all VA medical facilities can provide MS specialty care. AUTHORITY: 38 U.S.C. § 7330.
Background
In 2001, Congress asked VHA to establish two MSCoE. These Centers would focus on clinical care, education, and research. Congress provided this direction through three committee reports: the Conference Report (H. Rept. 106-988), the Senate Appropriations Committee Report (S. Rept. 106-410), and the House Appropriations Committee Report (H. Rept. 106-674). These reports accompanied the VA's fiscal year 2001 budget request.
VA responded by creating a committee of MS experts. This committee defined what the two Centers should do and require. The committee also created national standards for MS care. Since only two Centers would receive funding, the committee developed a plan for a network of affiliated MS RSPs. These regional programs would support local VA medical facilities and healthcare providers.
In 2002, two Centers were selected through a competitive process. The first Center (MSCoE-East) serves VISNs 1-11 while the second Center (MSCoE-West) serves VISNs 12-23. Congress made the MSCoE permanent through the "Veterans Benefits, Healthcare and Information Technology Act of 2006."
