§1074j Sub-acute care program

Summary

The Secretary of Defense must set up one efficient sub-acute care benefits program for eligible people. The types of health care it covers are the same as those in section 1079 unless the law says otherwise. The Secretary must make rules to run the program after talking with the other department heads who help administer care. The program must include a uniform skilled nursing facility benefit provided like sections 1861(h) and (i) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395x(h) and (i)), but the day limits in sections 1812(a) and (b) do not apply. Skilled nursing care continues for each spell of illness as long as it is medically needed. The program must also include part‑time or intermittent home health care like section 1861(m) of the Social Security Act. The Secretary may extend or continue home health benefits for people who already had them to ensure a smooth transition. Definitions: “skilled nursing facility” and “spell of illness” are as defined in the Social Security Act.