Noteboom The Law Firm

New Legislation Addresses Urotrauma Treatment for Active Duty Military and Veterans

May 10, 2010 - H.R. 5106, if passed, will mandate the U.S. Secretary of Defense institute a commission on urotrauma. The American Urological Association (AUA) authored the legislation, which addresses a mounting issue for both active duty soldiers as well as veterans.

While not very well known, urotrauma predominantly affects active duty military personnel. One noteworthy cause is damage from improvised explosive devices (IEDs) on a soldier's sexual organs and genitourinary system. Additionally, abdominal muscles can be damaged over time from the weight of armor and gear. The weight may, over time, negatively affect urinary function and could result in pelvic prolapse.

The Interagency commission mandated by H.R. 5106 will be led by the Department of Defense. The commission's focus will be to perform a study, research, and advise on actions as to how urotrauma treatment should be advanced.

Another key provision of the legislation is based on the outcome of the Commission's study. The results of the study should dictate how resources should be used to help treat Urotrauma including:  

• Researching innovative new treatment options;
• Discovering how to avoid or eliminate urotrauma injuries; and
• Improving medical training for those caring for people suffering from urotrauma.

The bill expressly focuses on the medical needs of younger soldiers returning from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Passing the legislation demonstrates the federal government growing concern on helping veterans' facing urologic diseases. Beyond that, it demonstrates the federal government's continued dedication to supplying the best possible health care for military personnel and veterans.