[Federal Register: November 29, 2002 (Volume 67, Number 230)]
[Notices]               
[Page 71231-71232]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr29no02-165]                         


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DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS


Capital Asset Realignment for Enhanced Services (CARES) Commission


 
Notice of Establishment


    As required by section 9(a)(2) of the Federal Advisory Committee 
Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hereby gives notice of the 
establishment of the Capital Asset Realignment for Enhanced Services 
(CARES) Commission. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs has determined 
that establishing the Commission is both necessary and in the public 
interest.
    The Commission will conduct a nationwide review to determine VA's 
capability to support the delivery of veterans health care services 
through the next 20 years and will make specific recommendations to the 
Secretary regarding the realignment and allocation of capital assets 
necessary to provide such services. In making its recommendations, the 
Commission with focus on the accessibility and cost effectiveness of 
care to be provided, while ensuring that the integrity of VA's health 
care and related missions is maintained, and any adverse impact on VA 
staff and affected communities is minimized.
    The Commission will consider recommendations submitted by the VA 
Under Secretary for Health and will also consider other views and 
concerns submitted in writing during a 60-day period following the 
Under Secretary's recommendations. The Commission will also hold public 
hearings to receive and consider the views and recommendations of 
veterans service organizations, Congress, medical school affiliates, VA 
employees, local government entities, affected community groups and 
other interested parties.


[[Page 71232]]


    The Commission shall consist of members appointed by the Secretary. 
Those members shall serve as objective advisors to the Secretary. The 
Commission shall submit its recommendations to the Secretary not later 
than September 30, 2003, unless that date is extended by the Secretary.


    Dated: November 22, 2002.


    By Direction of the Secretary.
Ronald R. Aument,
Deputy Chief of Staff.
[FR Doc. 02-30300 Filed 11-27-02; 8:45 am]

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