allow veterans to use local medical facilities when there is only a VA clinic available & bill it like medicare does.

In Fort Smith, AR, the VA clinic can only process lab work and prescribe medicine. Any need for real medical services forces a veteran to drive 75 miles to Fayetteville, AR. I propose medical services for veterans in this type of situation be processed similar to medicare. Allow them to go to local medical facilities, and have the facilities bill the VA in Washington for reimbursement. Not all veterans are retired, and can't just take off from their job to drive 1&1/2 hours to a VA hospital.