; and (2) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph: (B) For purposes of subparagraph (A), the requirement to enter into consolidated, competitively bid contracts shall not restrict the authority of the Secretary under other provisions of law when modifying such a contract after entering into the contract. . (b) Effective date The amendments made by subsection (a) shall take effect on the effective date specified in section 101(b) of the John S. McCain III, Daniel K. Akaka, and Samuel R. Johnson VA Maintaining Internal Systems and Strengthening Integrated Outside Networks Act of 2018 ( Public Law 115–182 ). 202. Modification of provision requiring recognition and acceptance, on an interim basis, of credentials and qualifications of health care providers under community care program Section 1703(h)(5)(A) is amended by striking the date of the enactment and inserting the effective date specified in section 101(b) . 203. Expansion of coverage of Veterans Care Agreements (a) In general Section 1703A is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection: (l) Covered individual defined In this section, the term covered individual means any individual eligible for hospital care, medical services, or extended care services under this title or any other law administered by the Secretary. . (b) Conforming amendments Section 1703A is amended— (1) in subsection (a)(1)— (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking veteran each place it appears and inserting covered individual ; and (B) in subparagraph (C)— (i) by striking veteran and inserting covered individual ; and (ii) by striking veteran’s and inserting covered individual’s ; (2) in subsection (e)(2)(B), by striking veteran each place it appears and inserting covered individual ; (3) in subsection (f)(2)— (A) in subparagraph (C), by striking veterans and inserting covered individuals ; and (B) in subparagraph (D), by striking veteran and inserting covered individual ; (4) in subsection (g), by striking to veterans and inserting to covered individuals