WASHINGTON, D.C. – April 9, 2015 – (RealEstateRama) — One year ago today, we learned veterans at the Phoenix VA were kept on secret waiting lists, waiting months before seeing a doctor, and not getting the care they needed. These revelations were shocking and sickening. Some veterans died while waiting for care. That’s absolutely unacceptable, and frankly it’s un-American.
We took immediate action when we learned from brave whistleblowers about this tragedy. Not waiting for the Phoenix VA to fix their problems, we came together as a community to make sure Arizona veterans get the care they need. Since last summer, we’ve held three veterans clinics helping over 750 veterans and military family members access the benefits they earned, and we’re helping with everything from housing to job placement.
Our office created and published this Veteran’s Resource Guide, a comprehensive directory of resources available to veterans and military families. The guide is available in several locations across the Valley, including our District Office. And you can download the entire document on our website at www.sinema.house.gov.
We also called on the President and the VA to change leadership at the national and local levels and passed a law to increase accountability and improve the quality and accessibility of VA healthcare. We have a lot of work to do to change the culture and improve the services provided by the VA, but some dedicated and caring people are making a difference every day and we’ve seen modest progress since last year.
Just last week we were successful in making the VA expand the eligibility requirements of new Choice program so that more veterans can get the care they need. The bottom line is this: when a veteran needs medical or mental health care, he or she should get it from a professional provider as soon as possible. I don’t care whether that is through the VA or not. I only care that our veterans are getting the care they have earned and deserve. Period.
We have a lot of work left to do. I will not rest until every veteran in Arizona can get the care he or she needs. If you or someone you know is a veteran in need please call our office at 602-956-2285 or visit our website at www.sinema.house.gov. Thank you.
