Letter to Richard Griffin, Acting Inspector General of the Department of Veterans Affairs - Allegations of Misconduct at Hibbing VA Clinic

Letter

Richard J. Griffin
Department of Veterans Affairs
Office of Inspector General (50)
810 Vermont Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20420

Dear Acting Inspector General Griffin,

We have attached a recent story by the Star Tribune Newspaper in Minneapolis that highlights new, troubling allegations about the VA Health Care System and Sterling Medical, which operates VA outpatient clinics in 21 states, including at least four clinics in Minnesota-Hibbing, Mankato, St. James, and Ely. We are requesting verification that these allegations are being fully investigated by the Inspector General, and that we will be kept apprised of the development of the investigation. As we have made clear in previous communication with VA Leadership and the OIG, in order to fix the VA and restore faith in the healthcare system for our veterans, all allegations of wrongdoing must be investigated and anyone committing wrongdoing must be punished to the full extent of the law.

While the recently passed VA reform law is starting to restore veterans' faith in VA and change the corrupt culture at VA, the law alone is not enough. VA OIG's independent investigation is also critical to this endeavor. We look forward to hearing from you regarding this important matter.