Ellsworth Responds to Investigations of Problems at Marion VA Medical Center

Press Release

Yesterday the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) released the results of two investigations involving patient care at the Marion VA Medical Center in Marion, Ill. The VA Inspector General conducted the investigation of surgical services provided after the VA's National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) found a higher death rate than expected at the facility. Rep. Brad Ellsworth today made the following statement on the Inspector General's findings:
"The Inspector General's findings are troubling. There was a clear breakdown in the standard of care at Marion that has violated the veterans' and public's trust. That trust must be restored, and it begins with the VA acting quickly to address the problems outlined in this report. We can't let these kinds of incidents happen again; our veterans deserve much better," said Ellsworth. "In addition, the victims of substandard care at Marion should be compensated appropriately. My office stands ready to assist local veterans and their families in this or any other process including the VA."

The VA will be assisting patients and families who believe they have been harmed by care provided through Marion VA Medical Center in their efforts to receive compensation. Patients and their families who are concerned about the care they received at the facility should call (800) 983-0932 for more information.

In addition, Rep. Ellsworth's office can provide local veterans with assistance in resolving issues with the VA and other federal agencies. Local veterans or their families can call the Congressman's District offices in Evansville (812) 465-6484 or Terre Haute (812) 232-0523.

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