Hall, Texas Members Call for Investigation into VA Waitlisting

Floor Speech

A Veterans Affairs employee who recently worked at the clinics in San Antonio, Austin, and Waco came forward with claims that staffers at all three clinics -- under supervisors' instructions -- falsely logged patients' requested appointment dates to correspond with appointment openings. In reality, veterans were waitlisted for months.

These new allegations come in the wake of reports that at least 40 veterans in Phoenix, Arizona died while being waitlisted to receive care.

While investigations at the San Antonio clinic are ongoing, the letter calls for necessary investigations to include "the potential misconduct that may have affected veterans seeking care in Waco and Austin. Any individuals found to have engaged in misconduct or mismanagement must face serious consequences." The letter then urges Inspector General Griffin to "expeditiously and thoroughly investigate the claims regarding misconduct" and report back to Congress.

The fact that our nation's heroes are being waitlisted to receive adequate health benefits is unacceptable, said Hall. Many of these men and women's health issues stem from their active duty service. Our country owes them and their families timely, quality health care in response to their sacrifices. I will continue my efforts to ensure our Nation's veterans -- particularly the 60,000 veterans I represent in the 4th District -- receive the care they have earned. It is a simple way we can show our gratitude

Source