Letter to Secretary Wilkie - Shutting Down The Amherst Health Center Without A Viable Alternative In Place Is An Affront To Our Veterans

Letter

Dear Secretary Wilkie,

I write today to urge you to reconsider the closing of the outpatient veterans health center in Amherst, New York. Last week, patients at the clinic - mostly veterans of WWII and the Korean War - received a notice that the center would be closing. A number of constituents have reached out to my office to protest this decision.

Since 2011, hundreds of veterans have received top-notch medical treatment, physical therapy, and cognitive care at this facility, with an average of 37 patients coming through the doors on a daily basis, many of whom come to receive adult day health care services multiple days a week. Additionally, those who have been receiving services have formed tight bonds that undoubtedly have aided in their recovery and help provide them the lifestyles they want and deserve. Expecting these veterans, who have honorably and loyally served their country, to now find their own care at private and community-based programs is an affront to our nation's duty to serve and protect our veterans.

I understand the unique challenges the VA faces, and that this particular center has an uncertain future in its current location. However, I also understand the value of these VA-provided medical treatment services, as well as the community the staff and patients in the Northtown Plaza clinic have created. For this reason, I urge you to consider an alternate plan for these veterans, including moving the center to another location in Amherst or one of the surrounding towns.

If you have questions, or if I may be of further assistance, please contact my office.

Source