Letter to Eric Shinseki, Secretary of Veterans Affairs - Regarding Arkansas VA Medical Centers

Letter

According to widespread media accounts and recent reports, there are indications that dangerously long wait times and the existence of a "secret" electronic wait list at the Phoenix VA Medical Center (VAMC), has resulted in numerous preventable veteran deaths. I am disheartened by these allegations and am committed to ensuring that we conduct appropriate oversight of VA and are accountable to our veterans and their needs through providing the best, timely health care services possible.

In response to these allegations at the Phoenix VAMC, I understand that the VA Office of Inspector General (VA OIG) is conducting an investigation. Veterans in Arkansas receive care at VAMCs in Little Rock, North Little Rock and Fayetteville, as well as Memphis, TN, Shreveport, LA and Poplar Bluff, MO. I seek your explicit assurance that no such "double list" exists at any of these VAMCs, or any other delivery point of health care to Arkansas's veterans, that would in effect hide detrimentally long wait times or otherwise manipulate data. I would also like to know the current wait times for all of the aforementioned VAMCs, as well as whether or not each of these locations use electronic waiting lists.

I look forward to prompt and complete response to my questions and request for assurance. Thank you for your continued work in service to our nation's veterans.

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