Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Calls for Systemic Reform at the VA

Press Release

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today released the following statement on the allegations of misconduct within the Veterans Affairs (VA) health system, and the systemic problems at the VA that prevent timely delivery of quality care and earned benefits to our nation's veterans.

"The bottom line is our veterans are not getting the service they deserve, whether it be inordinate wait-times for doctor's appointments, issues with medical records, or long delays in claims being resolved, change is long overdue," said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard. "This is an urgent issue that began long before allegations of serious misconduct surfaced in Phoenix. The VA has failed to proactively address the systemic problems our veterans face when they try to access basic care. We have a responsibility to take meaningful action that will bring about the change our veterans deserve.

"We need to do two things sequentially in order to get to the root of the problem: (1) conduct a full investigation and get to the bottom of the allegations in Phoenix so we can understand the scope of the problem there, and across the VA system, and hold people accountable; (2) with the facts, determine who is the best person to lead this charge. It is a tough task that will require a dynamic, courageous leader who is focused on creating a modern VA, centered around providing the best possible service to our veterans.

"It's critical now that we focus on meaningful change, and not take action just for show. I am not interested in making symbolic gestures that may serve to calm criticism, but which do not actually help veterans who are suffering and dying on our watch."

The congresswoman's Hawai"i office offers a range of services for constituents, including help with federal agencies like the Department of Veterans Affairs.

"No veteran should have to struggle through bureaucracy and red tape just to access the benefits they earned in service to our nation. My team has the resources and contacts to help Hawai"i veterans, and I encourage those who are facing obstacles to reach out to my Hawai"i team, which I'm proud to say includes veterans from all four main branches of the military," Congresswoman Gabbard added.

Source