Rep. Schneider Statement on Interim Report on Phoenix VA

Press Release

U.S. Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10) released the following statement in response to an interim report released today by the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of the Inspector General, detailing improper waiting lists for veterans to see doctors at the Phoenix Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System:

"This preliminary report confirms that egregious violations of VA policy and veterans' trust were committed in the Phoenix VA Health Care System. This is unacceptable and disgraceful. Secretary Shinseki must immediately act to implement the recommended changes throughout the entire VA system and take the appropriate measures to ensure those responsible are held accountable.

"One of the greatest hallmarks of the United States is the willingness of its citizens to take up arms and defend it. We can and need to do better by these military families and veterans to ensure they receive the care and treatment they deserve."

On May 14, Rep. Schneider personally requested that the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center, located in the Tenth Congressional District, carry out its own internal review of its health care practices.

He also sent a letter to Secretary Shinseki asking that the VA's nationwide audit of its medical centers be thorough, effective and comprehensive. Rep. Schneider also voted for a bill to give the VA Secretary even greater flexibility in punishing his senior executives and holding them accountable.

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