You cannot watch or read the news these days without hearing of a high-ranking federal scandal. Within a few months of each other, explosive headlines blew the lid off massive corruption taking place on the federal government's watch. From the breach in national security at our U.S. Embassy in Benghazi to the IRS' intentional targeting of conservative groups, the federal government continues to amass more power with little to no accountability.
These scandals have only further erupted as recent reports have surfaced about the lack of accessibility and medical care for our nation's veterans. The Inspector General of the Veterans Health Administration launched an independent investigation into the matter, releasing an independent review of patient wait times, scheduling practices and patient deaths.
The Inspector General's report found that waiting time for a primary care appointment was approximately 115 days. To put that in perspective, veterans would have to wait almost four months — or one-third of the year — just to see a doctor.
Our veterans should not survive long tours serving overseas only to come home and lose their lives waiting to see a doctor. These courageous men and women have already risked their lives on the front lines of battle and should be given top priority to receive quality, affordable health care. Why is it that our nation will gladly dole out millions on entitlement programs, yet neglect to protect the very people who defend this freedom?
American veterans often have unique health care needs that solicit specialized support. Many come back from active duty with life-altering injuries or require treatment for a variety of post-traumatic stress disorders. It is unacceptable for these men and women to have their names forgotten while the private sector could offer veterans shorter wait times and improved care. If services cannot be rendered immediately at the VA, a private care provider could be enlisted to deliver medical services and be reimbursed at a later date. This could significantly reduce wait times and decrease the likelihood that veterans would lose their lives waiting for treatment.
We must analyze other solutions if the VA is unable to get the job done. In the military, soldiers can be court marshaled for avoiding the duties they promised to fulfill. Why should the VA be any different? If individuals are not performing satisfactory or are committing criminal actions, they should be held accountable. Another option is allowing private care when VA access is not meeting minimum service levels.
On the battlefield, medical and emergency personnel stand willing and ready for service. At home, health care is much more of a distant memory of battlefields past, where health care was readily accessible at the nearest medical tent. It is time the VA removes the barricades it has erected and works to build a bridge to a stronger future for our veterans. Nothing is more tragic than a soldier who valiantly served his country giving up his or her life while waiting for medical care. There are no excuses — the time to act is now!
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