VALOR
Act Would Allow Veterans Better Access to Health Care
By
Congressman Collin Peterson
Although the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has one of the largest health care systems in our country, many eligible veterans are unable to use VA medical facilities due to driving distance, age or because they have to wait too long for an appointment. While we can’t solve these problems overnight, veterans should have the ability to receive quality health care no matter where they live.
Recently, Congressman Latham of Iowa and I introduced the VALOR Act. This legislation will address the access problem that many rural veterans are experiencing by providing an option to receive medical care in their own communities. While VA health care has made remarkable improvements in delivering quality health care to veterans, the fact remains that veterans have uneven access to these services.
This past summer, the Administration acknowledged funding
problems in VA health care, and Congress quickly acted to restore $1.5 billion
to make up for the egregious shortfall. This was a long delayed victory for
America’s veterans. Congress also made some strides by focusing on ending the
Disabled Veterans’ Tax, but I think we can do better.
Each
November 11th our country comes together to remember our veterans who
have served and sacrificed in the name of freedom and liberty.
Sadly, as we reflect on Veterans Day, we again are engaged in
hostilities, and young men and women will pay the ultimate price while wearing
the uniform of the nation.
More
than 15,000 troops have been wounded in Iraq and many of them are permanently
disabled. These men and women have tremendous needs and we must be there for
them. Let us support and pay tribute
to our troops currently serving in Iraq, Afghanistan, and around the globe.
These troops have served our nation with honor and distinction and will become
the veterans of tomorrow. A grateful nation must always honor that service.
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