WASHINGTON (May 30, 2007) – Congressman Chandler announced today that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) plans to open a new community-based clinic in Berea, Kentucky, which will enhance access to VA health care for veterans of Kentucky.  The clinic was among 38 approved in 22 states by VA Secretary James Nicholson.

Implementation of the new Berea facility, called a community-based outpatient clinic (CBOC), will begin immediately.  Completion is expected in 2008.  Local VA officials will keep the surrounding communities and their veterans informed of milestones in the completion of the new clinic.  

“Our veterans have served us with honor and we must ensure that they are taken care of after their service has ended,” said Congressman Chandler.  “This new clinic will provide critical services for veterans of Central Kentucky who have sacrificed so much for our country.”

Established to improve veterans’ access to quality health care in rural areas of Kentucky, the CBOC in Berea will provide essential services to veterans, including comprehensive primary care, routine and urgent care procedures, health promotion and education, and mental health services.  Specialty care and complex diagnostic procedures will normally be referred to the Lexington Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC).

The Lexington VAMC serves an estimated 92,000 veterans in Lexington and the surrounding communities.  It is anticipated that 1,738 existing patients and 462 new patients will be treated at the Berea facility.

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