May 12, 2011
Miller: “Any Loss of Life Because of Delays in Treatment is a Tragedy”
For more information, contact: Amy K. Mitchell, (202) 225-3527
WASHINGTON, DC—The House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs will hold a hearing on mental health programs available through the VA on June 14, 2011. Tuesday’s ruling by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals that cites “unchecked incompetence” by the VA in handling post-traumatic stress cases will also be addressed at the hearing.
“The invisible wounds of war are unrelenting. They bear on the soul, occupy the mind, rarely granting the sufferer reprieve. This week, the 9th Circuit brought to the nation’s attention whether efforts by the VA to treat mental health illnesses have been effective and timely for veterans. While we question the Court’s legal basis for the ruling, any loss of life because of delays in treatment is a tragedy and must be investigated,” stated Rep. Jeff Miller (FL-01), Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.
“We must ensure treatment is focused on healing these veterans and puts them on the path to recovery. Therefore, the full Committee will hold a hearing on June 14, 2011, to examine the services available to veterans suffering from mental trauma, explore integrative therapies, and question whether VA is employing a holistic approach across its services to deliver therapeutic benefits to veterans suffering from mental illness.”