NEW HAVEN, CT—Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-3) today applauded the West Haven Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center, where she received an update from Director of the VA CT Healthcare System, Gerald F. Culliton on how they are meeting recommendations issued by the VA’s Inspector General (IG) in February. DeLauro and Culliton discussed the report and its recommendations shortly after it was issued.  

“Many thanks go out to Director Culliton and all the employees and patients who took time to share their perspective. We had a very good meeting and I applaud them for their efforts to ensure our veterans have the best care possible. The brave men and women who served our country so ably deserve the absolute best treatment. It is critical that they get it from the doctors and nurses who treat them at the West Haven VA Medical Center.

“I was pleased to hear from Director Culliton that the IG has accepted the VA’s action plan. They have gone above and beyond the IG’s recommendations, particularly in the areas of environmental management services and ventilation. They are making constant improvements and I will continue to work with Director Culliton to ensure the best possible care for Connecticut’s veterans.

DeLauro and Culliton also discussed the national VA patient scheduling controversy. The West Haven Center has had both an IG evaluation and an internal VA audit, neither of which showed significant scheduling issues. The internal audit applauded the West Haven VA Center for carrying out recommended best practices.

“The VA scheduling controversy that has impacted medical centers nationally is deplorable, and must be addressed swiftly and effectively. Fortunately, it has not been an issue in West Haven. I give Director Culliton and his staff credit for their focus on patient care, just as it should be.”