Press Releases

Edwards Statement on House Passage of the Veteran Access to Care Act of 2014

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 10, 2014


Washington, DC – Congresswoman Donna F. Edwards (MD-4) released this statement following House passage of HR 4810, the Veteran Access to Care Act of 2014. The legislation will allow veterans to see private doctors outside the Veterans Affairs (VA) system for a two-year period if they experience long wait times or live more than 40 miles from a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facility.

“The Veteran Access to Care Act is a critical first step towards ensuring that our nation’s veterans receive the timely access to medical care they deserve. It is my hope that the Inspector General’s investigation uncovers the core problems at the VA. But, in the meantime, we must take steps to ensure our veterans get off the wait list and into doctors’ offices to have access to timely, comprehensive health care. This legislation empowers veterans with choice in finding alternative medical care while the unconscionable backlog is reduced. Though we have more to do, I am proud to support this bill, and look forward to continuing to fight for Maryland’s and our nation’s veterans.”

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