Caption: U.S. Sen. Tom Carper, joined by U.S. Sen. Chris Coons (left) and U.S. Rep. John Carney (right) speaks with Wilmington VAMC Director Robin Aube-Warren on Monday in Wilmington.

 

WILMINGTON, Del. – Today, U.S. Senator Tom Carper (D-Del.), a 23-year veteran of the Navy, met with Dr. David Shulkin, the Under Secretary of Health for the VA, along with U.S. Rep. John Carney and U.S. Sen. Chris Coons (both D-Del.) to discuss access to health care within the VA health care system.

 

Following the meeting, leaders from the Wilmington VAMC signed a declaration that outlined the VA’s principals for improving access to health care. The framework included providing timely or same-day services in primary care and mental health, offering extended clinic hours and virtual care options, responding to clinical inquiries within 2 days, providing necessary care from another VA Medical Center if the veteran is away from their primary facility, integrating community partners as appropriate to enhance access, and following up with veterans.

 

“Our nation’s veterans made sacrifices to protect and defend our country, and it’s up to us to make sure they’re getting the benefits they deserve,” said U.S. Sen. Tom Carper. “My motto is, ‘everything I do, I know I can do better,’ and it’s no different when it comes to addressing the needs of the men and women who have served our country in the military. Today’s meeting highlighted progress that’s already underway in places like Sussex County, and it provided some important insight on how we can continue to improve health care and other benefits to veterans throughout the First State.”

 

“Today's meeting was an opportunity to remain engaged on the challenges facing the VA locally as well as nationally,” said Sen. Coons. “I want to thank Sen. Carper for convening this important discussion as well as thank Dr. Shulkin, and Director Aube-Warren for their candid insight and perspective.”

 

“One of my top priorities in Congress has been ensuring that our veterans receive the care that they deserve,” said Congressman Carney. “Today’s meeting was a great opportunity for stakeholders to come together and discuss the critical issues facing Delaware’s veterans. From mental health care, to improving access to the VA, there’s always more we can do. I look forward to continuing our joint efforts to better serve these men and women.”

 

 

###