Courtney Commends The VA For Streamlining The Process For Scheduling Routine Audiology And Optometry Appointments

WASHINGTON, D.C. —Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-2) announced that the US Department of Veteran’s Affairs (VA) will no longer require veterans to obtain a primary care referral before scheduling appointments at local VA Audiology and Optometry clinics. This change will eliminate multiple steps the veterans formerly had to complete before getting an appointment to treat hearing loss – the most common type of disability claim handled by the VA.

“I applaud this move by the VA, streamlining the process for our veterans in need of care for their hearing and sight,” said Courtney. “These are the kinds of improvements that the VA has needed to implement, and I am glad to see them moving toward giving our veterans what they deserve: the finest care as promptly as possible.”

Hearing loss is the most common disability faced by veterans, and more than 60 percent of returning soldiers from Iraq and Afghanistan suffer from hearing loss or chronic ringing in the ears. Hearing loss among veterans has more than doubled over the past decade. The condition can lead to a notable decrease in quality of life, with the potential for anxiety, depression, and early-onset dementia.

Any constituents with questions regarding the Department of Veteran’s Affairs can contact Congressman Courtney’s Norwich office at: (860)886-0139.

The full text of the VA’s release can be found here.

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