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VA leader calls community care an ‘easy button,’ urges staff not to use it 

Community care is a vital part of the veterans health care system. It mandates an avenue for veterans to get the care in the community they need when they need it, rather than VA-provided care being their only option.   But the VA is concerned with its self-preservation and would prefer community care, which Congress directed… Read more »

By Emilye Bell
Tuesday, January 30th 2024

#VAFail: Significant issues found with suicide crisis line, leading to calls for accountability and reform

For more than 15 years, the federal government’s Veterans Crisis Line has been a resource for former military members who need an immediate connection to specially trained mental health responders. While the resource has helped many veterans, it isn’t perfect. And, like many top-down programs with no competition, it can take months or years to… Read more »

By Emilye Bell
Friday, January 26th 2024

CVA to Congress: Investigate sexual harassment at VA and restore accountability

The Department of Veterans Affairs has a duty and responsibility to provide needed care and benefits to veterans. But misconduct, harassment, and a lack of accountability consistently get in the way of that mission.  The House Veterans Affairs Committee recently voted to subpoena documents regarding sexual harassment in the VA’s Office for Resolution Management, Diversity… Read more »

By Emilye Bell
Tuesday, January 23rd 2024

#VAFail: VA denies Vietnam veteran’s claim he was in combat, despite paperwork and injuries

In a time when the Vietnam War was raging, and many Americans were taking out their anger on the fighters rather than the war, it would have been easy to stay home.  But Frank Lagana was a faithful Marine who didn’t shy away from a fight.  Decades later, when he reached out to the VA… Read more »

By Emilye Bell
Friday, January 19th 2024

Watch: Veteran’s spouses give a glimpse into Montana’s VA challenges

Montana is becoming a prime destination for more and more veterans and their families. But are the state’s Veterans Affairs facilities prepared to help those that call Montana home?  Two veterans’ spouses sat down to share their stories of struggles with the VA.  In TJ’s heartfelt account, he shares his wife’s struggle to secure community… Read more »

By Emilye Bell
Tuesday, January 2nd 2024