Press Releases
Kuster Statement on VA New Hampshire Vision 2025 Task Force Recommendations
Washington, DC,
June 14, 2018
Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02), the Ranking Member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, today released the following statement on the VA New Hampshire Vision 2025 Task Force report: “The Task Force’s report today represents yet another step towards adopting many of the recommendations made by the veterans who use the Manchester VAMC and the medical professionals who serve them. In listening to some of those same veterans and doctors, earlier this year I pushed for the VA to prioritize the construction of an ambulatory surgical center as well as a new women’s clinic. I’ve also advocated for the VA to expand its partnerships with academic institutions, create a center of excellence for prosthetics, expand mental health and addiction treatment services and deliver telehealth services capable of caring for veterans in their homes. “Although I’m disappointed that the report doesn’t recommend building a full-service hospital, I believe the recommendations put the Manchester VAMC on course to become a model for the nation. The proposed investment in facilities allows more veterans to receive treatment for mental health conditions and opioid addiction. The VA will also expand services at community based outpatient clinics, bringing rehabilitation therapy, specialty care, imagining and lab work closer to home for many veterans. As the implementation of these plans moves forward, I will be closely monitoring their progress and continue working with New Hampshire veterans to ensure they are receiving the care they deserve.” Kuster has focused on working across the aisle to improve access to care for veterans in New Hampshire and across the country. She was one of just two Democrats to co-sponsor the VA MISSION Act, which passed the House with overwhelming bipartisan support. This legislation reauthorizes and improves the VA Choice Program and enhances community care programs within the VA. The VA MISSION Act expands access to community care for veterans in New Hampshire through a provision advocated for by Kuster. ### |