IAVA Statement Before The SVAC On Pending Legislation » Iraq And Afghanistan Veterans Of America...

CDR Tom Porter - Thank you for the post. I have a question about improving the VA system. Has anyone looked at moving VA doctors, nurses, and staff out of VA hospitals and instead putting detachments of VA doctors, nurses, and staff in as many public hospitals as possible. I think by doing this there would be many benefits for both the VA and veterans.
1. This would allow veterans to be seen at almost any hospital which would decrease the driving and wait time for many veterans.
2. This would increase the staff levels at most hospitals.
3. VA staff and regular staff could compliment each other by allowing both staffs to help veterans when a large influx of veterans occurs and help civilians when a large influx of civilians occurs.
4. The VA could or rent their hospitals reducing overall VA costs allowing the VA to hire more staff to put out in dets.
5. The VA staffs and resources would be funded by the VA and would be an additional benefit to public hospitals by adding staff and resources at no cost to the hospitals. A cost sharing program.

Long term maybe the VA could look to fund nursing and medical school applicants in exchange for working for so many years in the VA system. Maybe even start a VA medical and nursing school or set of schools.

Just some thoughts on the subject. Thanks for your time.
CDR Steve Yargosz