VA reform?
In March of 2024, the Veteran Affaires had a back log of Approximately 307,030 claims. Minnesota has approximately 11,294 pending claims and 3,442 backlog, as of March 2024. This lands Minnesota the 21st spot for least backlog claims on the list of states with backlogs. the top three states with Backlogs are Texas, Florida, California. In April, the VA secretary said it was making quick and significant processing new claims made by Veterans Exposed to Toxic Substances during their Military Deployment. But warns that the Claims have not even hit their peak and may be on the Low side. The trend for claims is heading in the right direction, due mostly to proper funding levels and increased higher staffing levels.
While this is a wonderful trend the Staffing levels inside VA facilities are still low. Doctors in VA facilities simply put in time for their residency then leave because of poor pay and working conditions. My wife Ellie can Attest to this as she worked in a VA retirement home in Chippewa falls, WI as a CNA.
“I was told when I was hired that if someone was able to do something on their own like put on socks or shoes to let them keep that independence. In reality I would get yelled at because I was spending too much time in each room with the veterans. They were able to get themselves ready, but it took them more time and needed someone there to make sure they did not get hurt. I would be in their room for 10-20 minutes and would be told that I work too slowly and should only be with one person for 5 minutes max. We were running around like chickens with our heads cut off because there were 2 CNAs for eighteen people. Everyone needed help getting ready in the morning and we had an hour to get everyone ready before breakfast. We were not paid very well considering we were always running around to help get the veterans to the bathroom, showered, and dressed and most of the time they had to sit and wait to use the bathroom because we were with someone else who required both of the CNAs to help. – Ellie Godown”
It begs the question, what do we prioritize Care or Administrative Tasks?
As much as it pains me to say I believe the VA should focus more on Administration, opposed to Care. Simply put, if the VA should act more as an HMO such as Medicare. The VA facilities should be moved to private ownership and become regular hospitals, clinics, and retirement homes. allowing public access and increasing medical care options in our communities. It would allow us to take the funding we use to run the VA facilities and transfer it to expand coverage options, allow the VA the power to negotiate care, medication, and medical equipment. Getting Veterans the Best care possible, as they deserve as much.
