Iraq War Vet Urges Congress to Allow Those Who Served to Seek Care at Non-VA Facilities
Assemblyman Sgt. Bob Andrzejczak, an Iraq War veteran and Veterans Affairs hospital patient, on Thursday called for Congress to pass legislation allowing veterans to receive hospital care and medical treatment at non-VA facilities.
Wait times for appointments at the VA clinic in Vineland are double the national average, according to a recent analysis of VA appointment data . Andrzejczak, a recipient of the Purple Heart and Bronze Star, is a sponsor of legislation (ACR-164) urging Congress to take action. The resolution gained unanimous approval in the Assembly.
“The distinguished men and women I served with in the military deserve better than waiting a month to see a doctor,” said Andrzejczak (D-Cape May/Atlantic/Cumberland).
“I have to pass about a dozen other hospitals to get to my VA hospital, and I can’t get care at any of them. Unfortunately, mine is not an isolated case.
“Allowing those who have served to see local medical professionals will help alleviate the pressure on VA facilities and decrease wait times for patients. No one who risked his or her life for this nation should come back home to waiting months and traveling dozens of miles for access to care.
“On behalf of all my fellow veterans, I once again urge Congress to act now.”
Andrzejczak served in the U.S. Army, attaining the rank of sergeant before being wounded during a 2008 deployment in Iraq.