Press Releases

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1) made the following statement on the report released today by the VA Office of the Inspector General:

“After reviewing the Veterans Health Administration Interim Report on the Phoenix Health Care System, I have lost confidence in Secretary Shinseki’s ability to effectively lead the Department of Veterans Affairs. Though I deeply respect Secretary Shinseki’s service to our nation as both a military leader and as an advocate for our nation’s veterans, it is time that he be held accountable for his Department’s inexcusable performance.

The VA needs new management that possesses the ability to institute comprehensive culture change. The VA Inspector General report reveals a systemic failure by the VA to fulfill basic patient rights and makes it very clear that disgraceful scheduling tactics and other unacceptable practices have been occurring for years. Transformational change must occur in the leadership and culture of the VA, and reforms must be undertaken immediately to ensure that our nation’s veterans receive the care they have earned and deserved.

I urge the VA to take immediate action to ensure that all veterans currently awaiting care, and specifically those at the greatest risk, receive appropriate medical care in a timely manner. I will work to ensure that those responsible for these unacceptable failures are held accountable.”

Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee.