U.S. Reps. Ryan Costello (R-PA) and Mike Fitzpatrick (R-PA) on Friday introduced the Veteran Engagement Team (VET) Act, which aims to create a “one-stop-shop” for veterans who need help from VA Regional Offices by creating coordination at all levels.
Community doctors and veteran service representatives would be able to offer free services locally under the measure. Using existing staff, the VA would coordinate the services from community facilities used at minimal or no cost.
“Veterans are people, not just claims numbers,” Costello said. “As we have repeatedly seen, we need a culture change at VA Regional Offices, particularly the Philadelphia Regional Office, and the VET Act is an effort to move the VA forward.”
Under the proposal, VA staff would have to account for their efforts by submitting regular reports including the number and types of claims completed, an explanation of the claims they were unable to complete, and an overview of customer satisfaction.
“We cannot continue with business as usual at the VA, especially the Philadelphia VA Regional Office,” Fitzpatrick said. “Our veterans deserve better quality and more prompt care they can trust. They have earned it.”