If asked, most Americans would likely agree that the men and women who fought for us during global conflicts should receive any medical attention they might require in a speedy and competent manner. A different, much more shameful truth is slowly emerging across our country, a truth that paints a grotesque picture of injury, neglect and even wrongful death as our veterans languish away, untreated by the Veteran’s Administration.
What could cause a tragedy like this and what can we do about it as Americans? Some cite lack of accountability on the presidential administration’s part and others simply cry widespread mismanagement, but no one can seem to agree on what legal action to take against the personal injury storm brewing inside the VA.
According to a story in NewsMax, the VA scandal has spread to 16 states and more than 25 hospitals, as of May 22. From painful and entirely preventable deaths in several states to whispers of appointment book doctoring in order to comply with scheduling rules set by the VA, one thing remains clear: the system is as sick as the veterans allegedly being left to suffer untreated.
In Atlanta, at least three veterans died due to alleged mismanagement. In Columbia, South Carolina, six vets allegedly died when simple colorectal-cancer screenings were delayed. In Phoenix, at least 40 veterans died in the midst of excruciating pain from cancer because they allegedly could not get life-saving treatment. Other allegations in other states describe unlawful acts like protecting pay bonuses with scheduling manipulation, document shredding to cover up waiting times and concealing evidence about secret wait lists.
The question of what Americans can do about this alleged medical malpractice still lingers. Ordinary citizens as well as veterans can report and pursue legal action. It doesn’t sound like much, but it’s a powerful tool anyone can access. This combined with the important work prosecutors and personal injury attorneys are doing across the country to stop this shameful situation might move mountains when we all take part in protecting and honoring our veterans.
Source: NewsMax, “VA Hospitals Are Now Crime Scenes” Deroy Murdock, May. 22, 2014
