U.S. Representative John Boehner
More Than 57,000 Veterans Waiting for an Appointment

Congressman John Boehner (R-West Chester) issued the following statement after the VA reported that more than 57,000 veterans are still waiting for an initial medical appointment at VA health facilities:

“The fact that more than 57,000 veterans are still waiting for their first doctor appointment from the VA is a national disgrace. The House will act this week on a common-sense bill that would allow any veteran forced to wait more than 30 days for an appointment the option to receive private-sector care. It’s an important bill, and the president should call on the Senate to pass it immediately after the House acts.”

NOTE: Last week, House GOP leaders sent President Obama a letter requesting that he take several immediate steps to address the scandal, including the measure on the House floor this week, as well as offer a long-term vision for reforming the systemic problems plaguing the VA.

After hearing from an overwhelming number of veterans from his district, Congressman Boehner last February and April sent letters to the VA Secretary seeking answers to the VA claims backlog.

Last July, Congressman Boehner was joined by Members of Congress from the Ohio delegation in a letter to the Secretary demanding from the VA a direct and transparent plan for addressing the VA backlog.

Ever since, Congressman Boehner has continued to press the VA and the administration on their commitment to our local veterans in Ohio.