VA hospitals provide professional care

In this day of blaming everybody for what is wrong with the Veterans Affairs health system, I would just like to publicly state that never have I received such professional care and treatment in a timely manner in the past few months as at our local VA hospital. I wish I didn’t need it. Many have much more serious physical and mental challenges than I at the present time. 

From the moment one reports to the facility, you are met by a roving volunteer ambassador and escorted to the area where the treatment or appointment is made. If one has to wait for treatment, rarely does it exceed 10 minutes or so. Everyone is treated fairly and with respect — regardless — of one’s rank or health issue. 

Speaking as a former Marine of eight years as well as a active duty professional soldier for over 15 years, I can attest to the quality of care and concern that “our” VA hospital gives to each and every patient. It is no surprise that our VA hospital and clinic facilities are rated so high nationally speaking. 

Truly — there are problems in the system. Those issues are being addressed in a timely manner. A lot of those issues could be rectified if the veterans themselves had the correct paperwork BEFORE they are discharged from active service — especially one’s medical records. That is the veteran’s responsibility, NOT the VA. 

We are fortunate to have such a caring facility and professional staff who care for us —regardless — of one’s situation.

Graeme Webster, SFC. U.S. Army. (RET)

Cheney