The latest news affecting veterans and their families. http://www.vawatchdog.org "In my judgment, it cannot be fixed. We need to build a new system, and that is exactly what we are going to do." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031910-8.htm "At least the people in the future they'll have it documented so if something happens, they won't have to flounder around and wait and beg for 3 or 4 years to get their situation taken care of." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031910-7.htm "It culminates in a pile of rubble without any means of paying rent, making a car payment or buying food. Veterans are left with a sense that their country has let them down." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031910-6.htm Wells Fargo Bank was overcharging some veterans on their VA home loans. Now, they are settling. - with videos - http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031910-5.htm Milwaukee VA has a number of problems, including issues in three areas not corrected since the last VAOIG review. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031910-4.htm The nine new presumptives are specific infectious diseases including malaria and the West Nile virus. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031910-3.htm "We don't know yet what exactly accounts for the five and a half fold difference in surgery rates between the two systems." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031910-2.htm It would be unconscionable for disabled veterans to miss out on months of benefits because the government could not get its act together to issue a regulation on time. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031910-1.htm Nuclear Regulatory Commission says VA must pay 227,500 dollars for incorrect radiation dosing. It is the second largest fine the agency has ever levied. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031810-7.htm IG found lack of resources, lack of planning and more, all of which can delay the delivery of disability benefits. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031810-6.htm Veterans' Advocate Jim Strickland answers questions from VA Watchdog dot Org readers. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031810-5.htm The system was found to double pay 13 percent of the time, lower than the VA average, but still troublesome and time consuming. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031810-4.htm Inspector General finds problems in 17 key areas including not securing veterans' personally identifiable information. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031810-3.htm ACLU - "It makes me sad that the VA would treat any American, especially a veteran, like this. It shows disrespect for the Constitution and to veterans." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031810-2.htm Leaders of the major Veterans' and Military Service Organizations to offer their ideas on how to end the VA's claims backlog. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031810-1.htm Bilked donors out of 94,130 dollars which he claimed would be used to help veterans suffering from PTSD. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031710-4.htm Sen. Chuck Grassley - This "shows me that there are serious, systemic problems with the process for approving veterans' claims." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031710-3.htm "Service connection for Multiple Myeloma with prior symptoms - acute renal failure, anemia, and infections - has been established as directly related to military service." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031710-2.htm Just one of many problems - Endovaginal transducers were not submitted to disinfection as required after each patient procedure for approximately 2 years. Management knew and did nothing. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031710-1.htm During VHA's initial implementation of the Recovery Act, contracting officers did not properly publicize and prepare non-recurring maintenance contract solicitations and awards in accordance with Recovery Act requirements. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031610-10.htm Problems included poor attention to the medical needs of two residents and an insufficient level of activities for others. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031610-9.htm The current whistle-blower protection law " ... really wasn't intended to help if you blow the whistle on senior executives." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031610-8.htm A group of investors who wanted to turn the old Pan American Life Insurance building into housing and retail space plans to fight the state in court for more money. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031610-7.htm The House Committee on Veterans' Affairs has two hearings this week and there is one joint House-Senate hearing. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031610-6.htm The VA wants to reach people before the war experience explodes across the returning veteran's life. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031610-5.htm Veterans' Advocate Jim Strickland answers questions from VA Watchdog dot Org readers. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031610-4.htm The published findings are based on VA records for 117,071 African-American and 357,494 white patients, mostly men. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031610-3.htm "The defendant chose the rank of ... gunnery sergeant because it is a well-respected rank within the USMC." court documents state. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031610-2.htm "For what possible reason in 2010 is it necessary for the federal government ... to protect veterans FROM attorneys. My God man, how can these people face themselves ... " http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031610-1.htm "We expect that this, along with the University medical center, will be a cornerstone for health care for the future of New Orleans." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031510-5.htm "Not that we have anything against veterans, but it is an alternative use to the Education Fund that is going to mean more property taxes." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031510-4.htm "There's a vet alive today I hope will recover and live a long and fruitful life because of the actions of these two police officers." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031510-3.htm "Nobody that got off of that island is a hero," he said. "The heroes are still over there." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031510-2.htm "The DAV has finally come around to my point of view. It's taken years for me to shout out this information but if imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, the love that DAV has for my message is overwhelming." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031510-1.htm A complete, one-page look at VA and veterans' news for the week ending March 13, 2010. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031310-6.htm Based on the 2008 Institute of Medicine report, VA says there are no presumptive conditions related to DU exposure. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031310-5.htm Britten Walker, 32, threatened to kill a VA worker, and threatened to bomb a Buffalo television station and cars on the New York State Thruway. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031310-4.htm The VA document said there are reportedly two sets of patient information involved, one that includes more than 18 years of data, and another that includes up to three years of data. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031310-3.htm Lafayette Keaton claims to be a veteran of World War II, Korea and Vietnam. All wrong. -- with videos http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031310-2.htm The Task Force developed action plans to deliver new and improved tools for VA personnel based on seven core themes. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031310-1.htm About Veterans Support Organization - "It's a concern when they misrepresent the fact that there's going to be a homeless shelter that's going to be built with the money they're raising." with video http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031210-6.htm "It was like someone hit me upside the head with a 2X4 ... I just felt like this is what God wants me to do." - with video - http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031210-5.htm The biggest donation, 250,000 dollars, will go to Fisher House, a non-profit group that provides housing for families of veterans getting care at VA medical centers. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031210-4.htm "It didn't take long to sink in that this was the VA we're dealing with and this is a deliberate attempt to mess up this event." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031210-3.htm An Army specialist is apologizing for lying about being injured in Afghanistan, lying about his rank and wearing military honors that he hadn't earned. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031210-2.htm The VA Secretary wants one new Assistant Secretary and eight new Deputy Assistant Secretaries. Claims this will "streamline" the VA. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031210-1.htm But, with the VA dealing with a shortage of mental health and substance abuse counselors, can we believe the numbers they provide. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031110-6.htm "That one-on-one with the individual, I can't build that trust in them. Basically, those temporary doctors only refill prescriptions." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031110-5.htm "I can't absolve myself of Iraq. How deeply it affected me, I don't know ... I'm not the same person who left." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031110-4.htm VA lacks trained staff and beds for veterans seeking treatment, and does not effectively track treatment outcomes. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031110-3.htm Vet pleaded guilty to three misdemeanor charges of falsely claiming a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star with valor and creating a fake military ID card. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031110-2.htm From the imaging, "we can tell the ill veterans from the well veterans. And we can distinguish syndromes one, two and three from each other." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031110-1.htm The VA's Inspector General has launched a criminal investigation into a physician assistant's alleged downloading of veterans' clinical data at its Atlanta medical center. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031010-6.htm Jonathan Turley - " ... In the end, true valor cannot be stolen. It can only be earned. What is left are pathetic pretenders ... " http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031010-5.htm VA removed cop's arrest authority and gun, and he now is at a desk job, with his status "pending administrative action." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031010-4.htm "The comments made by Drs. Mattison and Liederman are both accurate, depending on the area of patient health information being accessed." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031010-3.htm "The latest saying is, 'We leave no veteran behind,' but I can tell you, we are being left behind all the time." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031010-2.htm "To Vietnam veterans, whose Agent Orange illnesses are becoming more debilitating, developing a computer program that could take a year is not the 'fast track' ... It is a death sentence." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf031010-1.htm But, is VA Secretary Shinseki howling at the moon. VA's attempts to automate the claims process in the past have proved disastrous. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030910-8.htm Even though there are many questions regarding the security of medical records in the private sector, especially at Kaiser Permanente. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030910-7.htm The groundbreaking Women Airforce Service Pilots were buried without military honors and long denied benefits. But now they'll receive the Congressional Gold Medal. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030910-6.htm Seroquel, a potentially deadly drug has been linked to the deaths of soldiers returning from war. Yet the FDA continues to approve it. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030910-5.htm The initiative will provide veterans and their spouses with the support they need to be successful in their transition to civilian careers. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030910-4.htm So far, IRS has rejected 1.7 million returns because they were filled out incorrectly. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030910-3.htm The House Committee on Veterans' Affairs has three hearings this week and there is one joint House-Senate hearing. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030910-2.htm Democrats on the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs are seeking just one-seventh the amount proposed by House Republicans. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030910-1.htm For years, they have cringed at Hollywood's portrayals of the Iraq and Afghan wars. And don't get them started on the "The Hurt Locker." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030810-6.htm When he started at the VA in the 1980s, Dr. Edmund Duthie was seeing patients who were veterans of WWI. Now, he's beginning to treat veterans of the Vietnam War. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030810-5.htm Veteran - "These people in the VA need to be more accountable for these delays." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030810-4.htm One official says everyone has access to everything, including veterans' files shared with VA. Another official says access is based on roles. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030810-3.htm Research shows that as of January, the rate of congenital heart defects was 95 per 1,000 births or 13 times Europe's rate. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030810-2.htm Republican Members of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs want to add 2.66 billion dollars including more money and staff for VAOIG oversight of VA operations. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030810-1.htm A complete, one-page look at VA and veterans' news for the week ending March 6, 2010. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030610-3.htm Angel Ocasio-Reyes never served in the military but wanted to belong to the American Legion. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030610-2.htm Vincent Ng is returning as acting director, accompanied by a VAOIG report that he misused funds and abused power the last time he headed the facility. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030610-1.htm DoD computer showed female prescribed an erectile dysfunction drug. VA found information was from another patient. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030510-10.htm The incident seems to echo some of the problems at the U. of Penn-run brachytherapy program at the Philadelphia VA Medical Center. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030510-9.htm Doctor who headed study says multiple deployments along with more and heavier gear are leading to problems. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030510-8.htm Landlords would not allow a Vietnam-era veteran with PTSD keep a service dog in his apartment. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030510-7.htm "He had been thrown out of the service for going AWOL when his unit was activated to go over-seas." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030510-6.htm Hormone replacement therapy in women 50-76 can increase risk of lung cancer by 50 percent. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030510-5.htm The one-time payment of 250 dollars was to help those affected by a zero COLA for the year of 2010. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030510-4.htm VA should develop and implement a plan to ensure that vulnerable elderly veterans admitted to VA hospitals have a documented assessment of cognitive functioning. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030510-3.htm He never served in Vietnam from 1971 to 1973, as he claimed. He was never even in the Army. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030510-2.htm The VARO did not meet the requirements for several operational areas reviewed. The VARO management team acknowledged this was due to a lack of management oversight. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030510-1.htm A representative from the state says the man had been distraught because his wife passed away. She says he was combative. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030410-7.htm Attorney for one official - "The suggestion that he acted inappropriately is flat out wrong, and as the facts come to light, we are confident he will be vindicated." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030410-6.htm Do people with brain injuries that have left them comatose or in a vegetative state respond differently to voices they know. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030410-5.htm Board declares 61 percent of applicants have had their status changed from a medical separation to retirement on the permanent disability list. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030410-4.htm "We believe it's our obligation to reach out to those veterans who find themselves involved in the criminal justice system." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030410-3.htm Vet testifies - "There was never any accountability in my experiences with the VA system. If I missed appointments or just stopped calling all together it did not seem to really matter to anyone." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030410-2.htm U.S. Attorney who showed fiduciary gambled the money away - "The defendant's offense was egregious ... There is simply no excuse or justification." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030410-1.htm "C and P Service is providing the following ... guidelines in order to promote ... awareness, consistency, and fairness in the handling of disability claims from Veterans with service in Southwest Asia." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030310-8.htm The scariest aspect of this story is how little coverage it has received. In official Washington, misconduct of this sort among so-called public servants is considered business as usual. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030310-7.htm "The reason guys like me are starting to speak up is because veterans can deal with it now or can self-medicate with drugs or alcohol and try to deal with it 40 years from now." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030310-6.htm VA and Stanford researchers say, "The numbers of affected people are huge, so even a small decrease is significant if you have large numbers of people involved." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030310-5.htm Israeli researcher has found that an injection of cortisol shortly after exposure to a traumatic event may prevent the onset of PTSD. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030310-4.htm NVLSP, the Legion and MOPH say delay will harm the Vietnam veterans who suffer from VA's new presumptive diseases associated with Agent Orange exposure. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030310-3.htm Female veteran - "They had a hard time comprehending I was a combat vet and didn't treat me with the same respect." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030310-2.htm Including the finding that staff could not identify surgical instruments so they could not properly assemble operating room sets. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030310-1.htm VA directive sets standards for mental health coverage in emergency departments and urgent care clinics in VHA facilities. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030210-7.htm "When almost every veteran who replied to the poll feels they cannot trust their VA compensation claim to be handled fairly, something needs to be done." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030210-6.htm Once ranked last in federal benefits to veterans, Ohio moved up the list with vets getting 12 percent more over a two year period. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030210-5.htm The House and Senate Committees each have one hearing scheduled, plus there are two joint hearings this week. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030210-4.htm Veterans' Advocate Jim Strickland answers questions from VA Watchdog dot Org readers. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030210-3.htm "The HDAC inhibitors are already being used in clinical trials, but in relation to other neurological diseases, like Alzheimer's and Huntington's." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030210-2.htm As the VA and Kaiser Permanente begin to share veterans' medical records, Kaiser adopts a "give everyone access to everything" policy. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030210-1.htm It is common for the state to seek payment for housing and medical services from the estates of veterans who lived or were under the medical care of any of the state's five veterans homes. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030110-5.htm Researchers want to study the chronic mental trauma some suffered after witnessing unprecedented bloodshed, then known as "solder's heart," now known as PTSD. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030110-4.htm "He would tell me he saw dead people walking around. He told me that every time he closed his eyes. he saw himself hanging above a chair." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030110-3.htm VA researchers found that transmissible spongiform encephalopathy can be induced without an outside catalyst like a virus. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030110-2.htm Jennifer Schingle, BVA attorney, on combat-related PTSD claims - "VA regulations ... have a disparate impact on female veterans who have a higher burden of proof ... " http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nfmar10/nf030110-1.htm A complete, one-page look at VA and veterans' news for the week ending February 27, 2010. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022710-7.htm However, given history, many veterans and their advocates are wary of more government promises. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022710-6.htm The fallout is physicians may scale back on the number of TRICARE and Medicare patients they treat and some may drop out of the programs entirely. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022710-5.htm As legal custodian, she stole about 15,000 dollars of her father's VA money and gambled it away. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022710-4.htm The old Army hospital in Pasadena, California now houses the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022710-3.htm He would prepare tax returns using the stolen information to generate bogus refunds. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022710-2.htm "It is incredible that with all of the public outrage and concern over this issue, the VA took no steps to preserve important records. This smacks of a cover-up to avoid liability ... " http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022710-1.htm The VA says it plans to review how regulations were written to ensure the veterans received the compensation they were entitled to under the law. The VA would then give veterans the opportunity to have a rejected claim reconsidered. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022610-6.htm "This development delays but does not deny justice for the Indiana Guardsmen in this case. The truth of what happened at Qarmat Ali will be told, and we believe it will be told in a federal court." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022610-5.htm Sen. Ron Wyden - "They're scaling back services because they think these budget savings aren't going to affect veterans. We don't buy that." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022610-4.htm "People that come forward claiming causation are all over the map ... this makes it very difficult to determine if there's an association." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022610-3.htm Gilbert Harges deposited his dead mother's VA checks for 19 years, even though Social Security had told VA of her death. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022610-2.htm Statements tell of government credit card misuse, working short shifts and taking full pay, sleeping on the job, and much more. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022610-1.htm He described himself as an Army veteran and said he'd taken 30 pills, which he described as "psychotic medication." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022510-6.htm However, veterans who participate in a medical cannabis program won't be refused other treatment at VA hospitals. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022510-5.htm Veterans' Advocate Jim Strickland answers questions from VA Watchdog dot Org readers. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022510-4.htm IG report substantiates abuse of authority, misuse of position, interference with OIG investigation, destruction of evidence, and more. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022510-3.htm "VA has limited information on potential problems and improvement opportunities regarding BDD claims." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022510-2.htm "Mr. Chief Justice, I'll bring the beer if you will sit down with Chief Judge Greene and Chairman Terry and run down the list of cases for, say, 2008, and work this all out." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022510-1.htm In litigating with veterans, the government more often than not takes a position that is substantially unjustified. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022410-8.htm The new outpatient clinic, run by Valor Healthcare, is unable to provide all the services required by the VA. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022410-7.htm "This comprehensive, nationwide advertising campaign will help us reach those student Veterans, servicemembers and educational administrators." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022410-6.htm Gould talks with The Washington Post about VA's hiring binge planned for the next two years. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022410-5.htm "Patient identification procedures should be reviewed to verify that there is consistent use of minimally two complete identifiers throughout the continuum of care." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022410-4.htm "We will end projects that don't work, streamline those that do, and focus on the responsibility we have for achieving maximum value for our Veterans." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022410-3.htm Has asked VA Secretary Shinseki to lower the required payments to no more than 20 percent of a veteran's monthly stipend. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022410-2.htm Tammy Duckworth to remain the VA's Assistant Secretary for Public and Intergovernmental Affairs. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022410-1.htm The investigation revealed that she introduced various toxic substances into her husband's beverages. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022310-6.htm The House Vets' Committee has six hearings scheduled and the Senate Committee has scheduled one hearing. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022310-5.htm Prosecutors say he often prescribed drugs such as Adderall and Tylenol 3 for people to use at parties at his house. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022310-4.htm Veterans' Advocate Jim Strickland answers questions from VA Watchdog dot Org readers. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022310-3.htm "Back when I was in the Army, back in the 1970s and '80s, we assumed drinking was mandatory. Really don't recall too many people who didn't drink." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022310-2.htm In the meantime, "We're going to fine-tune each of the pieces and then put that engine back together again and look for better processing by the end of the year." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022310-1.htm The Institute of Medicine will meet in Washington, DC on February 23 and 24. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022210-7.htm "The VA is totally unequipped to handle all the soldiers who are coming back from Iraq and Afghanistan and need help. This has been devastating to me and my family." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022210-6.htm The VA removed Avandia from their formulary in late 2007 citing safety reasons. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022210-5.htm Health officials believe as many as one million people may have been exposed to tainted water at the base before the wells closed two decades ago. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022210-4.htm Stephen Lucas, 65, recently announced his plans to retire, following a 36-year career in the VA health care system. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022210-3.htm The government recommended that he be sentenced to 21 months in prison and ordered to pay restitution of 149,234 dollars. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022210-2.htm Veterans' Advocate Jim Strickland - "Why keep open an aging building that serves little purpose for those of us who don't drink, don't smoke and don't have any interest in bingo games." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022210-1.htm A complete, one-page look at VA and veterans' news for the week ending February 20, 2010. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022010-7.htm The vet described to investigators how to construct explosive devices with household products and explained how he would place charges and remote detonator to cause damage. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022010-6.htm Rep. Joe Sestak said he wants to be able to assure veterans that any problems have been corrected, "but I can't do that if I can't see what's in the closet." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022010-5.htm VA Secretary Shinseki - "The men and women of VA and the veterans service organizations who understand the challenges in our claims processing systems have stepped up to deliver tangible results for our Nation's Veterans." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022010-4.htm Researchers examined the medical records of people receiving care through VA clinics and hospitals. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022010-3.htm Will look at allegations of whistleblower Dr. Kernan Manion who said Marines weren't getting proper treatment for PTSD. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022010-2.htm "As a result of not tracking local performance standards or overtime usage, VBA cannot accurately determine its workforce capacity and its future workforce needs." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf022010-1.htm Studies to look at the step-by-step cellular development of diseases to find out why they occur and what can be done to prevent them. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021910-7.htm What we know about the VA's plans to "recoup" advance payments made to veterans on the New G.I. Bill. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021910-6.htm Secretary Shinseki - "Dr. Petzel brings to this position a strong leadership background in caring for Veterans as a longtime health system manager in VA." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021910-5.htm Tammy Duckworth - "Often, it is us who see the signs of trouble in a veteran before they are willing to admit it." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021910-4.htm Will use Stimulus funds to hire 100 workers to expedite veterans' claims processing. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021910-3.htm "These are folks who've been dealing with the real symptoms of diseases for a long time and we want to get to the bottom of it." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021910-2.htm VA official on agency's web site - It's "all about telling the customer how great we are and how much we 'care' but not solving their problems as our constituents." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021910-1.htm "It is a shame that an institution founded on honor and integrity would resort to open deceit in order to protect their reputation at the cost of the health, safety and welfare of its service men, women and their families." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021810-7.htm "I remember thinking - This doesn't look good, smell good or taste good. I knew it couldn't be good for anybody." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021810-6.htm "Finally, they took an X-ray of my chest and told me I had a piece of metal in my chest." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021810-5.htm The VA will pay 5 million dollars to black workers who alleged that the Richmond hospital showed favoritism to white workers. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021810-4.htm Veteran says, "I am told I have one more appointment, one more appointment, one more appointment." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021810-3.htm Two workers at the VA's hospital golf course embezzled 180,000 dollars. The men, who have been fired, have pleaded guilty to theft of government funds. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021810-2.htm Veterans' Advocate Jim Strickland answers questions from VA Watchdog dot Org readers. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021810-1.htm VA network director Michael Moreland says, "He is absolutely not retiring under any pressure." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021710-6.htm Currently, the VA's computer system only knows if a doctor receives the alert but not what action was taken. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021710-5.htm VA Secretary Shinseki - "The evidence substantiates employees violated VA policy concerning the inspection and maintenance of medical equipment." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021710-4.htm Gilbert Harges deposited 221 VA checks made out to his dead Mom and spent the money on crack and alcohol. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021710-3.htm The dreaded colonoscopy may get the most attention but a cheap, old-fashioned stool test works, too. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021710-2.htm Problems include patient's personal information not secured, no follow-up on patients taking atypical antipsychotic drugs, and more. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021710-1.htm "It's inhumane to see someone laying there, embalmed for over two months and not being buried." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021610-6.htm The veteran was an inpatient in a VA substance abuse program and he obtained a bottle of vodka off campus and brought it back to the center. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021610-5.htm Veterans' Advocate Jim Strickland answers questions from VA Watchdog dot Org readers. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021610-4.htm VA documents released under FOIA detail problems at Regional Offices in St. Petersburg, Winston-Salem, Detroit, Albuquerque and others. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021610-3.htm Why hundreds of thousands of Vietnam vets with Agent Orange-related diseases have been made to suffer without VA health care. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021610-2.htm VA now says only 17 of 97 events at the Philadelphia prostate cancer treatment program qualify as violations. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021610-1.htm Care will be focused on patient needs and desires as opposed to traditional methods of care delivery which are focused on the provider and the needs of the system. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021510-7.htm "What's equally offensive about these two men is the DAV and the VA allowed this scam to go on unnoticed, undetected, negligently." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021510-6.htm "We've heard from a lot of elderly beneficiaries that it's tough to get out sometimes." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021510-5.htm "We need as a culture to find ways to not blame soldiers who are ashamed of killing." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021510-4.htm Rep. Joe Sestak - "Failure to identify any other reports reflecting poorly on the VA would represent a breach of faith and trust with our veterans, their families and the American public." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021510-3.htm Two years ago, Raymond Ice charged at a group of police officers at the Cleveland VA, where he had been receiving treatment. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021510-2.htm "I was enraged they would send us over there and not tell us about the spray, and keep it a secret. I felt like we were betrayed, and we were." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021510-1.htm A complete, one-page look at VA and veterans' news for the week ending February 14, 2010. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021410-4.htm "Those with medical records, which have some of the most personal information people have, have a legal, ethical and even moral obligation to secure that information." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021410-3.htm Sen. Mark Begich to hold two Senate Vets' Committee field hearings to explore major problems facing Alaska veterans. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021410-2.htm Fresh scrutiny of government procurement efforts relating to EHR systems has raised serious questions about what is being done. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021410-1.htm And, studies show racial disparities still exist in the way modern veterans receive care and compensation from the VA. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021210-7.htm Experts conclude there is further need for the VA and other health care systems to develop new and innovative ways to overcome barriers to care. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021210-6.htm "We don't prosecute people for wrong beliefs in the United States. We do prosecute them for telling lies in important matters." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021210-5.htm An attorney for the group said the government took a "leap first, look later" approach to picking the Mid-City site. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021210-4.htm Last year, 9,199 soldiers enrolled in treatment after being diagnosed with alcohol problems, a 56 percent increase over 2003. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021210-3.htm As of Feb. 5, nearly 90 percent of enrollments for the 167,000 veterans submitted to the VA for the Post 9-11 GI Bill had been paid out, the VA said. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021210-2.htm Thomas J. Reed, Director Widener University School of Law Veterans Law Clinic, says the system must change. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021210-1.htm Vet kills shelter director, then was shot to death by police when he charged at them with a knife and ax. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021110-6.htm Mrs. Hon says the staff prescribed more medications. The next day, Ron, her husband, committed suicide. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021110-5.htm The staff was so inattentive that a patient who died in a toilet was not even discovered until his body had turned cold. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021110-4.htm VAOIG documents released under FOIA shed more light on VA's file shredding and mishandling, and date changing. VA employee says they were told to shred files a few at a time so as not to draw attention. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021110-3.htm "What we always hear is that there is just no funding for us. 'Sorry, this is not your year.'" http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021110-2.htm Veterans' Advocate Jim Strickland - "Your status as a disabled veteran holds no special immunity or promise of preferential treatment in most legal and financial arenas." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021110-1.htm "We had to make cuts, just like every other state department. We had no options. Everybody is tightening their belts." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021010-7.htm "It will be gratifying to see the law changed. I know there are a lot of people who are struggling to get their pensions back and really need them." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021010-6.htm System allows veterans to transmit health information electronically, so they don't have to come to the hospital as often. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021010-5.htm Entrepreneurs will be allowed only one company at a time in the contracting program and must work full time in the business. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021010-4.htm VA will choose 100 of the ideas and invite their authors to submit full proposals. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021010-3.htm A California man convicted of falsely claiming to be a decorated Marine, is asking the U.S. Court of Appeals to overturn the conviction and rule the Stolen Valor Act unconstitutional. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021010-2.htm At this time, no new dates for hearings on the VA's 2011 budget have been announced. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf021010-1.htm Woman provided false information to get more than 20,000 dollars from a veterans' relief aid group. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020910-5.htm John Murtha was a decorated Vietnam War veteran and it surprised many people that he was such a vocal opponent of the war in Iraq. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020910-4.htm Veterans' Advocate Jim Strickland answers questions from VA Watchdog dot Org readers. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020910-3.htm The number of female veterans being treated by the VA has doubled in recent years and is expected to double again within a decade. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020910-2.htm On February 10, the House and Senate Veterans' Committees will take a look at the VA's fiscal year 2011 budget. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020910-1.htm The last chapter of his life started with a persistent cough four years ago. Then his lungs started turning to bricks. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020810-6.htm "I did it because I am on all these narcotics through the VA. The narcotics tear your liver up ... " http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020810-5.htm Shoshana Johnson, held for 22 days - "It was kind of hurtful. If I'd been a petite, cutesy thing, it would've been different." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020810-4.htm " ... We think one possibility is spontaneous combustion due to heat from the dryer and residual chemicals in the basket from washing." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020810-3.htm "It's scary. It seems like the 'Nam guys aren't going to be around a long time, not like their fathers." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020810-2.htm The Institute of Medicine will look at what was in burn pits in Iraq and Afghanistan and the by-products of burning. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020810-1.htm All the VA and veteran news from the past week on one easy-to-read page. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020610-5.htm Jim Bob Shipp collected over 800,000 dollars in VA benefits by faking severe vision impairment. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020610-4.htm The 23-year-old veteran fell behind in her bills and had to take out loans to cover her expenses. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020610-3.htm Michael Patrick McManus, in Army uniform, wore unearned medals and one around his neck that indicated he is a Commander of the British Empire. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020610-2.htm Nearly 145 years after his death, a ceremony honored Civil War hero Lorenzo Deming, who had been awarded the military's highest honor. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020610-1.htm All the VA and veteran news from the past week on one easy-to-read page. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020510-6.htm "It was really nasty stuff. We didn't wear masks. When we were spraying it, we didn't know it could affect humans." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020510-5.htm Commentary from Paul Rieckhoff, executive director of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020510-4.htm "I am getting medical treatment from the VA. She said she is going to help me. I feel good about that." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020510-3.htm Thurman Powers stole money from the travel pay cash box at the Memphis VA facility. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020510-2.htm Inspector General is concerned that this incorrect practice may be happening at other VA facilities and for other conditions. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020510-1.htm All the VA and veteran news from the past week on one easy-to-read page. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020410-6.htm VA's Info Tech programs have been plagued by disastrous delays and serious cost overruns. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020410-5.htm Veterans' Advocate Jim Strickland answers questions from VA Watchdog dot Org readers. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020410-4.htm The Independent Budget wants more money for care and says the projected collections figure is off by over 3 billion. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020410-3.htm Jeffry Polak said he felt entitled to the large screen TV because it was owned by the "military." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020410-2.htm Congressional testimony - VA lacked reasonable assurance it received the services it paid for, paid many contractors twice, and more. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020410-1.htm All the VA and veterans' news from the past week on one easy-to-read page. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020310-7.htm "I pulled the trigger quickly, twice. Pop ... pop." Then he checked his attacker's ID. He was 12. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020310-6.htm "I started seeing animals coming out of walls. People were constantly calling my name, and I'd turn around, and there was no one there." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020310-5.htm The proposal, outlined in an OMB document, would make all medically retired service members eligible for concurrent receipt by 2015. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020310-4.htm "With this new law, VA will be positioned to help veterans who are enrolled in VA care whose insurance does not cover the full cost of emergency treatment." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020310-3.htm Frank Buckles said he has much to be thankful for as he blew out 109 candles on his birthday cake. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020310-2.htm Problems include unsecured computers displaying vets' personal information and dangling cords in mental health unit. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020310-1.htm Now, VA Watchdog's Week in Review allows you to get all the VA and veterans news, plus press releases from the past week, on a single page. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020210-7.htm The House Vets' Committee has scheduled three hearings and the Senate Committee has nothing scheduled. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020210-6.htm Concerns about medical liability, insurance coverage and a lack of training for doctors mean an apology after medical errors is the exception. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020210-5.htm Norma Perez urged her VA employees to misdiagnose PTSD. Now, VA says backup tapes were destroyed, including the one containing the Perez email. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020210-4.htm VA official says budget request is not too big, not too small, but "just right." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020210-3.htm Fired after criticizing subpar care for Marines, a psychiatrist finds his good personnel reviews turned to bad. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020210-2.htm Veterans' Advocate Jim Strickland answers questions from VA Watchdog dot Org readers. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020210-1.htm Would be one of the largest increases in 2011 federal budget. Article includes VA budget documents. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020110-9.htm Now, VA Watchdog's Week in Review allows you to get all the VA and veterans news, plus press releases from the past week, on a single page. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020110-8.htm "My concern for Robert goes much deeper than the VA PTSD compensation. It's that he continue to receive proper treatment from the VA." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020110-7.htm "She was like in a cocoon. She was just existing -- going down the halls like a ghost. Now it's like she's come alive." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020110-6.htm "It's not about me. Every one of us can tell our own story. Start telling it. Change the culture of silence." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020110-5.htm "It was U.S. servicemen who went back in small numbers that led to the whole movement of reconciliation, not the politicians, not the statesmen, but the men who fought the war." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020110-4.htm And, unemployment, mental stress and pregnancy swelling numbers of younger, female veterans on the street. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020110-3.htm "Was a great deal overlooked because this was a medical person in a specialty in which there is a shortage." http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020110-2.htm But, will VA ask for enough. Plus, a look at how the federal budget process works. http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/nf10/nffeb10/nf020110-1.htm