DAV Demands Accountability in Veterans' Deaths

WASHINGTON, April 24, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- DAV (Disabled American Veterans) is calling for a full investigation of allegations that at least 40 patients have died awaiting treatment at the Department of Veterans Affairs medical center in Phoenix, and that some of them were put on a secret list to hide the wait times from officials in Washington.

According to news reports, leadership at the Phoenix facility was aware of the practice, a charge that the medical center director has denied.

Earlier today, VA officials briefed veterans service organizations, including DAV, about the situation and outlined the department's plans to move forward with an investigation. Meanwhile, the VA's Office of the Inspector General is conducting its own investigation.

"The health and well-being of veteran patients is the VA's top priority and anything that may put them in jeopardy must be fully investigated," said DAV Washington Headquarters Executive Director Garry Augustine. "We look forward to the results of these investigations, and if there is any evidence of wrongdoing or knowledgeable neglect, those responsible must be held to account."

It has been alleged that the leadership at the Phoenix VA kept two sets of patient waiting lists; one used to report average appointment waiting times to Washington and the other one to schedule appointments as they became available. VA medical facilities are required to provide care to patients typically within 14 to 30 days, depending on the availability and specialty required. The so-called secret list tracks real appointment waiting times, some of which were beyond the VA required timeframe.  News reports also claim hard copy evidence documenting veterans' initial appointment requests were shredded in order to hide the lengthy wait list.

About DAV
DAV empowers veterans to lead high-quality lives with respect and dignity. It is dedicated to a single purpose: fulfilling our promises to the men and women who served. DAV does this by ensuring that veterans and their families can access the full range of benefits available to them; fighting for the interests of America's injured heroes on Capitol Hill; and educating the public about the great sacrifices and needs of veterans transitioning back to civilian life. DAV, a non-profit organization with 1.2 million members, was founded in 1920 and chartered by the U. S. Congress in 1932. Learn more at www.dav.org.

Contact:  
David Autry
202-324-5219

SOURCE DAV (Disabled American Veterans)