Morning Briefing
Summaries of health policy coverage from major news organizations
Flurry Of Bills Target Ongoing Troubles At VA
The Washington Post: VA Remains Work In Progress Year After Scandal Broke
More than a year after a scandal erupted over the cover-up of long wait times at VA care facilities, the effort to reform the agency is a long way from finished. The flurry of legislation that started shortly after the cover-up was exposed continues, often with VA employees the target. The bills reveal differing congressional philosophies but don’t always break along party lines. And the first law to emerge in the wake of the scandal is now the subject of a constitutional challenge. (Davidson, 5/14)
The Associated Press: Lawmakers: Future Of Over-Budget Denver VA Hospital Unclear
The chairmen of the House and Senate Veterans committees said Thursday the future of an over-budget VA hospital under construction in Denver is unclear because the Veterans Affairs Department hasn't come up with an acceptable plan for funding it. Sen. Johnny Isakson of Georgia and Rep. Jeff Miller of Florida also criticized the VA for not punishing those responsible for the overrun. The rare joint statement shows how unhappy Congress is with the project and with the VA's response. (Elliott, 5/15)
