Secretary Collins talks VA improvements ahead of Veterans Day
JACKSON, Tenn. — Ahead of Veterans Day, the Department of Veteran Affairs shares the importance of the holiday and the improvements they’re making.
Veterans Day is a federal holiday observed annually on November 11 to honor all who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Ahead of the holiday, we sat down with the Department of Veteran Affairs Secretary Doug Collins, who shares a message to the men and women who fought for our country.
“You’re the reason that this country is strong and great, because you chose to raise your right hand and go into the military, and we’re here now to serve you as you come out of the military and into transition to civilian life, so that you’ll have all of the benefits that you’ve earned,” said Secretary Collins.
This year, the VA has launched a host of major reforms to improve benefits and services for veterans.
Collins highlights key accomplishments including reducing the backlog of veterans waiting for benefits, which is down 45%.
“It’s also meant taking our hospitals, and making sure that we’re using the community to help us partner with our direct care to get community doctors, so that veterans get the absolute best care that they need in a quick, timely, and quality fashion,” Collins said.
The VA opened 20 new health care clinics, expanding access for vets across the country.
“One of the challenges is updating our technology, making sure that technology is keeping up with where we need to be especially in processing disability claims, using technology in our hospitals,” Collins said.
As the government shutdown continues, many veterans worry about their benefits and healthcare.
“You can still go to the hospitals, the clinics, your doctor’s appointments will all be done. Where it’s really affected us in our educational benefits, our vocational rehab,” Collins said.
Collins says the shutdown has slowed down their processing on benefits and disability claims, but assures veterans that they are still working hard to get you taken care of.
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