D.C. News: Focusing on health care for veterans
Washington, D.C. – Governor Calvo shared the challenges Veterans on Guam face in getting the health care they need during a meeting with the U.S. Veterans Affairs Secretary.
“We have one of the highest rates of enlistment and most veterans per capita in the nation, yet our island’s Veterans don’t receive the care they deserve,” Governor Calvo said. “That needs to change.”
U.S. Veterans Affairs Secretary David Shulkin said he would like to visit Guam to better understand the unique issues that our island’s veterans face.
Governor Calvo discussed common complaints related to the lack of services on Guam for veterans. The Governor said the VA Guam Community Based Outpatient Clinic doesn’t adequately serve veterans’ medical needs. Often times, Veterans face long wait times for appointments or are told that the services they need aren’t available at the facility.
The Governor also brought up concerns about Agent Orange, noting the veterans coming forward about the use of Agent Orange on Guam. Governor Calvo has pressed the issue with federal officials throughout his trip in D.C.
“Our veterans have already laid their lives on the line. They shouldn’t have to face health problems as a result of contaminants they came in contact with during their service,” the Governor said.
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Photo attached (More photos of the Governor’s discussions with federal officials can be found on his Facebook page: www.facebook.com/eddiebazacalvo)
