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Spokane VA also troubled

Mon., June 16, 2014

Issues facing our Veterans Administration hospitals also exist at our Spokane facility. It may not be broad-based, yet does exist in behavioral health. That critical unit deals with veterans having emotional issues or behavioral concerns related to combat or injuries sustained in combat.

The department is six months behind in scheduling, with some veterans having appointments canceled due to more acute cases or shortage of staff. A doctor left in May due to disillusionment, workload, sense of failing our veterans and feeble support from superiors.

Sometimes, the best trait that can be provided is a 10-15 minute phone call. Hardly a way to provide adequate care.

Bob Suess

Steptoe, Wash.

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