Oregon Senate backs Buehler bid to boost veterans’ care
The Oregon Senate voted unanimously Monday in support of a measure introduced by Rep. Knute Buehler, R-Bend, to help veterans access local health care through existing federal programs such as Patient-Centered Community Care (PC3) and Choice.
“Caring for our veterans isn’t a Democrat or a Republican responsibility–it’s a sacred American obligation,” said Buehler.
“As a doctor, I have treated veterans for chronic battlefield injuries and have heard the first-hand accounts of delayed treatment and bureaucratic mismanagement with the Veterans Administration. This experience has also allowed me to witness the courage, character and humility of our local veterans and their families. They are remarkable.”
HJM 14 brings attention to the issue of rural access to health care for veterans and calls on the Department of Veterans Affairs to better utilize existing resources to serve veterans – namely the Patient-Centered Community Care (PC3) and Choice programs.
The measure also calls on the VA to release key performance data on the programs to promote transparency and more accountability.
The VA set aside approximately $9 billion in funding for PC3, but very few veterans or providers are aware of the program.
By releasing the information and bringing attention to this problem, the VA can raise awareness of what is available for veteran service members and ensure the money is spent wisely.
It also urges Congress to do more for veterans who do not currently have access to local health care, either through existing programs or other means.
HJM 14 has bipartisan support, including legislators from Central Oregon and several members from the Veterans and Emergency Preparedness committee.
“Veterans should not have to travel several hours to receive medical treatment, especially, when the opportunity to be seen near home exists,” said Buehler. “HJM 14 brings attention to this problem and shows local veterans that we care.”
Buehler says he plansto hand-deliver the joint resolution in person to officials in Washington D.C.
