WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (Kan.) – ranking member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee – today released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Office of Inspector General (OIG) published a report finding the Buffalo VA Medical Center (VAMC) failed to coordinate community care referrals, resulting in an increased risk of patient harm and decreased quality of life:

“In the last year, I have repeatedly asked VA leaders – through letters, hearings, in meetings and on the Senate Floor – to take a personal interest and accountability with regard to delays in care for veterans. This report shows the tragic consequences for veterans and their families that occur when that doesn’t happen.

“It is disturbing that before this report, VHA leaders were unaware of the issues at this facility, even after the Buffalo VAMC conducted its own internal investigation in September 2023. Senior VA leaders must be far more engaged on making certain that such a large portion of the veteran healthcare system is functioning properly.

“I am gravely concerned for the veterans and families impacted by this failure in Buffalo, and for veterans and families across the country who are experiencing similar issues today.

“The lapses in care described in this report cannot be ignored. VA must answer to Congress, veterans and the American people by acting without delay to hold leadership and staff accountable through conducting an immediate national review of backlogged consults everywhere. I have also spoken to Inspector General Missal and asked him to expand his review of VHA community care practices at facilities across the country.”

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