Josh Harder: “I stand here today beyond frustrated by the crisis in veterans' healthcare in my community. Right now, we have just four…”

“I stand here today beyond frustrated by the crisis in veterans' healthcare in my community. Right now, we have just four physicians and only two mental health clinicians trying to provide care for over 27,000 veterans in San Joaquin County. Veterans are waiting up to 90 days to even speak to a doctor or get something as simple as a prescription refilled. That is the longest wait time in the State of California and, frankly, it is a disgrace. One of our veterans recently had to have his leg amputated because he couldn't see a doctor to get his diabetes medication refilled. That is unacceptable. I know our local VA staff are doing everything they can, but right now we need Secretary McDonough to step in and help. We need more doctors, and we need them now. I have petitions right here in my hand from veterans across our community begging for a response and an action plan from the Secretary and the VA. We need answers. These brave men and women fought and sacrificed for our country, the last thing they need to do is fight for their healthcare right now. It is time to fix this. ____________________”