I do not think that is accurate. I do not think it is fair.

Often the rationale for expanding scope of practice is so individuals get care in rural areas.

Let us not forget that when considering policies that may have a significant impact on the care they receive.

Lessening in my opinion the quality of care because of a perceived access issue really is not what our veterans deserve.

Which is why it is tremendously concerning.

the VA should never give up, ever give up on delivering the highest quality of health care.

In my opinion, in my medical opinion, there is a team concept and there has to be one quarterback.

Which is exactly why we are having this hearing and exactly why as a nurse married to a nurse, as a doctor, as a veteran, I am concerned about the secrecy.

In Congress, we provide oversight, especially for Federal healthcare which is the VA.

To be clear, I do not consider an optometrist a physician.

It is important to me and to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle that all veterans seeking care in the VA are ensured quality care that is safe and effective.

I firmly believe that physicians with their extensive medical training and clinical experience play a pivotal role in providing comprehensive care for veterans.

Veterans like all Americans deserve access to the full spectrum of medical expertise available to address their healthcare needs.

I have heard that the VA has made a greater effort to engage these groups in the ensuing months and that is something I hope to hear more about today.

People do not typically get sued because they have got a bad outcome. They get sued because they have a poor relationship with an unhappy patient.

We do not want to be doctors. That is where I think a lot of physicians really get confused.

Together we must ensure that veterans receive the highest standard of care and that their healthcare needs are met by providers with the appropriate qualifications and expertise.

What harms veterans is when we cannot give them the healthcare that they deserve.

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