On Monday, Nov. 24, the Department of Veterans Affairs fired Sharon Helman, director of the VA hospital in Phoenix, Arizona.
Waiting lists affected the health of many veterans
Inspectors discovered in May that some VA health care facilities were placing patients – even extremely ill ones – on lengthy wait lists. With no other medical options, many of these people experienced worsening conditions. The New York Times reported that while this number has not been confirmed, as many as 40 veterans in Phoenix alone could have perished as a result of these seemingly endless wait lists.
The Phoenix facility immediately came under fire when inspectors discovered that about 1,700 patients had been placed on the wrong wait lists – a factor that contributed to an even longer wait before treatment was available. TheTimes noted that once investigators began looking at the institution, it was clear that the hospital was understaffed for the amount of area veterans looking for care in their life after service.
Not only were wait times outrageous and often incorrect, but they were being kept secret from officials. As evidence came to light, it was obvious that hospital administration was playing a large role in neglecting to address the situation, reported The Times.
Moving forward
After allegations against the Arizona facility proved true, Helman was placed on six months leave. The public pushed for more severe action once the scandal became clearer, however. The Times reported that after months of public outrage, she has finally been "formally removed." Currently, the former head of Milwaukee's VA hospital, Glen Grippen, is leaving retirement to run the medical facility, reported AZ Central. Officials have yet to appoint a new permanent director, and Grippen could remain in the position for up to a year as VA administrators look for a qualified replacement.
Hiring increases have also begun for the institution, which was previously operating with a shortage of physicians. AZ Central noted that almost 500 positions have been filled with the organization, including 115 slots for nurses and 22 openings for doctors.
In addition to Helman, the VA secretary during the scandal, Eric K. Shinseki was also removed. He was replaced with current leader Robert A. McDonald, who has stated that the faulty practices are not in line with how veterans should be treated, and he hopes to improve medical care for former servicemembers, reported The Times.