Congressman Biggs Demands Answers for Concerning Discrepancies Regarding Veterans’ Access to Healthcare

Today, Congressman Andy Biggs (R-AZ) led a letter, cosigned by Arizona Congressmen Paul Gosar and Eli Crane, to Bryan Matthews, Medical Center Director for the Phoenix Veterans Affairs Health Care System (PHX VAHCS). The letter addresses conflicting statements from national and local Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) leadership about the VA's funding shortfall and the impact it could have on veterans' care.

On July 15, the VA informed the House Committee on Veterans Affairs that there would be an estimated $2.88 billion shortfall for FY 2024 in addition to $11.97 billion in FY 2025. Constituents reported to the offices of Congressmen Biggs, Gosar, and Crane that Veterans Health Administration (VHA) representatives conveyed that the funding shortfall could limit referrals for community care and result in a hiring freeze for the VA. Congressional staff raised these concerns with Director Matthews on July 19, and the reports were refuted.

Congressman Biggs's letter presses Director Matthews to clarify whether PHX VAHCS knew of the funding shortfall before the meeting with Congressional staff and requests information on how this shortfall may impact Arizona veterans seeking health care services.

"Our veterans deserve to receive the care we promised," said Congressman Biggs.

"The VA needs to be upfront with Congress and veterans about the resources they need to provide the level of care that is expected and the benefits that were assured. This eleventh-hour disclosure, well after the appropriations process has begun, is irresponsible and could harm our veterans.

"I am grateful for the support of my colleagues on this crucial issue and look forward to a prompt response from Director Matthews."

Congressman Biggs's letter may be read here.