Enhancing Veterans Affairs Services for the 21st Century

---

As a candidate for U.S. Congress in Virginia's 2nd Congressional District and a military spouse, I intimately understand the challenges veterans face in accessing timely, effective, and comprehensive services through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Drawing from my family's experiences, this policy proposal outlines actionable strategies to improve VA services to better serve those who have served us.

Improving Access to Care

Objective: Eliminate barriers and reduce wait times for veterans seeking medical and mental health care.

• Expand Community Care Networks:
  • Increase partnerships between the VA and private healthcare providers to ensure veterans have access to care, even in underserved or rural areas.
• Increase Telehealth Accessibility: 
  • Provide funding to expand telehealth services, ensuring veterans in all locations have access to high-quality care for physical and mental health needs.
• Extend Hours of Operation:
  • Introduce extended clinic hours and weekend services to accommodate working veterans and their families.

Streamlining VA Processes

Objective: Simplify administrative hurdles for veterans and their families.

• Implement Universal Records Management: 
  • Transition to a single, unified electronic health record (EHR) system to streamline communication between the VA and Department of Defense (DoD), reducing delays in service eligibility and care continuity.
• Accelerate Claims Processing:
  • Hire and train additional VA claims processors and incorporate AI-driven tools to expedite claims while maintaining accuracy.
• One-Stop Support Centers:
  • Develop regional “one-stop” centers where veterans can access services for healthcare, education benefits, housing, and employment under one roof.

Enhancing Mental Health Support

Objective: Address the unique mental health challenges faced by veterans and their families.

• Prioritize Suicide Prevention Programs: 
  • Fully fund and expand evidence-based suicide prevention initiatives, including crisis intervention training and peer support networks.
• Introduce Spousal and Family Counseling: 
  • Ensure VA programs include accessible mental health services for military spouses and children to foster a supportive home environment for veterans.
• Invest in Post-Traumatic Growth Programs: 
  • Establish programs that help veterans reintegrate into civilian life through mentorship, education, and career development.

Supporting Transition to Civilian Life

Objective: Provide robust support for veterans as they reintegrate into civilian life.

• Job Placement and Training:
  • Expand the VA’s vocational rehabilitation programs to include partnerships with tech companies, trade schools, and apprenticeship programs.
• Housing Assistance:
  • Increase funding for the HUD-VASH program (Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing) and implement measures to reduce homelessness among veterans.
• Childcare Support for Veteran Families: 
  • Establish childcare subsidy programs for veterans pursuing education, training, or employment.

Strengthening Accountability and Oversight

Objective: Build trust in the VA by ensuring transparency and efficient use of resources.

• Create Regional Oversight Boards: 
  • Involve veterans, family members, and local stakeholders in evaluating the performance of VA facilities and making recommendations for improvement.
• Mandatory Reporting on Wait Times and Outcomes: 
  • Require VA facilities to publish quarterly reports on patient wait times and care outcomes to promote transparency and accountability.
• Independent Audits: 
  • Conduct regular third-party audits of VA spending and operations to ensure funds are used effectively and identify areas for improvement.

Advocating for Legislation to Protect Veterans' Benefits

Objective: Safeguard the rights and benefits veterans have earned.

• Oppose Cuts to VA Funding:
  • Advocate for sustainable funding that keeps pace with the growing needs of veterans and their families.
• Expand Coverage for Burn Pit and Toxic Exposure Victims: 
  • Push for full implementation of legislation addressing long-term health effects of toxic exposures during military service.
• Protect Disability Benefits:
  • Ensure disability ratings and compensation are not diminished for veterans relying on these benefits for their livelihoods.
     

My Commitment

As the spouse of a combat veteran, I have witnessed the dedication and sacrifices of our service members and their families. These proposals are not just ideas—they are a reflection of what I believe is possible when we put veterans and their families at the forefront of our policies. As your representative, I will fight tirelessly to turn these proposals into meaningful action, ensuring every veteran receives the care and support they deserve.