Violations found at more than 100 VA vendor clinics [Video]

WASHINGTON — The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides care to more than 27,000 Veterans with spinal cord injuries and related disorders each year, making the department the largest healthcare system in the world providing lifelong spinal cord care.

But it’s not always easy.

When a veteran files a claim for disability benefits, a medical exam may be necessary. If the nearest VA medical center cannot conduct the exam, a contract exam vendor is utilized.

“We did identify deficiencies at 113 of the 135 facilities we visited. Those deficiencies created needless burden and safety concerns for patients with mobility issues and those with spinal cord injuries and disorders,” said Steve Bracci, VA OIG Director of Benefits Inspections, testifying Thursday before the House Veterans Affairs Committee.

Committee members made it clear they were not happy.

“A recent VA Inspector General report showed that a large number …