Congressman Hamadeh Urges Secretary Doug Collins to Implement Veterans Community Care Program Audit Findings

Congressman Abe Hamadeh (AZ-08) joined Congressman Paul Gosar (AZ-09) in urging Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins to implement recommendations from a recent Office of Inspector General (OIG) audit identifying significant deficiencies in the Veterans Community Care Program (VCCP). Congressman Gosar urged Secretary Collins and Acting Undersecretary Figueroa to take action in a letter following the OIG's Audit of Veterans' Community Care Eligibility Determinations, which found widespread failures in the Department of Veterans Affairs' administration of the program. The audit revealed that nearly one in four veterans referred to community care did not meet eligibility requirements, while millions of veterans receiving care through the VA lacked proper documentation showing they had been evaluated for community care or had voluntarily declined that option. The OIG estimated that more than $440 million in unnecessary spending occurred during the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2025 alone due to inaccurate eligibility determinations. An amount that could total $1.7 billion annually if left unaddressed. “The findings of the audit show that not only are we wasting money, but we are depriving our veterans of the care they so rightfully deserve” stated Congressman Hamadeh. “I have faith that the administration will take the appropriate action to ensure that the recommendations are implemented and quality care is delivered when needed by our veterans.” The letter encourages Secretary Collins to work with Congress to fully implement the OIG's recommendations, improve accountability, and ensure the Veterans Community Care Program is administered with the diligence and integrity America's veterans deserve.