Duval Times

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Rick Scott has taken a firm stand by leading a letter, along with Senator Marco Rubio and Congressman Brian Mast, demanding action from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) following a tragic incident at the West Palm Beach VA Medical Center that resulted in a homicide. The letter was addressed to Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough, emphasizing the need for accountability and reform within the VA system.

In the letter, the lawmakers expressed their deep concern over the systemic failures at the West Palm Beach VA Medical Center, stating, "We write to you with deep concern and sorrow regarding the systemic failures at the West Palm Beach VA Medical Center and the subsequent tragic incident on March 16, 2024."

Highlighting the urgency of the situation, the senators and representative urged Secretary McDonough to hold the management team at the facility accountable and emphasized the necessity of leadership changes to address the issues plaguing the hospital. They stated, "We urge you to take immediate action to hold Mr. Price and the management team at the West Palm Beach VA Medical Center accountable."

Furthermore, the letter requested regular updates on the progress of the investigation into the incident, remedial steps to improve the CMS rating, and measures to enhance security for the welfare of patients and staff at the West Palm Beach VA Medical Center.

Emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the well-being and dignity of the nation's veterans, the lawmakers reiterated, "The safety, well-being and dignity of our nation's veterans must always be our highest priority. We owe it to them to provide the highest quality of care and support possible. Anything less is a betrayal of the trust they have placed in us."

The letter from Senator Rick Scott, Senator Marco Rubio, and Congressman Brian Mast underscores the critical need for immediate action to address the systemic failures at the West Palm Beach VA Medical Center and ensure the protection and welfare of those who have served the nation.