Yesterday (Monday), Iowa Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) voicing concerns and seeking more information after a news report revealed dangerous hiring practices at VA hospitals, include the Iowa City VA. “It should go without saying that physicians hired by the VA should be fit to practice and have a track record of providing quality care,” the Senators wrote. “However, a disturbing report in USA today found that the VA has knowingly hired providers who have a history of providing substandard care.” One of those physicians was identified as being hired by the Iowa City VA this past April, even though the neurosurgeon had a dozen malpractice claims in two states and had his license revoked in another. Not only are they seeking answers, the two Senators also want to know what actions will be taken with providers who have been illegally hired.
