WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-HI), Chairman of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, commented today on a new VA Inspector General (IG) report into an email sent by a VA psychologist last year that appeared to discourage health care staff from diagnosing veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).  The IG investigation, requested by Akaka and released today, found that while the email was poorly written and inappropriate, it did not result in a change in diagnoses at that VA facility. 

"I appreciate the IG's investigation into this matter.  It is fortunate that the actions of a single health professional did not result in an artificial decline in the number of veterans diagnosed with PTSD.  I remain concerned that VA's health care system is overburdened and underfunded as the needs of veterans grow greater and more complicated.  I will continue to work towards making VA funding more timely, predictable, and robust," Akaka said.  

Chairman Akaka requested the IG's investigation when the email was brought to light last year.  He held a hearing on systemic indifference to invisible wounds on June 4, 2008.

The VA IG report is available here.

-END-

January, 2009