Washington, DC – U.S. Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., MD (R-Southwest Louisiana) today issued the following statement after reviewing an announcement from the Alexandria VA Medical Center regarding health clinics in Southwest Louisiana:

“We owe our men and women in uniform the best care available,” Boustany said. “Today’s announcement is welcome news for veterans across Acadiana and Southwest Louisiana.  Our efforts are now paying off and steady progress is being made on the Lafayette and Lake Charles clinics.  I will continue working closely with veterans groups to ensure their needs are met. As a former heart surgeon, I understand the necessity of accessible health care.”

The Department of Veterans Affairs today announced the following updates to VA clinics in Lafayette, Jennings and Lake Charles:

Lafayette – A Technical Evaluation Board (TEB) was established to review proposals received. The decision has been made and the offeror selected will be notified by June 3, 2011.

Jennings – A new three-year lease was awarded to the Jennings American Legion Hospital on April 29, 2011.

Lake Charles – Purchasing and contracting negotiations continue, with an anticipated contract expected in 30-60 days.

In recent years, Boustany has been in regular communication with Veterans Affairs officials in Louisiana, including Alexandria VA Medical Center Director Gracie Specks, to expand the facility in Lafayette and add a new clinic in Lake Charles.  Boustany has organized meetings with interested parties, sent letters to officials in support of the projects and met with officials to discuss the importance of the three clinics.

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