VA Sec claps back at ‘fake news’ critics, defends DOGE: Unveils 4th new healthcare facility

Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Doug Collins is pushing back against what he calls “fake news” surrounding the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) cuts and their impact on veterans’ care. Collins, who is also an active colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserves, announced the opening of a fourth new VA clinic in just a few months since taking office.

Despite rumors of health care and benefits cuts at the VA, Collins emphasized that the agency has been expanding its services to better serve veterans. He condemned the spread of false information and urged the public not to believe the fake news being circulated.

The VA recently opened a new clinic in Hamilton, Montana, marking the fourth clinic opening since President Trump’s inauguration. Prior to this, new clinics were established in Spotsylvania, Virginia, Aurora, Colorado, and Ridgewood, Queens, New York City. Collins reassured the public that despite efforts to reduce the VA’s workforce, there will be no cuts to services or decline in care quality.

The new clinics, including the one in Spotsylvania, are significantly larger than their predecessors, with the Montana facility being 600% larger than the previous clinic in the area. The Spotsylvania clinic is expected to be the largest of its kind in the country, serving an estimated 35,000 patients annually.

While the VA is planning to reduce its workforce by 15% through DOGE’s initiatives, Collins emphasized that there will be no compromise in service quality. He responded to concerns raised by Senator Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., stating that the VA’s services have been deemed “high risk” by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and that changes are necessary to ensure efficient resource allocation.

Despite criticism from Democrats like Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Seth Moulton, Collins defended the administration’s efforts to streamline the VA’s operations. He highlighted the need for a comprehensive review of the VA’s practices to ensure that resources are being used effectively to care for veterans.

As the VA continues to undergo restructuring, Collins emphasized that the agency’s primary focus remains on providing quality care to veterans. He noted that the recent layoffs have only affected a small percentage of the workforce and that efforts are being made to redirect funding towards patient care.

Additionally, the VA announced its decision to phase out treatment for “gender dysphoria,” a move that aligns with the administration’s priorities. The agency stated that it will no longer offer cross-sex hormone therapy to veterans with a diagnosis or history of gender dysphoria, unless they are already receiving such care.

In conclusion, Secretary Doug Collins is committed to improving the VA’s services and ensuring that veterans receive the care they deserve. Despite challenges and criticism, the VA is dedicated to upholding its mission of serving those who have served our country.