As Trump-Era VA Cuts Loom, Nurses and Lawmakers Fight to Protect Veteran Health Services

Nurses and union advocates are increasingly raising concerns regarding potential staffing reductions and policy alterations within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. They caution that these changes could severely affect the nation’s veterans.

At the Durham VA Medical Center, nurse and patient Mildred Manning-Joy experienced a 45-minute wait for a prescription, during which she witnessed a single staff member attempting to handle a busy line of patients. “That request is excessively demanding,” she stated.

Manning-Joy, a 25-year veteran nurse with the VA and a member of National Nurses United (NNU), participated in a virtual briefing this week alongside fellow nurses and Representative Mark Takano (D-Calif.). The group strongly opposed the proposed staff reductions and limitations on union rights. Concerns have been raised regarding an executive order former President Donald Trump issued that limits federal collective bargaining. Additionally, a proposal from VA Secretary Doug Collins aims to reduce the department's workforce by up to 83,000 employees.

Manning-Joy expressed concern, stating, “These cuts are really scary.” Concerns have been raised regarding the treatment of veteran patients who depend on specialized care exclusively offered by VA facilities. Critics argue that the current system is unjust to these individuals.

In a significant move, Takano has introduced legislation that has garnered the support of 81 Democratic co-sponsors. The legislation aims to reinstate collective bargaining rights for employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs. None of North Carolina's congressional delegation members has expressed their support. Takano warned that the administration's strategy appears to marginalize workers or stifle their voices. “There is an understanding that strength lies in numbers,” he stated.

Nurses on the call reported feeling overwhelmed due to staffing shortages. They often faced the difficult decision of prioritizing tasks such as filling prescriptions over providing direct patient care. Concerns have been raised regarding the potential for extended hospital stays, an increase in medical errors, and a deterioration in the availability of mental health care services.

“Our nurses are dedicated to their work,” stated Monica Coleman, a nurse from Illinois. “However, it is clear that departing would adversely affect our patients.”

The suggested reductions arrive amid a rising demand for veteran services, a trend attributed to the PACT Act, which broadened healthcare access for individuals exposed to toxic substances. Advocates warn that without prompt intervention, veterans will bear the consequences.