IRAQ WAR VETS COULD GET BETTER HEALTH CARE

(07/27/2007)

Following investigative reports by national media regarding the poor treatment of veterans of the Iraq War, the US Congress is taking some action. The "Army Times" has been among the critics of the Bush administration, saying much of their response has been flag waving and empty statements. Senator Jay Rockefeller says legislation approved by the Senate yesterday will help wounded veterans make the transition from military service to civilian life. The Senate passed the legislation by unanimous consent. The bill seeks to end inconsistencies in veterans' disability pay. It also would boost severance pay and provide $50 million dollars for improved diagnosis of veterans with traumatic brain injury or post-traumatic stress disorder. Rockefeller says the legislation will go a long way toward giving wounded veterans the support they've earned and deserve. The House is considering similar measures. Following disturbing revelations about medical care provided to veterans, a presidential commission has urged broad changes to veterans' care. The nine-member panel presented a 29-page report to President Bush that recommends increasing benefits for family members helping the wounded, establishing an easy-to-use Web site for medical records and overhauling the way disability pay is awarded. A number of veteran groups has already said the measures are not enough.

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