POLITICS

VA Secretary, Congressman Visit Eaton Rapids For Roundtable

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Eaton Rapids, Michigan. U.S. Rep. Tom Barrett and Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins met Thursday at the Lansing VA community-based outpatient clinic and the VFW National Home for a roundtable with veterans focused on improving VA services; Collins highlighted the department's transition to a standardized electronic health record system deployed at four Michigan hospitals earlier this year. Washington and state officials cited recent VA operational milestones this week, noting the opening of 38 clinics since January 2025, a 74% reduction in the disability claims backlog, nearly 52,000 homeless veterans placed in permanent housing during fiscal year 2025 and a record $4.8 billion invested in facility repairs; Secretary Collins was questioned in June 2026 about high IBM claim denial rates and referenced a scientific review.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

2013: VA backlog exceeded 611,000 undecided claims, ~70% older than 125 days.
2024: Pandemic disruptions pushed the backlog to over 400,000 undecided claims.
January 2025 onward: VA opened 38 new health care clinics nationwide.
Fiscal Year 2025: VA invested $4.8 billion, housed nearly 52,000 homeless veterans, and reported a 74% backlog reduction.
June 2026: Secretary Collins questioned about IBM claim denials; case-by-case review and scientific panel cited; Barrett and Collins held a roundtable in Eaton Rapids.

Why This Matters to You

The VA's improvements directly affect veterans and their families. More clinics mean shorter travel times for care. The reduced claim backlog speeds up benefit decisions. If you're a veteran, check your claim status online. If you know a homeless veteran, the VA's housing program could help.

The Bottom Line

The VA is making strides, but challenges remain. High claim denial rates are under scrutiny. Keep an eye on how Secretary Collins' review impacts this issue. Worth forwarding if you know a veteran or their family.