Long wait times at the Stockton Veterans Affairs (VA) clinic have sparked national action, leading to the passage of a new law aimed at improving veteran healthcare across the country. The issue gained attention after Vietnam veteran Tino Adame voiced his concerns to ABC10, highlighting delays caused by a doctor shortage.
At its peak, the Stockton VA clinic reported an average wait time of 66 days for new patients and 21 days for existing patients. Many veterans were left struggling to access essential healthcare services. In response, Congressman Josh Harder brought the issue to the House floor and worked through the House Appropriations Committee to push for change.
The result was the passage of the Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veteran’s Healthcare Improvement Act, which includes the VA Competes Act. This legislation aims to attract and retain healthcare professionals by increasing VA provider salaries, requiring annual performance evaluations, and allowing the VA Secretary to override pay caps in clinics facing prolonged shortages.
“This law isn’t just going to lower wait times in Stockton—it’s going to help veterans across the country by ensuring that the best physicians want to work at the VA,” Harder said.
The VA has responded by emphasizing its commitment to recruiting and retaining medical professionals, noting that recent hires in 2024 have already led to shorter wait times for new patients. In addition to these staffing efforts, a larger VA clinic opened in French Camp last spring to help meet demand.
With new funding, expanded facilities, and improved hiring policies, Stockton veterans may finally see the healthcare improvements they’ve long been waiting for.