To the Point
Whistleblowers, Cover-ups and Death at the VA
Eight million Americans qualify for VA healthcare, and they're apparently satisfied. But it takes so long that 40 have allegedly died while waiting for appointments.
By Warren Olney • • 51m ListenSome eight million Americans qualify for Veterans Administration health care, and they're apparently satisfied — when they can get it. But it takes so long that 40 or more have allegedly died while waiting for their appointments. The American Legion says VA Secretary Eric Shinseki ought to resign. We hear about an ongoing scandal. Also, Ben Sasse's Nebraska win and the Establishment-Tea Party narrative, and the health effects of child labor in America's tobacco fields.
Banner image VA Secretary Eric Shinseki, greets Sgt. Joel Tavera, during a visit to Brooke Army Medical Center, July 19, 2010. Photo by Chondra Perry, Brooke Army Medical Center Public Affairs
In this episode
3 storiesSasse's NC Primary Win and the Establishment-Tea Party Narrative
The division between the Republican Establishment and the Tea Party appears to be getting smaller and smaller. Two years ago, so-called "Tea Party extremists" beat moderates in GOP primaries and went on to defeat by Democrats. This year may be different.
Read the story8 minWhistleblowers and Cover-ups at the VA
The Veterans Administration runs America's largest healthcare system, with hospitals and clinics serving eight million people. Under the rules, veterans are supposed to get an appointment 14 to 30 days after calling for one. For years there have been reports that it takes much longer.
Read the story34 minChildren Picking Tobacco in US Exposed to Serious Health Concerns
Children are not allowed to buy cigarettes in the United States — but they are allowed to work in tobacco fields. In North Carolina, Kentucky, Tennessee and Virginia, a survey has found that they're showing symptoms of nicotine poisoning. Restrictions on child labor in the US are different for agriculture than for other industries.
Read the story9 min
