One congressman from North Carolina has highlighted a lack of funding for long-term residential care for veterans with severe traumatic brain injuries. This issue has been brought to light amidst concerns that these veterans are not receiving the necessary support and resources they need. The funding shortage has become a pressing concern that needs to be addressed to ensure our veterans receive the care they deserve.
According to Rep. Dr. Greg Murphy, a Republican from North Carolina, the Veterans Affairs department has been facing difficulties in meeting the needs of veterans and adequately managing their health conditions.
In a letter addressed to his constituents, Murphy stated that he is currently focused on obtaining the necessary resources to finance the provision of long-term residential care for veterans who suffer from severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
To gather responses on ways to enhance the VA’s care for veterans with brain injuries, Murphy initiated a survey.
Murphy, who is a practicing urologist, is running for his fourth term in the 3rd Congressional District this November. He is a valued member of the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and is a part of its Health Subcommittee. Additionally, he holds committee assignments on the House Administration, specifically the Oversight Subcommittee, as well as the Ways and Means committee, where he serves on two subcommittees, Health and Trade. Furthermore, he is a part of the Joint Committee on Printing.
The VA defines traumatic brain injuries as injuries that affect the head and disrupt the normal functioning of the brain.
According to the agency, it is common for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans to be exposed to explosions, and as a result, they administer a screening process.
From 2001 to 2021, the United States had stationed its troops in Afghanistan, while its deployment in Iraq had lasted from 2003 to 2011.
The VA encourages veterans to undergo screening if they were near a blast or explosion, sustained a fragment or bullet wound above the shoulder, experienced a head injury, were in a vehicle accident or crash, or suffered a fall.
According to the VA, individuals may experience various symptoms immediately following an incident, including dizziness, confusion, seeing stars, and a loss of consciousness or feeling knocked out, with no memory of the event. As time progresses, symptoms may persist and include headaches or neck pain, sensitivity to light or noise, blurred vision, balance issues, fatigue, and a ringing in the ears. In addition, those affected may experience chronic depression, anxiety, apathy, slowness in thinking, speaking and reading, and difficulties with concentration or organizing daily tasks.
This year, Murphy has been collaborating with Representatives Deborah Ross and Don Davis, both Democrats from North Carolina, on various bipartisan initiatives for the benefit of veterans. One of their legislative efforts is focused on Camp Lejeune, while another is geared towards heroin overdose prevention.