Earlier this year when they met in Rochester, Congressman Walz told the state convention of Disabled American Veterans he would be introducing veterans pain care legislation.
We just received this press release about the bill being introduced in the House:
WALZ INTRODUCES VETERANS PAIN CARE LEGISLATION
"We must ensure our disabled veterans can enjoy the highest quality of life possible after military service" says Walz(Washington, DC) - Today, Congressman Walz introduced the Veterans Pain Care Act of 2008 in the House of Representatives.
"Far too many men and women who have risked life and limb in defense of our country are returning home from military service with painful, life-changing combat injuries," said Walz. "We have a moral obligation to care for these disabled veterans with the most innovative pain management techniques. Doing so can help these courageous injured soldiers enjoy the highest quality of life possible."
Walz's bill would establish a comprehensive and integrated pain care initiative across the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care system. The legislation addresses concerns raised by veterans in southern Minnesota regarding the need for improved and expanded pain care services within the VA.
The legislation would also establish a VA program of research, training and education on acute and chronic pain - education both for VA health care personnel and for the veterans and their families.
Walz said the legislation, which has wide support from dozens of organizations, including the Pain Care Coalition and the American Cancer Society, would help address an oversight at the VA. "Improving pain management is a crucial part of improving military and veteran health care," said Walz. "This bill will build on the work the VA is already doing and require the VA to develop a more comprehensive approach to pain care management. We've got to make sure that the VA is addressing the needs of veterans who suffer from acute and chronic pain."
Acute and chronic pain afflicts many veterans as well as active duty military personnel, and is a leading cause of disability among veterans.
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