Photo: jetcityimage / iStock Editorial / Getty Images
Schenectady veterans are voicing concern after learning the local Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) clinic is scheduled to close on Thursday, August 28, raising fears about lost care and longer travel times. Many of the more than 1,500 veterans served by the clinic said they were notified only through a letter sent around Monday, March 10, which left many questions unanswered.
According to a report from NEWS10, veterans like Eddie Mosso and Charles Farnum described the clinic as a trusted source of healthcare, especially for those with ongoing relationships with providers since as far back as 1998. Mosso said, "If you really want to take care of us, then take care of us. Do whatever it takes. Keep the system going." Farnum added, "They have good quality care here, mental health care. It's just a great facility, great people. And we'd hate to see it go."
The VA has stated that if the Schenectady clinic closes, patients will be redirected to other clinics in Albany, Clifton Park, Fonda, or Oneonta. However, many veterans worry that increased travel distances will lead to delayed appointments and greater anxiety, especially for those with mental health needs like PTSD. Emory Luck, a Marine Corps veteran, noted, "My appointments will be farther out and stuff because there's a higher volume in Albany. And I know quite a few of my friends that go there and sometimes it's months before they can get in."
Local officials have taken action to oppose the closure. Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara has called on the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to reconsider the decision, warning that reduced access could create "unnecessary hardship across the Capital Region." In letters sent to VA leadership and Congress, Santabarbara urged that veterans "should not have to fight for access to the care they deserve," according to CBS 6 Albany.
While the VA points to expanded services at nearby facilities, veterans and advocates say longer travel and fewer options will increase stress and could result in missed appointments. Discussions and advocacy efforts are ongoing as the closure date approaches. If the decision is not overturned, the Schenectady VA clinic will close on Thursday, August 28.