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Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand are advocating for the Veterans Affairs (VA) clinic in Rotterdam, Schenectady County, to remain operational. The Department of Veterans Affairs plans to close the clinic on Altamont Avenue by August, shifting services to clinics in Clifton Park, Albany, and Fonda. The Rotterdam clinic serves over 1,500 veterans, making it a crucial healthcare hub.
The VA announced the closure as part of an effort to expand services at other locations. According to NEWS10, more than 80% of the clinic's patients live closer to the Clifton Park facility. However, local lawmakers, including Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara and State Senator Jim Tedisco, argue that the decision should involve the veterans it affects. They emphasize the challenges veterans face, such as transportation issues in rural areas.
Santabarbara, a veteran himself, believes that community discussions are necessary before making such decisions. He stated to CBS6 that the closure would create barriers for veterans, leading to longer travel times and potentially missed appointments. He has reached out to the VA for a reconsideration of the decision.
The VA has assured that it will increase staffing and resources at the Clifton Park location, including adding two Patient Aligned Care Teams and more resources for women veterans. Despite these assurances, lawmakers continue to push for the Rotterdam clinic to remain open, at least temporarily, while they appeal to federal leaders. They urge community members to write to their representatives to show support for the clinic's continued operation.