Similarly, the VA frequently issues zero percent ratings; I personally have three of those.
Even more troubling is Hegseths bias against veterans seeking care.
Studies have consistently shown that the VAoutperforms the private sectorin quality of care, patient satisfaction, and cost-effectiveness.
Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to be secretary of defense, at the U.S. Capitol on Dec. 10, 2024.Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images
The VA isnt just a health care provider for veterans its a cornerstone of the nations emergency response infrastructure.
This support wasnt limited to equipment.
For Republicans, this is an existential threat to their anti-government ideology.
Privatization wouldnt just harm veterans; it would also strip the nation of a critical tool for emergency preparedness.
Privatizing the VA would mean transferring veterans care to a system driven by profit rather than outcomes.
Private providers lack the expertise to handle conditions like toxic exposures, combat-related trauma, and complex prosthetics.
Moreover, the private sectors profit motives often lead to care denial, not care delivery.
The VAs Fourth Mission underscores the dangers of dismantling this system.
Veterans overwhelmingly value the VA for its specialized care and community support.
