Press Releases

Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA) submitted an official inquiry with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough regarding a recent incident at the West Cobb VA Clinic in Marietta, Georgia. A veteran was denied medical treatment because he refused to put on a mask. The veteran was not wearing a mask due to an existing medical condition, and was forced to leave the clinic.

Text of the inquiry:

The Honorable Denis McDonough
Secretary
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
810 Vermont Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20420

Dear Secretary McDonough,

I write to you today regarding the recent treatment of a veteran at the West Cobb VA Clinic in Marietta, Georgia. Robby Entrekin was refused treatment at the West Cobb VA Clinic after he disclosed that he could not wear a face mask due to a medical condition. As Mr. Entrekin was recording the encounter, a VA employee was seen taking his phone away without his permission. He was repeatedly told that he could not video the mistreatment, but a responding police officer confirmed that he was well within his rights to document his experience. I find it extremely concerning that the VA would refuse service to a veteran for any reason, much less for an inability to wear a mask due to a medical condition.

Please respond to the following questions as soon as possible.

1) Is it VA policy to refuse service to a veteran if the veteran is unable to wear a mask due to a medical condition?
2) How does the VA aim to assure veterans that they will not be refused medical care if they are unable to wear a mask due to a medical condition?
3) Will you commit to ensuring that Mr. Entrekin receives the medical care he is requesting?
4) Is it VA policy to restrict a veteran’s ability to video and document encounters with VA staff?

As stated by VA Press Secretary Terrence Hayes, the department is aware of this incident, so I ask that you ensure Mr. Entrekin receives immediate access to the medical care he deserves.

Sincerely,

Barry Loudermilk
Member of Congress

A link to the official inquiry can be found, HERE.