Central Louisiana News

U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy and John Kennedy have expressed their concerns over the Overton Brooks Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center in Shreveport, Louisiana, following a report by the Office of Inspector General (OIG). The report revealed that the facility failed to adhere to suicide prevention protocols, which resulted in both a suicide and an attempted suicide.

In their communication, the senators stated, “Due to the tragic death of a veteran from suicide, we write to express our concern regarding recent revelations of the inadequate suicide prevention policies and practices at the Overton Brooks Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center in Shreveport, Louisiana.”

The senators emphasized the necessity for immediate action: “It is imperative that the Overton Brooks VA Medical Center take decisive action and implement the OIG’s recommendations without delay.”

Senator Cassidy has previously addressed issues concerning VA's adherence to suicide prevention protocols. Last year, he questioned Matthew Miller, Executive Director for Suicide Prevention at VA, after another OIG report found mishandling in a 2021 veteran suicide case. The same report indicated interference by VA employees with the OIG investigation.

The Senate had unanimously passed Cassidy’s Solid Start Act in a previous Congress session. This act aims to strengthen the VA Solid Start program by ensuring veterans are contacted three times within their first year after leaving active duty. The program seeks to connect veterans with various VA programs and benefits, including mental health resources.

The senators' letter highlighted systemic noncompliance by staff at Overton Brooks with Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Suicide Prevention Program policies. They underscored that veterans are more vulnerable to suicide risks compared to the general population. These deficiencies demand urgent reforms within the facility.

They concluded their message by stating: "The well-being of our veterans is a national priority, and it is our responsibility to ensure they receive the care and support they deserve through a medical system that was designed to help them."