Rick Scott 'Appalled' Over Secret Waiting List at VA Hospital

Gov. Rick Scott released a statement Friday regarding the news that three employees from Gainesville's Malcom Randall VA Medical Center were placed on administrative leave after thefederal inspector general discovered asecret waiting list containing 219 patients.

I am appalled to learn that Floridas brave veterans have been unnecessarily forced to wait for care they deserve to have provided timely," said Scott. "The discovery of a secret waiting list further heightens my concerns about the federal VA hospital system and how it is failing Floridas veterans. Given this news, I am asking the Agency for Health Care Administrations inspectors to attempt a revisit at the VA hospital in Gainesville.

Earlier this week, I called for an independent, thorough analysis and I renew that call today. The VA has repeatedly denied Floridas experienced hospital inspectors, and the Freedom of Information Act request for documentation has yet to be acknowledged. I will continue to focus a light on concerns at the VA until they are willing to be transparent. I have met a lot of public servants that work in VA hospitals who care about our heroes, but we must continue to call for accountability from their leadership. The men and women who have fought to defend our country and our freedom deserve more from the VA system.

On April 14, the Agency for Health Care Administrations inspectors attempted to visit the same VA hospital but were unable to review any documents