Veterans Affairs staff were among those protesting at Denver-based VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System regarding staffing concerns, reports Westword.
The protest took place Wednesday. During the protest, VA hospital employee and American Federation of Government Employees local chapter leader Bernard Humbles contended nearly 600 positions, both administrative and clinical, remain vacant in the hospital, which is funded by the VA, according to the report. Mr. Humbles said in the report this has led to overworked staff as well as longer wait times for veterans. Mr. Humbles also argues various other VA hospitals are dealing with these issues, Westword reports.
So Mr. Humbles offered proposed solutions. One solution, according to the report, is increased federal funding and resources targeted to the issue. The report notes Mr. Humbles also mentioned his efforts with local colleges in terms of getting graduates in open jobs.
The Denver VA hospital did not immediately respond to an email from Becker's Hospital Review seeking comment. Sen. Cory Gardner, R-Colo., who has been involved with VA legislation, did not respond to Westword's request for a comment.