June 25th 2023.
VA released new data that shows a stark difference between acceptance rates of Black and white veterans when they apply for physical and mental health benefits. Black veterans are accepted at a lower rate than white veterans - 84.8% for Black veterans and 89.4% for white veterans.
NBC News reported that the proportions should be higher for Black veterans, who apply for benefits at a greater rate. To address this issue, VA Secretary Denis McDonough created the I*DEA Council, an Agency Equity team to uncover the causes of this disparity. McDonough expressed his commitment to serve all veterans, their families, caregivers, and survivors, and emphasized the team's mission to identify and eliminate any disparities in VA health care and benefits.
The I*DEA Council is currently developing a plan of action to evaluate the data and pinpoint the issues that prevent veterans from receiving their full benefits. With this team in place, veterans from underserved populations can have faith that the VA will provide the support and care they deserve. VA press secretary Terry Hayes also reinforced this message, saying that their goal is to ensure that any veteran who comes to the department and files a claim receives equal treatment.
The VA and its agency equity team are working to build awareness and trust within the veteran community and to ensure that all veterans are treated fairly. Their mission is to provide true support to veterans, especially those from marginalized groups.
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