The Senate resolution urges the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to establish an inpatient hospital facility at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in New Jersey. It highlights the commitment owed to veterans for their sacrifices and the need to meet their healthcare needs, particularly for the 338,012 veterans residing in New Jersey, with a significant number living in southern counties. Currently, veterans in this region face long travel times to access inpatient care, as there are no federal VA facilities available nearby, forcing them to journey to facilities in northern New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York, and Delaware.
The resolution emphasizes that Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst is an ideal location for such a facility, as it would significantly reduce travel distances for veterans seeking care. The base already offers various services to veterans, making it a convenient option for healthcare access. By establishing an inpatient hospital facility at this location, the resolution aims to ensure that the healthcare needs of southern New Jersey veterans are met efficiently, thereby honoring the nation's promise to provide adequate healthcare services to those who have served in the Armed Forces.