Cramer Discusses Strengthening Access to Care for Veterans, Seniors with VA Secretary Collins

Secretary Collins Commits to Visiting Fargo

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WASHINGTON, D.C. - Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins testified before the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee (SVAC) and outlined the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 budget request and plans to improve care and services for veterans nationwide. In his testimony, Secretary Collins said the VA's FY27 budget request totals more than $480 billion in resources, emphasizing "each investment is tied to a concrete improvement Veterans will notice: shorter waits, better coordination, and more consistent access to both VA and community care."

During the hearing, U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) questioned Secretary Collins on his commitment to ensuring the proposed budget would translate into prioritizing American-made healthcare products and improving healthcare access for veterans.

As an advocate for making healthcare more accessible and patient-centered, Cramer has dedicated considerable time to ensuring access to long-term care services for veterans and seniors. Cramer has worked with members of SVAC, as well as Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz, on streamlining regulations and requirements, which impede the department's ability to serve patients and veterans. He recently received the North Dakota Long Term Care Association's Distinguished Service Award in recognition of his dedication, leadership, and service in support of long-term care across the state.

Cramer reiterated his appreciation for the VA's efforts to modernize its reimbursement system, but expressed concern about unintended consequences, such as the potential for reduced access. He asked Secretary Collins whether he would review this payment change to ensure veterans are not losing access to their local long-term care facility.

Secretary Collins said he will look into the recent updates.

"Senator, we'd be happy to," added Secretary Collins. "We're going to look into this. […] Look, long-term healthcare, whether it's inside our own facilities or with community is something that this country has to look at."

"There's no question about that, and I appreciate that," said Cramer. "And that's why I appreciate the modernization effort of the system. I just see this as a possible challenge going forward and if we look into it sooner rather than later and [determine] if it needs to be tweaked."

President Trump recently reiterated his conviction to Made in America policies and ensuring the federal government prioritizes American-made products whenever feasible. Cramer asked Secretary Collins about the VA's prioritization of domestic manufacturers in procuring medical equipment. Secretary Collins said the VA is following direction from the White House to make sure the department is securing America's supply chain, especially from the drug and equipment perspective.

"We're committed to making that happen in the areas that we can," answered Secretary Collins.

"I appreciated our visit yesterday in my office very much and was encouraged by you bringing up the possibility of coming to North Dakota," said Cramer. "We actually have a ventilator company that manufactures ventilators right in Fargo. So, when we're there visiting the hospital, perhaps you could come see what CorVent Medical is doing."

"I appreciate that, Senator," concluded Secretary Collins. "It's always good to visit with you, my former colleague in the House."