The dedicated service of America's active military and veterans has left an indelible and multi-generational impact on our society, significantly shaping our nation's development, values, overall well-being, and quality of life. Sustaining a robust military force and veterans' community is essential for America's continuous ability to preserve global peace, maintain international stability, foster economic prosperity, and protect human rights.
Beyond their military service, many veterans continue to serve our communities, seamlessly transitioning into roles as volunteers and leaders. Armed with strong work ethics, discipline, unique skills, and a profound sense of mission, they contribute significantly to the civilian workforce, often finding themselves at the forefront as first responders in law enforcement and public safety.
The challenges faced by veterans are numerous, spanning mental health issues, physical health concerns, post-service employment, continuing education, housing, and legal matters. Addressing these challenges is paramount in promoting their overall well-being and facilitating a successful transition to civilian life.
VA Advanced Medical Facility in Southern Delaware
Veterans residing in Kent and Sussex counties in Delaware urgently need accessible, advanced medical care services tailored to their unique health challenges, including cancers, mental health issues, and service-related disabilities. Currently, the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs is falling short of its mission to provide these critical services to veterans in Southern Delaware.
The only advanced care VA medical facility in Delaware is located in Wilmington, creating a significant barrier for veterans in the southern part of the state. As Delaware's next United States Senator, Dr. Katz will begin to resolve this critical issue within his first ninety days of taking office.
Key Positions
- Establish a new VA advanced medical center in Southern Delaware within his first 90 days
- Ensure the facility provides specialized cancer treatment, mental health services, and disability management
- Partner with federal, state, and Maryland regional agencies to maximize resources and reach
- Address the full spectrum of veteran needs: healthcare, employment, housing, and transition support
- Honor veterans' continued service as first responders and community leaders
Delaware has a significant veteran population, with particular concentration in Kent and Sussex counties, and those veterans are underserved. The only advanced VA medical facility in the state is in Wilmington, leaving southern Delaware veterans driving hours each way for cancer treatment, mental health care, and disability services. Delaware veterans returning from service face real housing affordability challenges, with home prices up 53% in five years. And far too many Delaware veterans have fallen through the cracks on mental health. The suicide rate among veterans nationally remains more than twice that of non-veterans. Federal decisions about VA facility placement, healthcare funding, mental health resources, and transition support directly determine what Delaware veterans receive. This is not abstract policy. For thousands of Delaware families, it is personal.
Dr. Katz has made the VA gap in southern Delaware one of his most specific and concrete commitments: establish a new advanced care facility serving Kent and Sussex counties within his first 90 days in office. That is not a campaign slogan. It is a defined, achievable first-term deliverable rooted in his understanding of healthcare delivery and his knowledge of Delaware geography. As a physician, he understands the clinical needs of veterans dealing with service-related cancers, PTSD, and traumatic brain injury. As someone who has managed healthcare facilities, he knows what it takes to make a new facility operational. He will fight for Delaware's veterans not because it polls well, but because the obligation is real.