In a recent meeting of the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) expressed her concerns regarding the specific needs of veterans in Alaska.
Senator Murkowski welcomed Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins to discuss the Department of Veterans Affairs’ Fiscal Year 2026 budget request, emphasizing the challenges faced by the state’s rural veterans.
Murkowski began her remarks by highlighting Alaska’s unique position in the national context, stating, “we’re bigger, we’re badder, we’re just more complicated.” This sentiment conveys the deep pride Alaskans hold for their high veteran population, as the state hosts more veterans per capita than any other in the country.
She noted the significant hurdles in reaching out to rural veterans, many of whom live in remote areas where standard transportation options are not viable.
Murkowski explained that the primary mode of transportation for these veterans often involves flying due to the long distances involved, making access to care particularly complicated.
Additionally, she pointed out the limitations in telehealth services stemming from inadequate broadband coverage, as well as shortages of local healthcare providers, underscoring the importance of ensuring all veterans receive the healthcare services they have earned.
Senator Murkowski, in conjunction with Senator Collins, expressed interest in exploring innovative solutions to improve healthcare outreach to rural veterans.
“I have talked about establishing an outreach program that would send teams to rural areas that are off the road system to just kind of let them know about their benefits, about the services that are made available,” she said, advocating for increased awareness of VA offerings among veterans.
Collins responded affirmatively, expressing his intent to explore new models of healthcare delivery in rural areas, saying, “I want us to break out of the model that everything has to be the way we’ve always done it.”
He shared that recent challenges, including the closure of an ambulatory clinic in Los Angeles, had underscored the need for flexible solutions that do not force veterans to adapt to an outdated healthcare model.
Murkowski added that some non-profit organizations have started mobile services, such as mammography units that travel to remote locations, providing essential screenings for women who wouldn’t otherwise have access to such care.
She commended Collins for his openness to innovative strategies, noting, “you do have to be willing to think outside the box a little bit, and I appreciate that you’re looking into that.”
The conversation then shifted towards the pivotal role of Tribal health services in Alaska, as Murkowski expressed satisfaction with the recent agreement between the Indian Health Service (IHS) and the VA for reimbursement.
This agreement is a significant step in addressing the unique challenges faced by veterans who are also Alaska Natives.
She sought clarity on the future of the VA’s Office of Tribal Government Relations, a critical entity designed to ensure the voices of Native veterans are heard in VA policy discussions.
Murkowski inquired, “I would like to know if you think that government relations office will continue.”
In addition, she asked for an update on the VA Advisory Committee on Tribal and Indian Affairs, emphasizing its importance in shaping culturally competent care and strengthening Tribal consultation.
Collins assured her that both the Office of Tribal Government Relations and the advisory committee would continue their work without interruption, highlighting ongoing efforts to increase outreach to Native tribes and communities.
“Yes, to both, they’re both going to be continuing and also, we’re continuing to outreach as well,” Collins affirmed.
He noted the importance of intergovernmental collaboration and the necessity of bringing a comprehensive approach to veteran services, saying that VA outreach teams and resources are vital for addressing disparities faced by veterans in rural areas, including Alaska.
As the meeting proceeded, Murkowski made it clear that she would be submitting additional questions for the record, focusing on the roof of the Palmer Pioneer Home and the rollout of the electronic health record system in Alaska.
She pointed out the anxiety surrounding the upcoming implementation in 2026, alluding to previous difficulties faced during earlier system rollouts.
Secretary Collins acknowledged the significance of the electronic records system and expressed his willingness to engage in discussions regarding the transition process moving forward.
The hearing concluded with both officials reaffirming their commitment to ensuring comprehensive, accessible care for Alaska’s veterans, as Senator Murkowski continues to advocate for their specific needs and challenges within the VA system.
image source from：murkowski
