Congressman Blumenauer visits Portland VA Medical Center

Congressman Blumenauer visited the Portland VA Medical Center to meet with the newly appointed Director, John Patrick. Director Patrick will oversee the Medical Center’s 2,845 employees, who serve the medical needs of veterans from all over the state of Oregon as well as some from Washington, Idaho, and even California.

The Medical Center is both a teaching and research hospital and has developed many innovative programs in response to the wide range of needs of the regions’ veterans. One of the newest programs is the Women Veteran’s Health Clinic, scheduled to open formally in September.

Congressman Blumenauer spoke with Director Patrick about the needs and challenges of his new position and how they can work together to make the Medical Center as successful it can possibly be. He also made a quick tour and met with staff in charge of significant programs at the hospital.