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Congressman Van Drew Wants Answers on Veterans Affairs Rules that Ultimately Lead to Constituent’s Death

Contact: Scott Weldon (202)225-6572

Washington, DC, February 21, 2020

On January 30th Congressman Jeff Van Drew sent a letter to the President of the United States asking for assistance and answers from the local Veterans Affairs branch on a situation that ultimately lead to one of his constituent's, Gerald Keenan, passing away. In the letter Congressman Van Drew requested three issues to be addressed:

  •        A change to the current 100 mile radius to schedule Compensation and Pension Exams.
  •        A physical VBA presence in South New Jersey.
  •        A review of the current process for accepted medical documentation for compensation claims.

“Gerald Keenan served his country with honor and distinction. It is unconscionable that we would have rules in place that would place burdens on older veterans. I am asking the President and the VA for a thorough review of this case, and asking for answers on how this situation could happen.” said Congressman Van Drew. “We deserve to treat our veterans better than this, and unfortunately the system failed Gerald. We must do better.”

Background: Gerald Keenan, 86 years old, had to travel significant distance for an audiology exam as part of his application for VA benefits. Mr. Keenan’s spouse made numerous attempts to move the appointment closer to due to Mr. Keenan’s health. On November 18th of 2019 Mrs. Keenan was contacted with locations in Cherry Hill and Egg Harbor, which were all closer, but did not meet the 7-day contractual limit to schedule the exam.

On November 20th of 2019 Mr. Keenan received a notice saying his initial appointment was rescheduled; the date and time of the appointment stayed the same time and the location was in Philadelphia, a trip that would include a significant travel time. The appointment was again rescheduled for December 10th 2019 in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, which would also include significant travel time to attend the meeting. When Mr. Keenan arrived in Cherry Hill for his appointment, he fell in the parking lot and fractured two ribs. He was placed in the ICU at Cooper Medical Center and succumbed to his injuries two weeks later.

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