VA Silent on HIV Exposure Compensation

Week of July 13, 2009

An attorney for veterans potentially exposed to HIV and other infections by colonoscopies at three Department of Veterans Affairs' hospitals said his clients are waiting to hear if they will be compensated for mistakes that led to congressional hearings and new VA spending on patient safety. Nashville, Tenn.-based lawyer Mike Sheppard describes that claims process as cumbersome, particularly for veterans who tested positive for HIV and hepatitis. For more information on the continuing endoscopic procedure notification of veterans, visit the VA website.