Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals are grappling with a severe staffing crisis, having lost over 600 doctors and approximately 1,900 nurses in 2025, a trend that has persisted since the Trump administration took office.

This staffing shortage has raised significant concerns among retirees and veterans regarding the quality of care, with reports indicating increased delays and lost medical records.

As of July 2025, the average wait time for outpatient surgery appointments for new patients reached 41 days, surpassing the VA's target by 13 days.

Low morale among existing staff has been reported, further complicating recruitment efforts and contributing to delays in care.

Specific facilities, such as the Togus VA Medical Center in Maine, are experiencing appointment waits of up to two months for primary care, causing distress among veterans and their families.

Despite assurances from VA Secretary Doug Collins that front-line healthcare staff would not face layoffs, the ongoing staff losses have resulted in longer appointment wait times for veterans.

The national vacancy rate for doctors within the VA stands at 13.7%, indicating ongoing recruitment challenges that are exacerbating the staffing crisis.

Internal documents reveal that nearly 40% of doctors offered positions at VA hospitals from January to March 2025 declined, a significant increase compared to the previous year.

Senator Richard Blumenthal has voiced concerns about the adverse effects of staffing cuts, highlighting a toxic work environment that drives professionals away from the VA.

The Trump administration has significantly reduced retention and recruitment bonuses for VA staff, raising concerns about potential motives for privatization and further worsening staffing issues.

In March 2025, the VA announced plans to cut at least 70,000 jobs, later revising this figure to 30,000 by September 30, 2025, due to voluntary departures reducing the need for mass layoffs.

While the VA claims that care has not been compromised despite staffing challenges, internal records suggest a troubling decline in both staffing levels and patient care.