Veterans Clinic in Maxwelton closed again
By David Esteppe
Air quality issues previously addressed have resurfaced at the Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC). The facility had reopened this past Feb. 27 after the HVAC system had been repaired to address the issue.
Beckley VA Medical Center director Karin L McGraw announced late Monday that the facility which serves over 1,700 veterans will remain closed indefinitely. While the CBOC remains closed, Veterans previously reimbursed for mileage to and from CBOC, will now be reimbursed for travel to the Beckley facility. Veterans will be notified of the reassignments of their appointments. The CBOCC staff is currently at the Beckley VA Medical Center and can field questions at 304-255-2121.
McGraw states that the safety and health of the veterans, their families and the staff remain the concern after employee complaints led to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) having been called in and finding formaldehyde levels at .017 parts per million in areas within the clinic. The acceptable level of formaldehyde, a chemical found in furniture and building products, is .016 parts per million.
If you have no transportation to medical appointments at the Beckley VA Medical Center, the DAV provides free transportation to all eligible veterans. Call the DAV (Disabled American Veterans) Coordinator Al Koger at (H) 304-497-2345 or (C) 304-667-1309 for more information.