October 2, 2020 3:25 a.m.

Congressman Peter DeFazio is pushing for answers after reports of 7 new COVID-19 cases at the Roseburg VA Hospital.

A release said DeFazio has sent a letter to Roseburg VA Director Keith Allen demanding an update on safety protocols and procedures in place.

DeFazio said “The Roseburg VA is a critical health facility for veterans across southwest Oregon- they deserve every assurance that the hospital is doing everything in their power to protect their staff and patients”. He said it’s imperative that the VA is open and transparent about the protocols they have in place to contain the spread of any COVID-19 infections.

The release said DeFazio asked Director Allen to provide timely updates on the situation, asking what protocols the facility has put in place to test, screen, and protect patients and staff from further spread. DeFazio also asked if the hospital had enough personal protective equipment, testing supplies, and other medical supplies necessary to tackle the outbreak.

News Radio 1240 KQEN will have a response from the VA in a future newscast and online article.