The Veterans Affairs Department says it has reduced wait times for appointments at VA health care facilities by 18% since May.
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Meanwhile, so-called choice cards began going out this week to thousands of veterans who live at least 40 miles from a VA hospital or clinic allowing them to see local doctors instead. Improved access to outside medical care is a key component of a new law intended to reduce wait times for veterans and fix longstanding problems at the agency.
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VA Secretary Robert McDonald revealed the changes Thursday as he prepares to mark 100 days in office -- just in time for Veterans Day on Tuesday. McDonald said the VA has taken a series of actions to improve services to veterans, rebuild trust and increase accountability and transparency.  (AP)
