Renovations aimed at improving long-term services for veterans at the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System will temporarily close operating rooms from November 12 to December 22. The upgrades involve replacing outdated equipment. To minimize disruption, the VASNHS administration has scheduled the work during the pre-holiday lull, typically the slowest period for routine and elective surgeries, as per a KTNV report.

Veterans like Patrick, who has served multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, have voiced frustration over the timing and communication regarding the closure. Patrick has been waiting since December 2023 for treatment of a shrapnel injury in his left shoulder. He expressed his concerns in an interview with 8 News Now, stating, "People who slip through the cracks like me have already been waiting six plus months to get to the point where you can get surgery, and know we’re being told here’s another two months."

In response to the criticism, VASNHS reaffirmed its commitment to the veteran community. Michael Kiefer, the acting executive director, stated, "VA is committed to updating and modernizing its infrastructure whenever possible to ensure we have the latest technology and equipment available to meet the needs of Veterans who seek care locally. As part of this commitment, there are times we need to make short-term adjustments to our day-to-day operations to support long range goals and outcomes. We have worked diligently to mitigate the impact to our Veterans and apologize for any inconvenience this temporary closure may cause." During the closure, the VA will expand special procedures outside the operating rooms and use this time for additional appointments and pre-surgery consultations, as reported by KTNV.

The decision to temporarily halt surgeries has left many veterans in a difficult situation, particularly those like Patrick, whose lives have been disrupted by delays in medical care. After being unable to work due to his injury since July, Patrick pointed out the broader impact of the delays. "Now you’re spending more than two months out of work. So financially, you're taking hits. You're taking hits emotionally because you’re in pain," he told 8 News Now. The medical center has apologized to those affected, stating on the VA's website, "We apologize for any inconvenience and/or miscommunication that may have occurred between our staff and any affected veterans due to the upcoming closure."

For veterans concerned about their surgeries that may have been scheduled during this planned closure, the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System advises contacting their surgical team directly to discuss available options, such as rescheduling surgeries or seeking alternative care arrangements.