[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 183 (Thursday, December 1, 2011)]
[House]
[Page H8013]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         TEXAS VALLEY COASTAL BEND HEALTH CARE SYSTEM GOLD SEAL

  (Mr. FARENTHOLD asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute.)
  Mr. FARENTHOLD. In November, the VA outpatient clinic in Harlingen, 
Texas, earned the Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval. This award 
recognizes facilities that comply with the Joint Commission's national 
standards for health care quality and safety in ambulatory care, 
behavioral health care, and home care.
  There is no way we can adequately express our thanks to those who 
serve this country, but we must welcome them home and make sure they 
have access to the benefits and services that they have earned.
  Our servicemen and -women deserve quality health care. The Texas 
Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System has earned this distinction 
because they demonstrate a commitment to meeting the health care needs 
of all south Texas veterans.
  My staff and I are passionate about helping veterans. South Texas is 
one of the most military and veteran-friendly places in the country, 
and I will work hard to ensure that the servicemembers and families 
receive the support that they deserve.
  While south Texas is served by great outpatient facilities, we are in 
desperate need of a full-service VA hospital. I'm the cosponsor of two 
bills, H.R. 1318 and H.R. 837, that direct the VA to bring full-
service, inpatient care facilities to south Texas.

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