Blue Water Navy

Michael J. Kussman, VA Under Secretary for Health, to Retire

WASHINGTON (April 7, 2009) - Dr. Michael J. Kussman, the Under Secretary for Health for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), today announced his intention to retire from federal service by May 9, ending a 37-year government career. Dr. Kussman, who attained the rank of brigadier general while in the U.S. Army, has been with VA since 2000.

As Under Secretary for Health since 2007, Dr. Kussman has directed a health care system with an annual budget of approximately $40.2 billion, overseeing the delivery of care to more than 5.6 million Veterans. VA, the nation's largest health care system, employs more than 231,000 health care professionals and support staff at more than 1,400 sites of care, including hospitals; community and facility-based clinics; nursing homes; domiciliaries; readjustment counseling centers, and various other facilities.

"I've appreciated the tremendous opportunity VA has given me to continue to serve those with whom I served while in uniform," said Kussman. "VA has a reputation for providing 'the best care anywhere,' and I hope I have helped to enhance that reputation."

Isn't it amazing what a few trips to a Congressional Hot Seat will do for your career? Wanna bet Katz is next?

One down, Dunne to go.....