THIS IS A PRESS RELEASE FROM THE OFFICE OF OHIO CONGRESSMAN CHARLIE WILSON.

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Charlie Wilson (OH-6) released the following statement today after the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced its plans to create a new community-based outpatient clinic in Gallia County. It will be one of 44 new clinics in 21 states designed to increase the VA's health network.

"For too long our heroes have had to travel too far for basic care," Wilson said. "They deserve better than that. I understand the importance of providing our veterans with the best resources and healthcare they deserve. I am pleased that Gallia County will be receiving a new community-based outpatient clinic that will provide Ohio's veterans quality healthcare and treatment. This is exciting news for Gallia County, for veterans and for all of Ohio's Sixth Congressional District."

The VA is currently looking for a site in Gallipolis. The VA has an ambitious timeline and hopes to open the new clinic in ten months. The clinic would include primary care and mental health services. Other health services will be available including: optometry, podiatry, social work and pharmaceutical counseling. The Huntington VA Medical Center will be the parent facility. Huntington projects that the Gallipolis clinic could eventually see nearly 4,000 patients a year after its first few years of operation.