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PORTLAND, Ore. – Today, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced that a joint stipulation of dismissal has been reached with Springfield, Oregon veteran Michael Williamson.
Mr. Williamson is a U.S. Air Force Veteran with a 100% disability rating due to his diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (“ALS”). The VA has contracted for Mr. Williamson’s in-home care for 19 years. Unfortunately, late last year his contracted provider abruptly submitted a 90-day notice to discontinue his care, citing safety concerns. After Mr. Williamson filed suit, the VA in coordination with the U.S. Attorney’s Office worked collaboratively with Mr. Williamson and his attorneys from Disability Rights Oregon, to find additional options for in-home providers that could meet the high level of care needed in this case.
“We are pleased to announce that the VA and Mr. Williamson have reached a joint agreement to dismiss this case,” said Billy J. Williams, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “The parties have worked hard to reach consensus on this matter. He is an honored veteran and deserving of thoughtful and attentive care.”
“I’m pleased we were able to achieve a successful outcome that honored our veteran and his family’s wishes while also providing a safe environment for his care,” said David Whitmer, Interim Medical Center Director, Roseburg VA Healthcare System. “Because of the complex care needed by an ALS patient, this took some time to negotiate and ensure a home based solution that could meet all of the requirements.”
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