Dr. Gordon T. Austin Comments on Proposed Bill Designed to Offer Veterans Fertility Benefits

PHILADELPHIA, PA, October 05, 2012 (Press-News.org) Although every soldier's arrival home involves a variety of obstacles, many involve health impairments that require adequate medical attention. As many soldiers are returning from their service overseas, the public has maintained an increasing focus on providing care for those suffering from PTSD. However, a recent article from CBS News reveals another medical issue--that of infertility--that affects a number of veterans. According to the article, "More than 1,830 veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have suffered pelvic fractures and genitourinary injuries since 2003 that could affect their abilities to reproduce." A new bill currently under consideration by the U.S. Senate may expand health benefits to those seeking comprehensive in vitro fertilization (IVF) and other forms of infertility care. As a supporter of U.S. troops and veterans, Dr. Gordon T. Austin--U.S Navy Veteran--explains the importance of the proposed legislation.

According to CBS, some costs regarding fertilization are covered under current benefits outlined by the U.S. Defense Department, but the recently proposed bill sponsored by Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash) aims to authorize the VA "to cover IVF and to pay for procedures now provided for some critically injured active-duty soldiers." Although a variety of problems face returning soldiers, the article explains that the heavy amount of younger veterans has affected those wishing to begin a family after their service. Specifically, the article states, "For men, a blast to the genitalia can harm sperm-producing testicles, while a spinal cord injury can cause erectile dysfunction or ejaculatory problems. For women, shrapnel can injure the pelvis and fallopian tubes, preventing fertilization."

Reflecting on his own experiences as a veteran, Dr. Gordon T. Austin recalls the important role his family played in his service and motivation to the serve his country. Austin continues to contribute to military families through charitable organizations, such as the Freedom Alliance.

He explains that while support for military families should remain a concern, it is also important to support veterans that do not yet have families. Dr. Gordon T. Austin remains encouraged by the proposed legislation and encourages all citizens to support the bill.

Dr. Gordon T. Austin urges, "The lack of fertility care coverage is one of many issues that face wounded veterans where rules conflict with common sense. Of course we want to assist our injured heroes with returning to as normal a family life as possible. This is certainly a 'write your congressman issue,' as our elected leaders would surely get behind fixing this problem on a bipartisan basis."

ABOUT:

Dr. Gordon T. Austin is a United States Navy veteran and has proudly provided 38 years of service to his country. He currently devotes much of his time and attention to raising awareness and support for issues related to U.S. troops and veterans. In addition, Dr. Austin is a third-generation dentist who has loyally served the Carrollton, Georgia, community for 25 years, as well as an Honorable Fellow of the Georgia Dental Association and a Fellow of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the American College of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the American College of Dentists, and the International College of Dentists.