/ Modified apr 28, 2014 10:12 a.m.

Obama Gets Involved with PHX VA Negligence Allegations

President says the U.S. will get to the bottom of whether veterans were denied help they needed, causing the death of up to 40.

President Barack Obama says the U.S. will get to the bottom of whether veterans were denied help they needed at a VA hospital in Arizona.

Obama said he immediately ordered Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki to investigate following allegations that up to 40 Arizona veterans died while awaiting medical appointments at the Phoenix VA Health Care Center.

Obama said he takes the allegations, quote, "very seriously." He said an inspector general is also investigating.

Obama says he wants to ensure not a single U.S. veteran lacks the help they need. He said he's increased the VA's budget more than any other agency in his government.

Obama spoke at a news conference in Manila while traveling in the Philippines.

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