Who will take the blame for dithering on Zika?, and other letters

Thank you for your recent editorial headlined “Stop dithering on Zika.” I am specifically concerned that your message about President Barack Obama's attempt to get more funding has not been told everywhere in the news media. He was likely asking for the funding based on sound advice from his many advisers. I agree that politics brought us here and that the poison pills attached spoiled the initial funding request. However, who will accept the blame for what is potentially taking place in the country, babies with microcephaly, etc., that might have been avoided?

Dr. Melvin T. Pinn Jr.

Regarding the story “VA proposal to expand scope of nurse practice could ease shortage," I believe it is very important that we give the men and women who fought for our country the access to healthcare they deserve. Nurse practitioners are well-trained individuals who can help address these healthcare shortages in the Veterans Affairs system. Nurse practitioners, through their specialized training, stand ready to provide quality, cost-effective healthcare to address the rising need for primary-care providers and decrease healthcare disparities across this nation. Many state regulations prevent these practitioners from using their professional skills to help fill the gaps within our healthcare system. I believe that the VA proposal is the first step in recognizing these practitioners' ability to help provide care for vulnerable populations.

Jessica Maffett

Regarding the Aug. 22 cover story, how could you list the 100 Most Influential People in Healthcare without including Hillary Clinton? The woman who most likely will be the next president of the United States is more influential than the majority of the people who made your list. This certainly includes Paul Ryan and Bernie Sanders.

Val Schott