The US Department of Veterans Affairs is preparing plans that could lead to the elimination of tens of thousands of health care positions, a move officials describe as a broad restructuring rather than a sudden withdrawal of services.

The proposal, which has emerged amid internal budget planning and workforce reviews, reflects a reassessment of staffing levels that expanded rapidly during the COVID-nineteen pandemic.

According to senior officials familiar with the process, the department is evaluating roles across its vast Veterans Health Administration network, with a focus on positions deemed non-essential or duplicative.

The VA has said the objective is to align staffing more closely with current patient demand while preserving frontline care for veterans.

Leadership has emphasised that any reductions would be phased and guided by attrition, hiring freezes and internal reassignments, rather than immediate mass layoffs.

The issue has gained political attention as lawmakers and veterans’ groups seek clarity on how the changes would affect access to care.

Supporters of the restructuring argue that the VA’s workforce grew significantly during emergency conditions and now requires recalibration to ensure long-term financial sustainability.

They also contend that efficiency gains could free resources for modernisation, digital health services and improved outcomes for veterans.

The Trump administration has previously highlighted the need for accountability and operational discipline within federal agencies, including the VA, positioning reform as a means to strengthen rather than weaken veteran services.

Officials have reiterated that the department’s core mission remains unchanged and that no decisions have been finalised.

As internal reviews continue, the scale and timing of any job reductions remain under discussion, with further guidance expected once budget negotiations and workforce assessments are completed.