Spokane VA medical center evacuated due to wildfire

The Mann-Grandstaff Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Spokane, Washington, closed on August 1 due to fast-moving wildfires that forced the evacuation of patients and staff. VA personnel evacuated an unknown number of patients to local hospitals and are currently caring for 27 patients at area shelters, according to the facility's Facebook page. The medical center sits less than a third of a mile from the fire perimeter as of Monday, and officials have stated it will remain closed with future operations to be determined.

The Mann-Grandstaff facility is a 46-bed medical center that serves as a critical hub for veterans' healthcare in the Spokane region. With more than 1,400 full-time positions including its clinics, the center provides essential administration and services for local VA outpatient clinics throughout the area, including records management, pharmacy services, and specialty care. The closure affects not only the main hospital but also Spokane-area VA outpatient clinics and business operation centers, creating a significant disruption in healthcare access for veterans who rely on these facilities for ongoing treatment and services.

The evacuation comes as part of a broader emergency response to three fires collectively known as the Spokane Complex Fire, which have forced more than 60,000 people from their homes. As of Monday, more than 8,000 acres had burned with zero percent containment, according to the Washington State Department of Natural Resources. The Mann-Grandstaff facility is closest to the Old Trails Fire, which began Saturday and was fueled by high winds that accelerated its spread toward populated areas.

VA officials acknowledged the widespread impact on both patients and staff in a Facebook post, stating, "We are grateful for the support received. Spokane VA extends our sincere condolences to all victims, including local VA staff members who, like so many, have lost so much." This statement indicates that VA employees themselves have been affected by the fires, losing homes and property while simultaneously working to ensure patient safety and continuity of care during the emergency.

For disabled veterans who depend on the Mann-Grandstaff facility for regular medical appointments, prescription refills, mental health services, or specialty care related to service-connected conditions, this closure represents a serious interruption in their healthcare continuity. Veterans with chronic conditions requiring regular monitoring, those undergoing treatment for service-connected disabilities, and those who rely on the facility's pharmacy services will need alternative arrangements while the center remains closed. The uncertainty around when operations will resume adds additional stress for veterans managing complex health needs.

Veterans enrolled at Mann-Grandstaff should monitor the facility's official Facebook page and other VA communication channels for updates on when services will resume and where they can access care in the interim. Those with urgent medical needs should contact the VA's main helpline or seek care at local emergency facilities if necessary. Veterans who have upcoming appointments should expect those to be rescheduled and may receive outreach from VA staff about alternative care arrangements. If you have not heard from the VA regarding your scheduled appointments or ongoing care needs, proactively contact the facility or your care team to ensure your treatment plan remains uninterrupted during this emergency situation.