SINSULL, your first 2 articles refer to a problem about 4 years ago in which a research program wasn't keeping the proper documentation. The problem was serious, but the investigation revealed that it was strictly an issue of not obtaining the proper permissions in the proper form, not that any "experiments" actually took place, and there was no impact on proper patient care. The next 2 are from an individual's website, and he clearly has personal issues with the VA.

One of the VA's strongest critics and most persistent watchdogs is the DAV.
Here is what they had to say about VA health care last year. My own experience (as administrative staff rather than as a patient) is that medical providers, especially physicians, won't work for what the VA can pay...typically about $100,000-$120,000 per year for a doctor. The national nursing shortage isn't helping, nor is the fact that the general physical condition of many VA patients means they need more care than the typical American.   

I'm not sure about closing VA facilities in Maine. There is only one hospital in the state, at Togus (Augusta). It is very small and dates back to the Civil War. This will get you information of that VA and others in Maine and New England.