Lloyd Austin released from hospital after prostate surgery complications

January 15, 2024

Lauren Taylor, Anchor

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Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin was discharged from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Monday, Jan. 15, after receiving non-surgical care and evaluations. Austin’s doctors released a statement indicating significant progress and a positive outlook for a full recovery.

According to the doctors’ statement, Austin showed improvement throughout his stay, and he has been sent home with planned physical therapy and regular follow-ups. The medical team expects a complete recovery.

This discharge follows a two-week recovery period from complications related to prostate cancer surgery. During this time, Austin faced scrutiny for keeping his health condition a secret from senior Biden administration leaders, a move President Biden referred to as a “lapse in judgment.”

Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks assumed Austin’s duties earlier this month, a transition that occurred before the White House was aware of his hospitalization. Austin has since resumed his duties.

In response to the situation, the Defense Department’s Inspector General announced a review to examine the handling of Secretary Austin’s hospitalization. The review’s focus is to assess whether DOD policies and procedures ensure timely notifications and a smooth transition of authorities in relevant situations.