Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has been admitted to the critical care unit at Walter Reed Hospital for treatment of an emergent bladder issue, according to the Pentagon. The Secretary's duties have been transferred to Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks. The White House and Congress were promptly notified of the situation, a departure from Austin's previous hospital stay, when notification was delayed for weeks.
At present, Secretary Austin is receiving monitoring and supportive care at Walter Reed. The hospital has assured that these complications are not expected to hamper his full recovery from his recent prostate cancer surgery on December 22nd. The prognosis for his cancer is reported to be excellent. However, the duration of his hospitalization is unknown, which also leaves uncertainty regarding how long Deputy Defense Secretary Hicks will serve in the role.
