Officials said the roach problem is so bad that some may have ended up on patients' meal trays.

Florida Sen. Bill Nelson said it is a constant battle for the VA to get back on track.

"This is ridiculous. We've got a long way to go on the VA," said Nelson.

In a statement, hospital officials said the problem stems from construction on a nearby property, or for other reasons.

Veteran Affairs said it has awarded a new five-year pest control contract focused on the canteen and food preparation areas.