Getting Your Life
Back
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpNBA130C2o
#GerofitExercise:
Core Strengthening and Back Pain Prevention Routine – March 15, 2021
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CR7rjAUX6Xc
GAO Report to
Congressional Committees, VA DISABILITY, Clearer Claims Processing Guidance
Needed for Selected Agent Orange Conditions - September
2022
https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-22-105191.pdf
Toxic Exposure
Screenings: Vets Report Spotty Follow-Up on Questionnaire Meant to Boost Health
Care and Benefits – April 24, 2024
https://www.military.com/daily-news/2024/04/24/toxic-exposure-screenings-vets-report-spotty-follow-questionnaire-meant-boost-health-care-and.html
Exposure to Burn
Pit Emissions and Respiratory Diseases? | Environmental Health | JAMA Network –
April 25, 2024
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2818098
VA Executives
Received $10.8 Million in Improper Bonuses Under PACT Act, Watchdog Finds – May
10, 2024
https://www.military.com/daily-news/2024/05/10/va-executives-received-108-million-improper-bonuses-under-pact-act-watchdog-finds.html
Graphic novel
tells story of Army captain who tackled suicide bomber. The publication is the latest in a series by
the Association of the United States Army about soldiers who have received the
Medal of Honor. – May 24, 2024
https://www.militarytimes.com/news/2024/05/24/graphic-novel-tells-story-of-army-captain-who-tackled-suicide-bomber/
VA
Study Documents Health Risks for Burn Pit Exposures - May 31, 2024
https://www.research.va.gov/currents/0524-VA-Study-Documents-Health-Risks-for-Burn-Pit-Exposures.cfm#:~:text=For%20every%20100%20days%20of,bases%20in%20Afghanistan%20and%20Iraq
“The Women”:
Author, Vietnam nurse describe book’s effect – June 27, 2024
https://www.legion.org/womenveterans/261992/%E2%80%9C-women%E2%80%9D-author-vietnam-nurse-describe-book%E2%80%99s-effect
VA Warns Congress
that Benefits Payments Are at Risk Due to Projected $15 Billion Budget
Shortfall – July 18, 2024
https://www.military.com/daily-news/2024/07/18/va-warns-congress-benefits-payments-are-risk-due-projected-15-billion-budget-shortfall.html
VA Health Chat is
now available in all 18 VISNs. “Health
Chat will definitely be my go-to for scheduling appointments.” - July 23, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133080/va-health-chat-is-now-available-in-all-18-visns/
Admera Health
Agrees to Pay over $5 Million to Settle False Claims Act Allegations of
Kickbacks to Third Party Marketers – July 24, 2024
https://www.justice.gov/usao-edca/pr/admera-health-agrees-pay-over-5-million-settle-false-claims-act-allegations-kickbacks
Gary
Sinise celebrates 30 years of Forrest Gump with Opry performance – July 29,
2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PgobwCuDMME
Biden-Harris
Administration Expands Access to Housing for Veterans. New HUD policy changes will enable veterans
with service-connected disability benefits access more housing opportunities –
August 8, 2024
https://www.hud.gov/press/press_releases_media_advisories/HUD_No_24_202
Tulsa
Physician Pays Over $600k to Resolve Allegations of False Claims Act Violations
– August 9, 2024
https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndok/pr/tulsa-physician-pays-over-600k-resolve-allegations-false-claims-act-violations
In two years of the PACT Act,
VA has delivered benefits and health care to thousands of toxic-exposed
Tennessee Veterans and their survivors - August 9, 2024
https://www.va.gov/tennessee-valley-health-care/news-releases/in-two-years-of-the-pact-act-va-has-delivered-benefits-and-health-care-to-thousands-of-toxic-exposed/
Homeless vets set to receive
more housing help – August 9, 2024
https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2024/08/09/homeless-vets-set-to-receive-more-housing-help/
VA
takes steps to expand access to benefits for Veterans who served at K2 and
their survivors - August 9, 2024
https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-takes-steps-to-expand-access-to-benefits-for-veterans-who-served-at-k2-and-their-survivors/
VA
and the Biden-Harris Administration announce new government-wide website, call
center to protect Veterans from fraud and scams - August 9, 2024
https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-and-the-biden-harris-administration-announce-new-government-wide-website-call-center-to-protect-veterans-from-fraud-and-scams/
Beware:
Claims predators want to prey on your benefits - August 9, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133852/beware-claims-predators-want-to-prey-on-your-benefits/
VA launches a new
platform to help veterans identify and report scams. Scammers have increasingly targeted veterans
and their beneficiaries, particularly after the PACT Act expanded benefits and
health services for retired service members. - August 13, 2024
https://www.govexec.com/technology/2024/08/va-launches-new-platform-help-veterans-identify-and-report-scams/398765/
Medic
in the Mekong: A soldier’s valor under fire in Vietnam – August 14, 2024
https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2024/08/14/medic-in-the-mekong-a-soldiers-valor-under-fire-in-vietnam/
VA to expand
benefits access for US vets of K2 Uzbekistan base – August 14, 2024
https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2024/08/14/va-to-expand-benefits-access-for-us-vets-of-k2-uzbekistan-base/
Care in the
Community Inspection of VA MidSouth Healthcare Network (VISN 9) and Selected VA
Medical Centers – August 15, 2024
https://www.vaoig.gov/reports/care-community-healthcare-inspection/care-community-inspection-va-midsouth-healthcare
Ineffective
Oversight of Community Care Providers’ Special-Authorization Drug Prescribing
Increased Pharmacy Workload and Veteran Wait Times – August 15, 2024
https://www.vaoig.gov/reports/audit/ineffective-oversight-community-care-providers-special-authorization-drug-prescribing
TIPS
FOR MILITARY SPOUSES
https://www.vaforvets.va.gov/vaforvets/docs/Military-Spouse-Fact-Sheet.pdf
American
Tragedy: 15 Ways Veterans Are Mistreated in the U.S. – August 15, 2024
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/american-tragedy-15-ways-veterans-are-mistreated-in-the-u-s/ss-AA1oQRok
Project
2025 Would Be a Disaster for Veterans – August 15, 2024
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/project-2025-would-be-a-disaster-for-veterans/ar-AA1oRDcR
Automated
pharmacy means more Veterans get prescriptions faster. “It looks like we will hit 23.8 million this
year.” – August 15, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133691/automated-pharmacy-veterans-get-prescriptions/
South
Carolina Residents Ordered to Pay $50,000 Fine and More Than $400,000 in
Restitution Following Their Conviction in “Rent-A-Vet” Construction Fraud
Scheme Targeting the United States Department of Veterans Affairs – August 15,
2024
https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdpa/pr/south-carolina-residents-ordered-pay-50000-fine-and-more-400000-restitution-following
A
patient died at Aurora VA hospital after staffer turned off their notification
device. VA’s Office of Inspector General
found technician missed several red alarms over patient’s condition – August 15,
2024
https://www.denverpost.com/2024/08/15/aurora-va-hospital-investigation-patient-alarms/
Job
Opening: Benefits Coordinator; Department: Military & Veterans Affairs,
Delaware County; Posting Date: August 15, 2024; Salary: $55,000.00 Annually
https://delcopa.gov/employment/jobpostings/benefitscoordinator.html
Delaware
Valley Veterans' Home
https://www.dmva.pa.gov/paveteranshomes/DelawareValleyVeteransHome/Pages/default.aspx
VA
Returns Mistakenly Buried ‘Unclaimed Veteran’ Back to His Family in Colorado. After Two-Year Search, Air Force Veteran's
Siblings Discovered through Google Search He Was Interred in New York – August
16, 2024
https://thewarhorse.org/va-returns-mistakenly-buried-unclaimed-veteran-back-to-his-family-in-colorado/
Physical
Disability Board of Review - Frequently Asked Questions
https://www.afpc.af.mil/Portals/70/documents/MILITARY%20RECORDS/PDBR%20Frequently%20Asked%20Questions.pdf
Physical
Disability Board of Review
https://www.pebforum.com/forums/physical-disability-board-of-review.91/
Master
Sgt. Roddie Edmonds Courageously Saved The Lives of 200-300 Jewish-American
Soldiers in A German POW Camp – August 16, 2024
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/master-sgt-roddie-edmonds-courageously-saved-the-lives-of-200-300-jewish-american-soldiers-in-a-german-pow-camp/ss-AA1oV44e
Speech
therapy in the digital age. An average
of 8,000 TeleSpeech appointments per month - August 16, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133746/speech-therapy-in-the-digital-age/
Honoring
Veterans: Army Veteran Raymond Yoshihiro Aka - August 16, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133772/honoring-veterans-army-veteran-raymond-yoshihiro-aka/
Gulf
War Illness committee meetings set for this month - August 16, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133668/gulf-war-illness-committee-meetings-set/
Explore
VA’s contributions to breast cancer research and treatment. Join the fight against breast cancer - August
16, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133065/explore-va-breast-cancer-research-and-treatment/
VA
awards over $800 million in grants to help homeless and at-risk Veterans and
their families - August 16, 2024
https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-awards-over-800-million-in-grants-to-help-homeless-and-at-risk-veterans-and-their-families/
Pa.
veterans at risk of homelessness to benefit from millions in funding – August
16, 2024
https://www.post-gazette.com/news/social-services/2024/08/16/pa-veterans-benefit-federal-funding-homeless/stories/202408160096
Where
Are You Now? A song about our MIA’s
written by VVA’s Government Affairs Director, James McCormick
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QUXrndFiM10ndJgVMnQaAQZF_E3QdnjD/view
The
VVA Veteran Online Video Series
https://www.vvaveteran.org/videos/index.html
Finding
community while navigating his personal combat zone. Marine Corps Veteran Pierre Sturgis tells his
story - August 17, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133760/finding-community-navigating-personal-combat/
Texas
Veteran conquers rehabilitation after stroke.
“The rehabilitation is pushing me to new limits.” - August 17, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133750/veteran-conquers-rehabilitation-after-stroke/
Pittsburgh
VA Community Living Center now a five-star facility. “Our CLC in Pittsburgh prioritizes quality.”
- August 18, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133864/va-community-living-center-five-star-facility/
Nurse
loses over 100 pounds with MOVE! Program.
Mother’s health inspires VA nurse to make changes - August 18, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133867/nurse-loses-over-100-pounds-with-move-program/
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting
Agency announced that a burial update for -- Korean War
Army Corporal Frederick A. Higgins
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/Press-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3872269/soldier-accounted-for-from-korean-war-higgins-f/
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that a burial update for
-- WWII Navy
Reserve Lieutenant Jay R. Manown Jr.
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/Press-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3844267/pilot-accounted-for-from-wwii-manown-j/
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that a burial update for
-- WWII Army Air
Forces Staff Sgt. Alvin R. Scarborough
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/Press-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3867515/airman-accounted-for-from-wwii-scarborough-a/
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that a burial update for
-- WWII Army Air
Forces Private 1st Class Harry M. Seiff
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/Press-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3867959/airman-accounted-for-from-wwii-seiff-h/
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that a burial update for
-- WWII Army Air
Forces 2nd Lt. Francis E. Callahan
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/Press-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3855122/airman-accounted-for-from-wwii-callahan-f/
Statement
from the President of Vietnam Veterans of America. Regarding Recent Comments on
Medal of Honor and Civilian Presidential Medal of Freedom – August 19, 2024
https://vva.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/PressReleaseNo.24-13.pdf
VA’s
Virtual Psychotherapy Program for Caregivers.
Ensuring caregivers receive mental health support - August 19, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133872/virtual-psychotherapy-program-for-caregivers/
Take
the time: Reduce your risk of suicide crisis.
Be prepared by taking care of yourself now - August 19, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133672/take-the-time-reduce-your-risk-suicide-crisis/
Hiring
Veterans: Jobs of the week for August 19, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134095/hiring-veterans-jobs-of-the-week-for-august-19/
Live
Whole Health #235: Habits: What’s serving you today? - August 19, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134100/live-whole-health-235-habits-whats-serving-you-today/
PTSD
treatment may lower need for insulin prescriptions in some veterans, study
finds – August 19, 2024
https://www.stripes.com/veterans/2024-08-19/ptsd-veteran-diabetes-insulin-14911055.html
Amazing
Grace: Former POW Shoshana Johnson. Former
POW Shoshana Johnson finds strength in her faith, her community and her
American Legion post. Read the full story in the September issue of The
American Legion magazine or online at https://www.legion.org/magazine - August
19, 2024
https://www.legion.org/legiontv/PLD74653C32937FDD6/zAkRDwKyPFE
Vets
may see only a small cost-of-living boost in benefits next year – August 19,
2024
https://www.militarytimes.com/veterans/2024/08/19/vets-may-see-only-a-small-cost-of-living-boost-in-benefits-next-year/
Supporting
houseless Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Veterans. VA Pacific Islands psychologists visit Ending
Veteran Homelessness podcast - August 20, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133876/houseless-native-hawaiian-pacific-islander/
Myth
busted with one simple question: Am I eligible?
“They have been so good to me since the first day.” - August 20, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133767/myth-busted-with-simple-question-am-i-eligible/
The
solution to hunger is in your back yard - August 20, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134089/the-solution-to-hunger-is-in-your-back-yard/
A
game changer for Veterans: American Legion, Regiment Gaming unveil egaming room
- August 20, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134111/american-legion-regiment-gaming-egaming-room/
Three
Federal Workers Indicted on PPP Loan Fraud Charges – August 21, 2024
https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdil/pr/three-federal-workers-indicted-ppp-loan-fraud-charges
Incomplete
Implementation of Corrective Actions to Address Pharmacy Service Concerns at
the VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System in Leeds – August 21,
2024
https://www.vaoig.gov/reports/hotline-healthcare-inspection/incomplete-implementation-corrective-actions-address-pharmacy
Busy
Marine Veteran uses TeleMOVE! to maintain a healthy lifestyle. “This program helps to keep me accountable.”
- August 21, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133901/busy-veteran-uses-telemove-to-healthy-lifestyle/
Free
online courses for Veterans needing business start-up or accelerator help. Free Warrior Rising online course for Veteran
entrepreneurs. Apply by August 26 - August 21, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134155/free-courses-business-start-up-accelerator-help/
Telehealth
care coordinator’s actions save Veteran.
“We’re all in our health care journeys together.” - August 21, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133805/telehealth-care-coordinators-save-veteran/
VA
improves access to claims information - August 21, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134099/va-improves-access-to-claims-information/
DMVA
Digest - A publication of the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans
Affairs - August
21, 2024
https://maestro.pa.gov/list/k3hdw2n4/240819F/3r7g56pb1sji.vib?a0=16936
‘No
one wants to touch this’: VA treatment delayed for Iraq vets sick from chemical
weapons exposure – August 21, 2024
https://www.stripes.com/theaters/us/2024-08-21/iraq-veterans-chemical-weapons-exposure-14936305.html
Join
VA’s virtual class, Agent Orange: What You Need to Know, and learn about
Agent Orange exposure, related health conditions, benefits, and information for
Blue Water Navy Veterans. This free class takes place on Thursday,
September 26, from 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. ET. You can attend through your
personal computer, smart phone, or tablet. To learn more about this class
and sign up, see the class flyer at
https://www.warrelatedillness.va.gov/WARRELATEDILLNESS/education/local-offerings/support/Agent_Orange_flyer.pdf
Veterans
Crisis Line Implementation of 988 Press 1 Preparation and Leaders' Response –
August 22, 2024
https://www.vaoig.gov/reports/national-healthcare-review/veterans-crisis-line-implementation-988-press-1-preparation-and
How
a disabled Army Veteran learned new skills for the defense of her country - August
22, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134168/disabled-u-s-army-veteran-learned-new-skills/
My
HealtheVet coordinators lead healthy eating event. “It’s important for Veterans to know how to
eat healthy.” - August 22, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134062/my-healthevet-coordinators-healthy-eating-event/
Newsbytes
August 23, 2024. In this issue: Concurrent
Receipt in Senate NDAA; Housing Program Expands; Suspension of ANC Caisson
Platoon; FRA Moving Soon; USMCR Birthday
https://fra.org/fra/Web/Content/News_Byte/FRA_NewsBytes_August_23_2024.aspx
Honoring
Veterans: Marine Corps Veteran Nick Jones - August 23, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134213/honoring-veterans-marine-corps-veteran-nick-jones/
Sharon
Sotero finds healing competing in Golden Age Games. From walker to competitive power walking - August
23, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133897/sharon-sotero-finds-healing-in-golden-age-games/
Government
has clawed back more than $2.5B given to veterans to leave the military, data
shows. “It felt like I would never see
the light at the end of the tunnel,” said an Army veteran who struggled to
repay the roughly $74,000 incentive he received. – August 23, 2024
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/government-clawed-back-25-billion-veterans-got-leave-military-data-sho-rcna167436
VA
military spouse employees retain employment through paid leave. Time off when you need it -
August
23, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133309/va-military-spouse-employees-retain-employment-2/
Bay
Pines VA nurses complete residency program.
Post-Baccalaureate Registered Nurse Residency - August 24, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134119/bay-pines-va-nurses-complete-residency-program/
Navy
Veteran creates smiles with dental technology.
Using 3D printing to revolutionize dental care - August 25, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133918/navy-veteran-creates-smiles-dental-technology/
Veterans
Home holds softball game for suicide prevention walk – August 25, 2024
https://www.wtaj.com/news/local-news/veterans-home-holds-softball-game-for-suicide-prevention-walk/
Trump
visits Arlington Cemetery to mark Afghanistan withdrawal anniversary – August
26, 2024
https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/4847537-trump-arlington-cemetery-afghanistan-anniversary/
VA
brings vision-saving eye screening closer to home for Veterans. “Her attention to detail likely saved this
Veteran from going blind.” - August 26, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134055/va-brings-vision-saving-eye-screening-closer/
Hiring
Veterans: Jobs of the week for August 26, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134227/hiring-veterans-jobs-of-the-week-for-august-26/
Celebrating
Women’s Equality Day: A journey toward inclusive liberty - August 26, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134226/celebrating-womens-equality-day-a-journey-toward-inclusive-liberty/
U.S.
Attorney’s Office Obtains $850,000 Settlement with Fresno Acupuncturist to
Resolve False Claims Act Allegations of Improper Billing – August 26, 2024
https://www.justice.gov/usao-edca/pr/us-attorneys-office-obtains-850000-settlement-fresno-acupuncturist-resolve-false
Bridge
Named After Fallen Solider: ‘They Are Not Forgotten’ – August 26, 2024
https://levittownnow.com/2024/08/26/bridge-named-after-fallen-solider-they-are-not-forgotten/
Live
Whole Health #236: Avocado Black Bean Salad charms with flavor and fiber - August
26, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134225/live-whole-health-236-avocado-black-bean-salad-charms-with-flavor-and-fiber/
In
the Past Decade, VA Has Recouped $2.4 Billion in Separation Pay, Bonuses from
Disabled Vets – August 26, 2024
https://www.military.com/daily-news/2024/08/26/past-decade-va-has-recouped-24-billion-separation-pay-bonuses-disabled-vets.html
Inspection
of Continental District 4 Vet Center Operations – August 27, 2024
https://www.vaoig.gov/reports/vet-center-inspection-program/inspection-continental-district-4-vet-center-operations
Inspection
of Select Vet Centers in Continental District 4 Zone 1 – August 27, 2024
https://www.vaoig.gov/reports/vet-center-inspection-program/inspection-select-vet-centers-continental-district-4-zone-1
Inspection
of Select Vet Centers in Continental District 4 Zone 2 – August 27, 2024
https://www.vaoig.gov/reports/vet-center-inspection-program/inspection-select-vet-centers-continental-district-4-zone-2
U.S.
Attorney Jesse Laslovich announces $10.8 million civil settlement with St.
Peter’s Health over False Claims Act misconduct – August 27, 2024
https://www.justice.gov/usao-mt/pr/us-attorney-jesse-laslovich-announces-108-million-civil-settlement-st-peters-health-over
Exploring
Rural VA Communities: Sheridan, Wyoming - Enjoy a change of pace - August 27,
2024
https://news.va.gov/133313/exploring-rural-va-communities-sheridan-wyoming/
Meeting
the mental health care needs of Veterans - August 27, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134122/meeting-mental-health-care-needs-of-veterans/
Avoiding
predatory practices. Protect Yourself
and Your Pocketbook Online - August 27, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134240/protect-yourself-avoiding-predatory-practices/
Combat tours
don’t cause permanent readjustment issues for vets: Study – August 27, 2024
https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2024/08/27/combat-tours-dont-cause-permanent-readjustment-issues-for-vets-study/
John
Patrick O'Donnell Sr. Obituary – August 27, 2024
https://www.lifecelebration.com/obituary/john-odonnell-sr
Trump Tries New
Excuse for Messy Fight at Arlington National Cemetery. Donald Trump’s campaign staff reportedly got
into a physical altercation with staff at Arlington National Cemetery—and Trump
wants to make the story disappear. – August 28, 2024
https://newrepublic.com/post/185359/trump-staff-fight-arlington-national-cemetery
Veterans
Health Administration Patient Experience at the Intersection of Gender and
Race-Ethnicity: Special Report from the National Veteran Health Equity Report –
August 2024
https://www.va.gov/HEALTHEQUITY/docs/NVHER_WV_Intersectionality_Chartbook_508_08222024.pdf
VBA
Needs to Improve Oversight of the Digital GI Bill Platform – August 28, 2024
https://www.vaoig.gov/reports/audit/vba-needs-improve-oversight-digital-gi-bill-platform
Incorrect
Use of the Baker Act at the North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System
in Gainesville, Florida – August 28, 2024
https://www.vaoig.gov/reports/healthcare-facility-inspection/incorrect-use-baker-act-north-floridasouth-georgia-veterans
New
episodes of Let’s Talk Virtual Care podcast.
Discussing older adults and their use of VA Video Connect. - August 28,
2024
https://news.va.gov/134140/new-episodes-of-lets-talk-virtual-care-podcast/
The
G.I. Bill changes lives. Veterans,
leaders celebrate the 80th anniversary of groundbreaking legislation - August
28, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134266/the-g-i-bill-changes-lives/
National
Veterans Summer Sports Clinic. “Adaptive
sports help me find a sense of purpose.” - August 28, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134295/national-veterans-summer-sports-clinic-2/
DMVA
Digest: A publication of the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans
Affairs - August
28, 2024
https://maestro.pa.gov/list/k3hdw2n4/240826E/36qw6pkvr6ow.vib?a0=16449
‘Deeply
offensive’: Retired General reacts to Trump’s Arlington Cemetery controversy –
August 28, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBqJZiBNa70
Coatesville
VA Strides to Prevent Suicide 5k Run/Walk, Sat September 7, 2024, Coatesville,
PA 19320 US Directions
https://runsignup.com/Race/PA/Coatesville/StridestoPreventSuicideCoatesvilleVASuicidePreventionWalkRun5K
Tango
Alpha Lima | The American Legion
https://www.legion.org/tangoalphalima
Kansas
Navy veteran who repaired electronic aircraft components spent 15 years in
service – August 28, 2024
https://www.yahoo.com/news/kansas-navy-veteran-repaired-electronic-010000366.html
Chuck
Odom Elected National Chairman of the Conference of State Council Presidents of
Vietnam Veterans of America – August 28, 2024
https://vva.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/PressReleaseNo.24-15.pdf
House
subcommittee wants VA to put more of a spotlight on its veteran employment
program. In a field hearing of the
Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity, House members pressed for more insights
and potential exposure of the Veteran Readiness and Employment program. –
August 28, 2024
https://www.govexec.com/pay-benefits/2024/08/house-subcommittee-wants-va-put-more-spotlight-veteran-employment-program/399078/
New
Details Shed True Horror of Trump’s Fight at Arlington Cemetery. The Arlington National Cemetery official
attacked by Trump campaign staffers is now afraid of retaliation. – August 29,
2024
https://newrepublic.com/post/185415/trump-fight-arlington-national-cemetery-official-retaliation
Deficiencies
in Facility Leaders’ Summary Suspension of a Provider and Patient Safety
Reporting Concerns at the VA Black Hills Health Care System in Fort Meade,
South Dakota – August 29, 2024
https://www.vaoig.gov/reports/hotline-healthcare-inspection/deficiencies-facility-leaders-summary-suspension-provider-and
Learn
more about Pharmacogenomics – August 29, 2024
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USVHA/bulletins/3afca89
Bridging
the Gap: Regiment Gaming aims to bring eSports to the National Veterans Golden
Age Games - August 29, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134347/national-veterans-golden-age-games-2/
Houston
VA clinic: ALS Certified Treatment Center of Excellence. Received designation from the ALS Association
- August 29, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134244/houston-va-als-certified-center-of-excellence/
What
real estate industry changes mean for VA home loan borrowers - August 29, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134310/what-real-estate-industry-changes-mean-for-va-home-loan-borrowers/
National
Veterans Golden Age Games. Air Force
Veteran has found a renewed sense of purpose - August 29, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134327/national-veterans-golden-age-games/
US
Army rebukes Trump campaign for incident at Arlington National Cemetery –
August 29, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TxEqhoMTQ74
Gold
Star father slams Trump’s 'disgusting' Arlington Cemetery stunt near his son's
grave – August 29, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhyLC_v30sY
Trump's
Arlington Stunt is Much Worse Thank You Think! – August 29, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBJBsuS9tLY
87,000
Vietnam Veterans May Qualify for $844 Million in Benefits. How Come Nobody Told
Them? – August 29, 2024
https://thewarhorse.org/va-millions-benefits-vietnam-veterans-agent-orange/
87,000
Vietnam Veterans May Qualify for $844 Million in Benefits. How Come Nobody Told
Them? – August 29, 2024
https://www.military.com/daily-news/2024/08/29/87000-vietnam-veterans-may-qualify-844-million-benefits-how-come-nobody-told-them.html
Price
tag for VA’s new GI Bill online platform has jumped nearly $500M – August 29,
2024
https://www.militarytimes.com/education-transition/2024/08/29/price-tag-for-vas-new-gi-bill-online-platform-has-jumped-nearly-500m/
FED
Up Veterans CONFRONT Trump Over Cemetery STUNT – August 29, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M9f4I1kSEfk
Preventing
Veteran suicide in local communities. VA
partnering with community organizations across the country - August 30, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133904/preventing-veteran-suicide-in-local-communities/
Honoring
Veterans: Marine Corps Veteran Robert Wiggins - August 30, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134383/honoring-veterans-marine-corps-veteran-robert-wiggins/
Phoenix
VA coach helps fellow Veterans find resilience through fitness. “Fitness became my lifeline.” – August 30, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134183/phoenix-va-coach-helps-veterans-through-fitness/
National
Veterans Summer Sports Clinic. Day 2 in
San Diego - August 30, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134330/national-veterans-summer-sports-clinic-3/
STUDY
ON VIETNAM VETERANS & EXPOSURE TO OPEN-AIR BURNING – August 30, 2024
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wEDopd6ny5zMgdw-pio9euM8xw9c2dZI/view
I
Was There - James Lane's time in the Ia Drang Valley 1965 – August 30, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLliWNhnGTo
Events
in September offer an excellent start to your VA journey. Find your way to VA - August 30, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133398/events-september-excellent-start-to-va-journey/
Agent
Orange & Other Toxic Exposures
https://vva.org/what-we-do/outreach-programs/agent-orange/
She
attended Arlington National Cemetery event at center of Trump controversy.
Here's what she saw – August 31, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TuoudBt8Qdg
This
International Overdose Awareness Day, August 31, the U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs (VA) is amplifying the message: Together, we can reduce the
risk of overdose and save lives. VA encourages you to know how to identify and
respond to an overdose. Whether you’re a Veteran or a family member or friend
of a Veteran, VA has resources to help.
https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use/index.asp
Navy
Veteran participates in Veterans Golden Age Games. “This rehabilitation sports event inspires
me.” - August 31, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134341/navy-veteran-participates-in-golden-age-games/
Together,
we can reduce the risk of overdose. Naloxone
can reverse the effects of an overdose -
August
31, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134191/together-we-can-reduce-the-risk-of-overdose/
'Desecrated by
Donald Trump': Widow of former marine calls out Trump’s Arlington photo-op –
September 1, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzFD9KtrHZE
'I'm Just
Speechless': Gold Star Mother Decries 'Altercation' At Arlington National
Ceremony – September 1, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6EVDVaV4T8Q
How the Arlington
cemetery 'scuffle' left Trump's team in chaos again – September 1, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PkoR8SRZs-U
Harris
criticizes Trump for Arlington Cemetery incident; some Gold Star families
defend his visit – September 1, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7d9ysqu-JOU
PTSD
and eating disorders. Eating disorders
affect everyone - September 1, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134250/ptsd-and-eating-disorders/
CWV
Book Corner, September: Coast Guard Veteran Nancy McIntosh - September 1, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134422/cwv-book-corner-september-coast-guard-veteran-nancy-mcintosh/
Up
to 70% of women with PCOS remain undiagnosed.
Polycystic ovary syndrome - September 1, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133908/up-to-70-of-women-with-pcos-remain-undiagnosed/
Richard
E. Cavazos, General, 65th Infantry Regiment, 18th Infantry Regiment, January
31, 1929 – October 29, 2017
https://www.thenmusa.org/biographies/richard-e-cavazos/
Veterans
receive innovative treatments for prostate cancer. VA provides best in class cancer care for
Veterans with prostate cancer - September 2, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134302/veterans-receive-treatments-for-prostate-cancer/
Veteran
Resources: Events of the week Sept. 2, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134443/veteran-resources-events-week-sept-2-2024/
AI
technology is helping crisis line responders.
ReflexAI provides AI powered training - September 2, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133911/ai-technology-is-helping-crisis-line-responders/
Hiring
Veterans: Jobs of the week for Sept. 2, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134413/hiring-veterans-jobs-of-the-week-september-2/
An
Olympic-size thrill at the Golden Age Games.
The highlight of my Golden Age Games experience.” - September 2, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134356/an-olympic-size-thrill-at-the-golden-age-games/
Live
Whole Health #237: Embrace the wisdom of your body - September 2, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134421/live-whole-health-237-embrace-the-wisdom-of-your-body/
Independent
Review of VA’s Special Disabilities Capacity Report for Fiscal Year 2022 –
September 3, 2024
https://www.vaoig.gov/reports/review/independent-review-vas-special-disabilities-capacity-report-fiscal-year-2022
5
Things to Understand about Trump’s Visit to Arlington – September 3, 2024
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/5-things-to-understand-about-trump-s-visit-to-arlington/ar-AA1pVUqO
Follow-up
Financial Efficiency Inspection of the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care
System in New Orleans - September 3, 2024
https://www.vaoig.gov/reports/financial-inspection/follow-financial-efficiency-inspection-southeast-louisiana-veterans
VA
health care outperforms non-VA care in two independent, nationwide quality and
patient satisfaction reviews - September 3, 2024
https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-health-care-outperforms-non-va-care-in-two-independent-nationwide-quality-and-patient-satisfaction-reviews/
Tomah
VA making wishes come true. VA and
Wisconsin Air National Guard made it happen -
September
3, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134298/tomah-va-making-wishes-come-true/
Recovery from
mental health challenges and substance use disorder. VA resources offer hope -
September 3, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134359/recovery-from-mental-health-and-substance-use/
Hospital
director biggest supporter of Veteran patients.
“I love how involved he is with the Veterans.” -
September
3, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134362/hospital-director-biggest-supporter-of-patients/
Environmental
services technicians provide valuable support at VA. A career that counts -
September 3, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133705/environmental-services-provide-support-at-va/
Connect
with our PGx team through the VA Health Chat app – September 3, 2024
https://mobile.va.gov/app/va-health-chat
To
continue empowering tomorrow’s leaders, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and
Student. Veterans of America (SVA) will
once again host the 2024-2025 VFW-SVA Legislative Fellowship, providing
exemplary student veterans the opportunity to make their voices heard on
Capitol Hill and in their community. This program has been held annually since
2014.
https://www.vfw.org/assistance/student-veterans-support/student-fellowship
24/7,
confidential crisis support. for
Veterans and their loved ones
https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
If
you’re a Veteran in crisis or concerned about one, crisis chat is available 24
hours a day, 7 days a week.
https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help-now/chat/
Proactive
planning can assist veterans and reassure their survivors regarding final
arrangements. Pre-need determination of eligibility for burial benefits enables
family members to honor final wishes and settle personal affairs.
https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/pre-need-eligibility/
The
Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced one burial update for Korean War
Army Pvt. 1st Class Arlie P. Barrett.
https://www.dpaa.mil/News-Stories/Press-Releases/PressReleaseArticleView/Article/3808106/soldier-accounted-for-from-korean-war-barrett-a/
Mental
health challenges, including drug and alcohol addiction (also known as
substance use disorders), are treatable. Find recovery, hope, and healing by
learning more about evidence-based treatments at VA and how these services can
meet your needs.
https://www.va.gov/recovery/
Check
Out Programs for Older Veterans. Almost
half of all Veterans are age 65 or older.
https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/older-veterans/resources.asp
People
of all genders, ages, sexual orientations, racial and ethnic backgrounds, and
branches of service have experienced miliary sexual trauma (MST). Like other
types of traumas, MST can negatively affect a person’s mental and physical
health, even many years later.
https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome/next-step.asp
The
substance use disorder (SUD) section of MentalHealth.va.gov has recently been
updated with information about signs, symptoms, and treatment options for
alcohol, cannabis, opioid, and stimulant use disorders.
https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use/index.asp
Cannabis Use
Linked to Epigenetic Changes, Study Shows – September 3, 2024
https://www.sciencealert.com/cannabis-use-linked-to-epigenetic-changes-study-shows
Vietnam
War Commemoration “SITREP” 2024 – Issue 10 – September 3, 2024
https://www.vietnamwar50th.com/assets/1/7/VWC_SITREP_2024_-_Issue_10.pdf
A
Hiring Initiative to Expand Substance Use Disorder Treatment Needed Stronger
Coordination, Planning, and Oversight - September 4, 2024
https://www.vaoig.gov/reports/review/hiring-initiative-expand-substance-use-disorder-treatment-needed-stronger
Flipping the
script: Redefining how we look at Veteran suicide prevention. Everyone plays a role in suicide prevention.
There is hope. - September 4, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134394/redefining-how-we-look-at-suicide-prevention/
Using ID.me to
access VA online services and exclusive discounts. Find exclusive military discounts from
hundreds of top brands - September 4, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134487/id-me-to-access-va-online-services-discounts/
Latest
information on infant breast/chestfeeding.
Here is a list of the well-known health benefits -
September 4, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134143/latest-information-infant-breast-chestfeeding/
Brown Water Navy
Vietnam Veteran reconnects with shipmate after 56 years! LAST SURVIVING MEMBERS OF APBU A112-4 -
September 4, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134457/vietnam-veteran-reconnects-shipmate-56-years/
Phoenix Veteran a
success story at Golden Age Games. “The
Golden Age Games have been a great experience for me.” - September 4, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134366/phoenix-veteran-success-story-golden-age-games/
Senators push
$15M bill to study birth defects in children of veterans exposed to toxic
chemicals – September 4, 2024
https://www.stripes.com/veterans/2024-09-04/veterans-toxic-exposure-birth-defects-children-15071006.html
The Elizabeth
Dole Foundation 9th Annual National Convening on September 24th, 2024 -
Register Today
https://web.cvent.com/event/3235d9cf-1c3a-4234-be73-7772b401de96/regProcessStep1
Boebert defends
vote against veterans’ health benefits, saying she didn’t want to spend ‘$600
billion forever’ – September 5, 2024
https://thehill.com/homenews/house/4864310-boebert-pact-act-vote/
Gov. Kay Ivey
calls for resignation of head of Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs –
September 5, 2024
https://www.cbs42.com/news/local/gov-kay-ivey-calls-for-resignation-of-head-of-alabama-department-of-veterans-affairs/
A Summary of OIG
Preaward Contract Reports Issued in Fiscal Years 2022 and 2023 on VA Federal
Supply Schedule Nonpharmaceutical Proposals – September 5, 2024
https://www.vaoig.gov/reports/review/summary-oig-preaward-contract-reports-issued-fiscal-years-2022-and-2023-va-federal
Follow-Up
Information Security Inspection at the Southwest Consolidated Mail Order
Pharmacy in Tucson, Arizona – September 5, 2024
https://www.vaoig.gov/reports/information-security-inspection/follow-information-security-inspection-southwest
Universal Sign
for Help. Fold four fingers over the
thumb - September 5, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134334/universal-sign-for-help/
2024 Veterans Day
Teacher’s Resource Guide now available for download - September 5, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134433/2024-veterans-teachers-resource-guide-download/
VA marks 23rd
anniversary of 9/11 with National Day of Service and Remembrance events at VA
national cemeteries nationwide - September 5, 2024
https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-marks-23rd-anniversary-of-9-11-with-national-day-of-service-and-remembrance-events-at-va-national-cemeteries-nationwide/
Vets’ benefits
checks could be delayed without a VA funding fix soon – September 6, 2024
https://www.airforcetimes.com/veterans/2024/09/06/vets-benefits-checks-could-be-delayed-without-a-va-funding-fix-soon/
AMC SPACE
AVAILABLE TRAVEL
https://www.amc.af.mil/AMC-Travel-Site/AMC-Space-Available-Travel-Page/
Father and son
compete in the Golden Age Games. “We
always end up laughing and teasing each other.” – September 6, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134504/father-and-son-compete-in-the-golden-age-games/
Honoring
Veterans: Marine Veteran Brady ‘Totanka’ Cervantes – September 6, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134569/honoring-veterans-marine-veteran-brady-totanka-cervantes/
VA to send Gulf
War-era survey. Only pre-selected
Veterans will be contacted – September 6, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134180/va-to-send-gulf-war-era-survey/
Borinqueneers and
the Congressional Gold Medal – September 6, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134439/borinqueneers-and-the-congressional-gold-medal/
West LA's VA
campus called 'corrupt,' must build more veteran housing, judge rules –
September 6, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lhHKqmDGDwo
The Office of
Health Equity (OHE) champions the elimination of health disparities and
achieving health equity for all Veterans.
OHE supports the VHA's vision to provide appropriate individualized
health care to each Veteran in a way that eliminates disparate health outcomes
and assures health equity – September 6, 2024
https://www.va.gov/healthequity/
How to
successfully highlight education on a federal resume. Share your academic excellence -
September 6, 2024
https://news.va.gov/133708/how-to-highlight-education-on-a-federal-resume/
2024 Quadrennial
Women Veterans Summit – September 6, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t1pyYKdgnZk
Center for Women
Veterans (CWV)
https://www.va.gov/womenvet/
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Email from James Ulinski on September 6, 2024:
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September
2024 Veteran News
As always, I hope this
newsletter reaches you and your families in good health and enjoying the
weather as we get ready to enter the fall.
My first
topic is one that has bothered me for some time and I hope it bothers you. Our State DAV
has stopped the limited communication with members via Constant Contact as a
result of some financial difficulties they ran into due to a lawsuit and
payment of attorneys. Due to this, they shortened the Conference this year and
have now stopped their Constant Contact. They were never great in communicating
with their members (FYI---I am a life member and received my 50-year
certificate this year) but it is now worse!
I hope that they will
be able to get it together and move us into the future, instead of working in
the past. Some
of the things I talked about for years (Good of the Order), included at the
conference---1. Allowing members to meet with one another to talk about “best
practices”—what works for their chapters and what does not, 2. State
legislative updates (yes---there really is a lot affecting us happening in
Harrisburg), 3. Other information sharing that could benefit members and their
families, but very few people know about them—e.g. do you have everything in
order should you die suddenly so that your spouse/significant other does not
have to try and locate records, and navigate the system.
We actually did a few
of these several years ago, but they were poorly communicated to members
wanting to come to the conference.
If they and we want a
strong vibrant DAV PA, things need to change. As I have frequently mentioned
in the past, too many of our various military organizations have “good
old boys” set in their ways and often doing very little to move us
forward! This needs to change, and it begins with not accepting
mediocrity!
While I
specifically addressed my view of our DAV PA, it is not the only organization
operating in the past.
I am so very pleased to tell all the supporters for Military
Sexual Trauma Awareness that I've been invited to attend and speak at the U.S.
Capitol at an MST event.
Speakers will include several VSO's, members of Congress,
hopefully, DOD Office of Special Trial Council.
3 months ago, I called Kristen Meyers from Congresswoman
Houlihan's office and we talked about MST, suicide, homelessness, and the
impact it has on the victim, spouse, family. work, and life.
Kristen and Congresswoman Houlihan rapidly addressed my plea for
a National MST Awareness Day.
Hopefully, proposed legislation will also be spoken about.
I am the special guest. We all can make differences if we work
at it, and get important people to care. Kudos to Kristen (an
intern) and Congresswoman Houlihan.
Connect with our PGx team through the
VA Health Chat app
|
Do you have any questions about
your pharmacogenomic (PGx) test results? Would you like more information or
are you interested in PGx testing? A member of our VISN 4 PGx team can now
assist you in the VA Health Chat app.
The PGx feature in the VA Health
Chat App is now available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 12
p.m. ET. This feature will be available for a limited time to
Veterans receiving care at all VA medical centers in VISN 4.
How
can PGx testing benefit you?
· Help your provider find a
medication that is safe and effective for you
· Decrease side effects
· Reduce the trial-and-error
process of medication selection commonly seen with antidepressants and pain
regimens
· No cost to Veterans or facility
· A one-time blood test that may
have a lifetime of benefit
Download the VA Health Chat app
and learn more at https://mobile.va.gov/app/va-health-chat.
|
Questions?
Send an email to VISN4PharmacogenomicsTeam@va.gov or
call 206-310-6332.
Learn more about Pharmacogenomics
Join us on the first
Tuesday of every month at 10 a.m. ET to learn how a one-time blood
test empowers you to actively participate in your personalized treatment
journey.
Pharmacogenomics (PGx) looks at
your genes to reveal how your body reacts to specific medications. It allows
your provider to tailor your medications and therapies for maximum effect and
minimum side effects.
Topics of discussion
· What is PGx testing?
· How does PGx work?
· How can the results be beneficial for you?
· Medications that can be impacted.
· What do you need to know before testing?
· Why should you get tested?
· Where can testing be completed?
Join via Microsoft
Teams or by phone
· Date/Time: first
Tuesday of every month at 10 a.m. ET
· Join Microsoft Teams at https://bit.ly/3WfGcwx
Meeting ID: 265 373 202 374
Passcode: nG9Vbm
· Join by phone at 1-872-701-0185
Phone conference ID: 398 270 202#
Questions or trouble
joining?
Send an email to VISN4PharmacogenomicsTeam@va.gov or
call 206-310-6332.
Hoping
to save you aggravation while traveling in other states and needing medical
attention! This
information will hopefully save you some monumental hassles that I experienced
during my Khe Sanh Veterans Reunion for several days in Louisville, Kentucky.
In the evening, the night before our Memorial Service, membership meeting, and
banquet, I had my wife take me to an ER (I was diagnosed with COVID) in
Louisville. Several hours later and after traveling to several places in
Kentucky and a couple in Indianna to find someone to fill my prescription, I
was referred to the VA Hospital back in Kentucky who then wanted me to go back
to the ER (now the 3rd time) and get them to register me in
Kentucky before going back to the VA.
By this time, we were
into mid Saturday morning and we decided to just drive back to VA. My wife
drove the whole way (about 13 hours). Later found out after talking to Triage
that I should not take the medication prescribed unless severely sick with no options.
The below info was given to me by a member of the Triage team. Hopefully this
will reduce any headaches while traveling in another state.
FYI---you
may consider wearing a mask more often when in large groups, several members of
our Khe Sanh veterans came down with COVID and am hearing about other friends
and family members in other locations who have gotten it!
And
ALWAYS---get your various inoculations to keep you healthy---if you can!
Please see the
information below that we discussed on the phone. If you have any
questions, you can reach our Nurse Triage Clinical Contact Center directly 24/7
at 1-833-835-3874.
Just
wanted to send you the VHA 72-hour billing notification number. Please call
within 3 days of being seen at non-VA ER 1-844-724-7842
Please give the following pharmacy billing
information to the pharmacist at the in-network community pharmacy if needed:
BIN#:
PCN:
RX GROUP:
MEMBER
ID: your full 9-digit SSN
Please call Optum if you have any questions
in regards to your MA UCC benefits and also to report your visit to the outside
urgent care. They can be reached at 888-901-6609
If you have additional concerns
regarding the Mission Act, please contact your primary assigned care team
(PACT) or you may also contact your local VA facility main phone number and
choose Option 3 to speak to a nurse for more information. For help with urgent
care eligibility and general questions, call (800-698-2411),
select option 1, then option 3, and then option 1 again.
**24/7 VISN 4 CCC RN
nurse triage call center: call anytime by using option 3 when you call the VA
or direct 833-835-3874
Expanded
Access to Benefits for PA Disabled Veterans
A new Pennsylvania law that went into
effect last month exempts 100% of disabled veterans’ benefit payments from
income calculations for any Commonwealth program or benefit.
Act 27 of 2024 ensures veterans who receive disability compensation will
not have those payments counted against them when applying to programs such as
the Real Estate Property Tax Exemption, the Educational Gratuity Program, the Veterans Temporary Assistance
Program and the Military Family Relief Assistance
Program.
The exclusion also applies to unspent
veterans’ benefit payments and is extended to the unmarried surviving spouse of
a veteran upon that veteran’s death.
Grants
Awarded to Area Organizations to Help with Veteran Homelessness
Last month, the U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs (VA) announced more than $800 million in grants were awarded
to help homeless and at-risk veterans through the Supportive Services for Veteran
Families (SSVF) and Homeless Providers Grant and Per
Diem (GPD) programs.
In our region, recipients included
the PA
Veterans Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania, Inc., which serves many counties, including Senate District 25’s
Centre, Elk and McKean counties, and Soldier On of Delaware, Inc., which serves several counties including Senate District 25’s
Cameron, Centre, Clinton, Elk, Jefferson, McKean and Potter counties.
PA Veterans Leadership Program of
Western Pennsylvania, Inc. received $435,737 in GPD funding and $3.86 million
in SSVF grant funding; Soldier on of Delaware, Inc. received $4.22 million in
SSVF grant funding.
SSVF program funding is used to
rapidly rehouse veterans and their families, prevent the imminent loss of
veterans’ homes or identify more suitable housing situations. The GPD funding
allows organizations to provide veterans with transitional housing and case
management, including connecting eligible veterans to VA benefits,
community-based services and permanent housing; PA Veterans Leadership Program
of Western Pennsylvania, Inc. will be using its GPD grant to focus on helping
women veterans.
Guitar
For Veterans Program Helps Veterans Cope with PTSD Through Music
Last month, a story on the WTAJ-TV website caught my eye.
WTAJ reported about a musical program
for veterans — Guitar for Veterans (G4V) – that is helping those who served deal with their
PTSD.
There are more than 130 chapters of
G4V across the country; in Pennsylvania, there are chapters in Altoona, Butler,
Pittsburgh and Lebanon, but the national non-profit organization is expanding
and looking for more volunteers to start new chapters.
If you’re just interested in learning
to play guitar, the one-on-one lessons are free for all veterans and run for
ten weeks.
The organization also has a cyber
chapter that allows veterans to enroll in the G4V program free of charge and
complete 11 weekly online private lessons. These lessons are individualized and
designed to help veterans learn guitar at their own pace.
Upon completing the 11-week program,
veterans will receive a new acoustic guitar and all the accessories needed to
continue playing the instrument. You can learn more about the cyber
program here.
Claims
Predators Want to Prey on Your Benefits
More veterans are getting VA health
care and benefits than ever before, which also presents opportunities for
scammers to commit fraud against veterans and their families.
There are companies and individuals,
not accredited by VA, offering claims assistance services and charging hefty
fees when they do. There are also individuals and companies who are misleading
veterans to think it is okay to exaggerate disability symptoms to get higher
disability ratings.
These are what the VA refers to as
“claims predators”; they aggressively prey on veterans’ benefits through
various channels such as mail, telephone or online platforms. They try to take
advantage of veterans and their beneficiaries by using high-pressure tactics,
sharing misleading information and making false promises to convince veterans
to sign up for their services. These services usually come at a high cost to
veterans with little to no actual benefit.
Always verify the legitimacy of the
individual or company before providing any information. Remember: you should
never pay a fee to file an initial claim for benefits; it’s unlawful for anyone
to charge a fee for preparing an initial claim. Only VA-accredited attorneys,
claims agents and VSO representatives can lawfully assist veterans with their
initial benefits claims.
You can find VA-accredited claims
agents, attorneys and Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) here. These individuals and organizations are recognized by the VA,
having established the good character and competence necessary to navigate the
VA benefits system, ensuring veterans and their beneficiaries receive the
benefits they have rightfully earned.
To learn more about fraud scams and
how to safeguard your benefits, visit the Protecting Veterans from Fraud
website. There’s also the new
government-wide website – VSAFE.gov – and call center (1-833-388-7233) designed to protect
veterans, service members and their families from fraud and scams.
Kudos
to Senator Dush for providing the previous 4 pieces of info in the emails he sends
out!
While
at my Khe Sanh Vietnam Reunion in Kentucky, I met the Region VI Commander for
the National Association for Black Veterans, Inc., Shedrick J. Jones Sr. He approached
me as I sat in the lobby and introduced himself. He talked about NABVETS and
we talked about how we might work together furthering veteran causes.
If
you are like me, I had never heard of this organization until this
conversation. I have always felt there is strength in numbers and our veteran
organizations need to work more often together—whenever possible to further the
care of our veterans!
“NABVETS is a
nationally certified Veterans Service Organization, and a United States
Department of Veteran Affairs Claims Representative. We provide personal
advocacy on behalf of Veterans seeking assistance with claims and benefits. We
are a global community with chapters across the United States and
internationally.”
“We work in unity with
the community to end homelessness, empower low-income and minority Veterans and
provide services to disadvantaged youth. Our efforts are aimed at providing
both transitional and permanent housing solutions for Veterans and their families.
Through our comprehensive services, we offer a holistic approach to everything
from health and housing support, economic assistance, rehabilitation, and
education and training.”
“We are passionate
about preserving the historical contributions of minority Veterans and commemorating
their legacies. We amplify the voice of those often unheard, advocating for the
needs of homeless and economically challenged Veterans. Moreover, we’re
committed to assisting incarcerated Veterans and those reintegrating into
society with holistic wrap around services.”
If you are interested in more information about this veteran
organization, google NABVETS for their website and more fascinating
information! Kudos to Shedrick J. Jones Sr. for enlightening me about NABVETS
and having a chance to talk on his show. Wishing all of you a healthy and
cooler September
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VA leads the way
in exposure-informed care. Recognizing
two years of the PACT Act - September 7, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134611/va-leads-the-way-in-exposure-informed-care/
On the Line with
VoteVets: Project 2025 will Wreck the Military and Veterans Affairs – September
7, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5x3SR5kFwc
Special event for
expecting Veterans. “I was very happy to
find out there was help,” - September 7, 2024
https://news.va.gov/134372/special-event-for-expecting-veterans/
