War, despite its vicious and ugly nature, has a way of advancing both technology and medicine. The battles of World War II spurred the creation of antibiotics still used today, and out of the ashes of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, nuclear …
U.S. Navy Veteran
There are very few words that catch me quite like “Veteran.” It’s such a short word, but in today’s world, it means so much and identifies a person in just seven letters.
When I walked into the Albany Stratton VA Medical Center for the first time six years ago, it was hard to tell I belonged as a female combat Veteran. Posters featuring women didn’t line the walls. Gender specific care seemed …
Ten years ago today, I was glued to CNN as reports of air attacks on the Taliban were coming in. Images of explosions with night vision filters replaced comedy bits on The Daily Show and reruns of The Simpsons. I …
U.S. Army Veteran
With a half empty bottle of cheap wine in one hand (my third of the evening) and a DVD remote in the other, I sat on the sofa—eyes glazed over—numb. Somewhere in that drunken fog the night before I promised myself I was done drinking and I intended to keep that promise.
Dietitian at the Milwaukee VAMC
The Patient Aligned Care Team is sweeping the nation with innovative practice redesign, increased access to care, improvements in care management and superior care coordination for in all Veteran’s Affairs Medical Centers.
“When I walk out onto the field with these guys it gives me the goose bumps,” Dan Lasko, 28, said after playing the Diamond Dream Foundation at George Mason University this past Saturday. “I always say there was three times …
Veterans Crisis Line Supervisor
The Veteran’s Crisis Line is devoted to helping Veterans in crisis and their families. Please give us a call anytime at 1-800-273-8255 and press ‘1’ or visit us online.
U.S. Navy Veteran
With a few years under my belt dealing with both the VHA and VBA, I finally understand the reasons why they aren’t able to run things as efficient as they need to: VA is way too understaffed to handle the ever growing needs of Veterans. Read my proposal and please comment with your thoughts.
The 31st annual National Veterans Wheelchair Games wrapped up in Pittsburgh this past weekend. Over 600 athletes from 46 states made their mark on the Steel City—competing in 17 events that challenged their strength and endurance. Some of the most …
Get the Fastest Claim Decision: File a Fully Developed Claim
18 Jun 2013
U.S. Air Force Veteran; Communications Specialist, Veterans Benefits Administration
VA needed a checklist on how to file a digital claim for compensation through our new Fully Developed Claims program (FDC) – the fastest way to get a decision. So here it is.
Mobile Vet Centers Covered Down After Tragedy in Boston
17 Jun 2013
Chief communications officer, VA New England Healthcare System; U.S. Air Force & Coast Guard Veteran
VA deployed five mobile Vet Centers from across the region to assist Boston area Veterans as well as first responders to the bombing, providing on the ground counseling and referrals to anyone who needed it.
From the Battlefield to VA: How Federal Managers Can Connect with Veterans
13 Jun 2013
Team Leader, Veterans Benefits Administration; Iraq Veteran
As the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq come to a close we can anticipate the next generation of Veterans entering the federal workforce just as their predecessors.
VA’s Home Loans are More Than Just Buying a Home
11 Jun 2013
Deputy Undersecretary for Economic Opportunity
Are you aware that loans guaranteed by the VA Home Loan Program have had the lowest foreclosure rate in the past 19 quarters compared to all other types of home loans?
Post-9/11 Veterans Forge a New Path with The Mission Continues
31 May 2013
U.S. Marine Corps Veteran; Former fellow at The Mission Continues
More than 10 years after September 11, we are returning home, and the desire to serve and make a difference still remains strong.
How to Quit Smoking on World No Tobacco Day
29 May 2013
Management analyst, Tobacco & Health program, Veterans Health Administration
VA has partnered with the National Cancer Institute (NCI) to offer SmokefreeVET, a text message program to help Veterans quit smoking. SmokefreeVET provides support, advice, and tips to help you quit smoking and stay quit.
How the Principles of Excellence Protect You
28 May 2013
Director, VA’s Education Service
The Principles were designed to help ensure that students are given the right tools to assist them in making informed decisions when choosing a school to use their hard-earned GI Bill benefits.
Where Does Nutrition Fit in Healthcare?
21 May 2013
VA Nutritional Study Design (VANS-D) Project
We’re seeking ways to prevent the onset of diabetes, to reverse its progress, and to one day offer Veterans hope of eliminating the disease permanently.
