Since 1978, VA has used Valentine’s Day to provide a weeklong commemoration for Veteran patients by encouraging individuals to seek opportunities to volunteer at their local VA facilities, visit with inpatients, and distribute gifts and cards to hospitalized Veterans.

“As we take a moment to salute our Veteran patients, VA recognizes the efforts of volunteers and community members who help support our mission and we encourage all Americans to reach out to VA to explore more ways to give back,” said VA Secretary Denis McDonough. “For more than 75 years, volunteers have helped us keep America’s promise to Veterans by providing supplemental services and support when and where Veterans need them most.”

“The National Salute honors Vets and lifts our spirits. We love volunteering to give Veterans valentines and remind them that they are not forgotten,” said U.S. Army Veteran and VA volunteer, John Schuler. “As a Veteran, I love receiving cards from the kids and items from Voluntary Service [because] it makes me feel loved. The National Salute is a tradition we love at VA Central California in Fresno. Vets, if no one has told you they love you today, I do.”

In 2021, schools, community groups, and youth organizations nationwide sent more than 174,000 valentines to VA medical centers, which were distributed to Veteran patients at facilities across the country. Additionally, nearly 1,200 volunteers and more than 1,000 community organizations contributed to events and activities recognizing hospitalized Veterans.

In addition to donations VA provides volunteers with virtual and remote assignments such as the Compassionate Contact Corps which allow them to safely support Veterans during the pandemic.

To learn more about volunteer opportunities or to join the mission to honor the sacrifice and service of America’s Veterans during the National Salute or any time of year, contact your nearest VA facility.

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The proposed updates to the rating schedule for these conditions will enable VA to incorporate modern medical data and terminology to provide Veterans with more accurate and consistent decisions.

“Veterans who currently receive compensation for a service-connected condition in these body systems will not have their disability rating impacted when the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities is updated,” said Thomas Murphy, Northeast district director, performing the delegable duties of the undersecretary for benefits. “Updating the rating schedule allows Veterans to receive decisions based on the most current medical knowledge relating to their condition.”

By incorporating modern medical data in the assessment of disabilities and how they impact earning capacity, Veterans will receive evaluations which more accurately compensate them for their service-connected disabilities.

Proposed updates include:

• Modernizing the evaluative rating criteria for sleep apnea, using developments in medical knowledge to evaluate it based on its responsiveness to treatment, bringing the rating criteria for sleep apnea more closely in line with the stated purpose of the rating schedule.

• Evaluating tinnitus (ringing in the ears) as a symptom of the underlying disease which causes it, rather than as a stand-alone disability.

• Evaluating mental health conditions based on a more robust and holistic approach that assesses how impactful the disability is to cognition, interpersonal relationships, task completion, life activities and self-care.

Additionally, the proposed evaluation criteria include a 10% minimum evaluation for having one or more service-connected mental health conditions and will no longer require “total occupational and social impairment” to attain a 100% evaluation.

No change to a Veteran’s current rating would occur due to these proposed changes. If the proposed changes are finalized, Veterans who currently receive compensation for a service-connected condition can apply for increased compensation, but no reductions shall be made unless an improvement in the Veteran’s disability is shown to have occurred.

The public has 60 days to provide comments to VA regarding the two proposed updates via the Federal Register notices located here and here.

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VA will add 58 medical foster homes and 70 Veteran-directed care programs to VAMCs  across the nation and add 75 home-based primary care teams to areas with the highest unmet need.  

“These evidence-based programs allow Veterans to age-in-place, avoid or delay nursing home placement and choose the care environment that aligns most with their care needs, preferences and goals,” said Executive Director of VA Office of Geriatrics and Extended Care Scotte Hartronft, M.D. “Veterans using these programs have experienced fewer hospitalizations and emergency department visits, reduced hospital and nursing home days and fewer nursing home readmissions and inpatient complications.”

According to VA’s Policy Analysis and Forecasting Office, the number of Veterans of all ages who are eligible for nursing home care is estimated to expand from approximately 2 million Veterans in 2019 to more than 4 million by 2039. As this population grows, VA remains steadfast in providing the highest levels of care to Veterans in the least-restrictive settings.  

These programs provide an in-home or smaller care setting than traditional institutionalized long-term care. This smaller setting of care supports less risk of transmission of COVID and other infectious diseases. Many Veterans have chosen these programs instead of institutionalized care during the pandemic for more flexibility in care preferences and less risk of COVID transmission.

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Through a time-limited congressional authority, VAMCs can use these funds to bring help required for safety and survival and to support stability and health for transportation and communications equipment and services.   

“This unprecedented authority allows the Department of Veterans Affairs to meet the immediate needs of Veterans who lack stable housing, transportation to medical appointments, food and other essentials – all while helping them to achieve long-term housing and financial stability,” said VA Secretary Denis McDonough. “COVID-19 transmission continues to rise this winter in many communities and these resources will help VA use these flexibilities to protect the health and safety of homeless and at-risk Veterans.”

In 2021 VAMCs across the country helped more than 24,000 Veterans from May through November thanks to the expanded authorization described in section 4201(a) of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020 (Public Law 116-315). VAMCs have purchased groceries, meals, apartment start-up kits, furniture, merchandise vouchers and laundry vouchers for Veterans experiencing homelessness. In addition, these funds have allowed for the creation of a nationally coordinated rideshare program which offers support to Veterans who need transportation to meet health, housing, legal and employment needs.

Veterans experiencing homelessness should visit their local VAMC for assistance and to take advantage of the support made possible by this authorization. These life-saving services are available to eligible Veterans who are experiencing homelessness or those participating in the HUD-VASH program.

For immediate assistance contact the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-4AID-VET (877-424-3838).

Learn more about this flexible assistance for homeless Veterans.

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The partnership, originally established in 2003, facilitates health care access and improves patient experience, information technology, resource sharing and will now open the door for these agencies to develop an operational plan to achieve four goals and objectives agreed upon with Tribal stakeholders.

“VA and IHS leadership engaged key tribal stakeholders during 90-day tribal consultation sessions in late 2020 and early 2021 to gain insights and feedback on how both agencies can better serve these historically marginalized patient populations,” said Executive Director of Veterans Health Administration’s Office of Rural Health Thomas F. Klobucar, Ph. D. “Through these collaborative efforts, we will continue to bridge existing gaps and provide equitable care delivery to American Indian and Alaska Native Veterans, and ensure they receive the high-quality care they have earned.”

The four mutual goals of this partnership are to:

• Increase access and improve quality of health care and services for the benefit of eligible AI/AN patients served by VHA and IHS.
• Facilitate enrollment and seamless navigation for eligible AI/AN Veterans in VHA and IHS health care systems.
• Facilitate the integration of electronic health records and other Health Information Technology systems that affect the health care of AI/AN Veterans.
• Improve access for patient populations through resource sharing, including technology, providers, training, human resources, services, facilities, communication and reimbursement.

VA has made major strides for AI/AN Veterans to provide the care they need, including:

• The establishment of reimbursement agreements enabling VHA to reimburse IHS for care that AI/AN Veterans receive at IHS and Tribal Health Program facilities. Since its inception in fiscal year 2012 through the end of FY 2021, nearly $149 million has been provided from VHA to IHS and THPs for the care of nearly 14,000 VA-enrolled AI/AN Veterans.
• The agreement to extend VA Consolidated Mail Outpatient Pharmacy services to VA-enrolled AI/AN Veterans who receive care at IHS clinics. Since its inception in FY 2010 through the end of FY 2021, nearly 6.8 million prescriptions have been processed for VA-IHS Veterans.
• The launch of several successful programs to serve AI/AN Veterans. The Rural Native Veteran Health Care Navigator Program will be a project under this new agreement. Through this program, Health Care Patient Navigators help AI/AN Veterans overcome health care access barriers by coordinating care across VA, VHA, IHS, federally recognized tribes, local communities and other state and federal agencies.

For more information about the VHA-IHS partnership and AI/AN Veterans, please contact the VHA Office of Rural Health at ORHcomms@va.gov or IHS at newsroom@ihs.gov.

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WASHINGTON —  The Department of Veterans Affairs publishes new cybersecurity strategy, Nov. 4, to protect against exposure of Veterans’ personal information or the corruption of critical data.

Veteran data is of great interest to adversaries who seek financial gain and other types of exploitation.

Loss or compromise of information can place Veterans and the department’s mission at risk. To safeguard against fraudulent activities VA developed a strategy outlining a measurable and effective framework enabling the protection and resilience of VA’s most critical business functions and assets.

“As we continue to rapidly advance technology across VA, this strategy provides an agile framework to address the challenges of today and adapt to the technologies and threats of tomorrow,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough. “This comprehensive approach practices accountability and transparency, while remaining hypervigilant of cyber threats — charting a course for success at the individual and enterprise levels.”

The strategy outlines five goals focused on maintaining a robust and resilient technology environment that advances VA’s mission, including:

• Secure and protect VA and Veteran information;
• Protect information systems and assets;
• Leverage innovation to strengthen cybersecurity;
• Enhance cybersecurity through partnerships and information sharing;
• Empower VA mission through cybersecurity risk management.

The Cybersecurity Strategy aligns to and enables the FY18-24 VA Strategic Plan. It takes into consideration existing and new Federal cybersecurity requirements, Executive Orders, technological advancements, innovations and world events that have impacted the way VA delivers services. VA’s Cybersecurity Strategy can be found here 

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If an extension of the current presumptive period was not implemented, service members whose conditions arise after Dec. 31, 2021 would be substantially disadvantaged compared to service members whose conditions manifested at an earlier date.

Limiting entitlement to benefits due to the expiration of the presumptive period would be premature given that current studies remain inconclusive as to the cause and time of onset of illnesses suffered by Persian Gulf War Veterans.

VA presumes certain medically unexplained illnesses are related to Persian Gulf War service without regard to cause, including, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, functional gastrointestinal disorders. Also included are undiagnosed illnesses with symptoms that may include but are not limited to abnormal weight loss, cardiovascular disease, muscle and joint pain, headache, menstrual disorders, neurological and psychological problems, skin conditions, respiratory disorders and sleep disturbances.

Persian Gulf War Veterans who are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above and other unexplained medical issues are encouraged to file a claim.

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The alliance aims to improve care for Veterans diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis — and increase awareness of resources and treatment options available.

ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. While there are no known cures, treatment options can reduce damage caused by the disease, relieve symptoms and improve one’s quality of life. Research shows those who served in the military are more likely to develop ALS than those who have not.

“ALS Association’s continuing education resources give VA health care providers and patients access to educational opportunities,” said VA National Center for Healthcare Advancement and Partnerships Nurse Executive Tracy L. Weistreich, Ph.D. “By promoting local participation in nationwide chapters, we ensure Veterans have greater access to ALS programs and services at VA and in their communities.”

Veterans can also enroll in the National ALS Registry which helps health experts enhance the standards of ALS care and seek a cure.

VA has 11 Treatment Centers of Excellence that exceed nationally accepted standards of care. To be certified, clinics must meet high level of treatment standards, participate in ALS-related research and successfully complete a comprehensive review.

Learn about VA Healthcare Advancement and Partnerships. For caregiving tips for Veterans diagnosed with ALS, visit the VA Caregiver Support Program.

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VETSmile: Connecting Veterans with Dentists in their Communities started early July to help eligible Veterans access free or discounted dental services at pilot sites in New York City and New Jersey through dental care providers at New York University College of Dentistry, Zufall Health Center and Rutgers School of Dental Medicine.

VETSmile is a Community Provider Collaborations for Veterans pilot program authorized under Section 152 of the VA MISSION Act of 2018. It is the pilot program with a waiver request submitted to Congress under this authority.

“VETSmile is an opportunity for us to bridge the gap in Veterans’ access to continuous, accessible and affordable oral care, which is crucial for their overall wellbeing,” said Center for Care and Payment Innovation Acting Executive Director Roshni Ghosh, M.D. “VHA’s Center for Care and Payment Innovation plans to rapidly accelerate efforts to broaden VETSmile dental care partnerships in additional states after implementation at initial sites.”

For eligible Veterans who do not have regular dentists, partnering dental care sites will provide dental care and services. Depending on the community provider, the services offered to eligible Veterans will include:

• Acute emergency dental care.

• Preventive oral care.

• Treatment of oral disease.

• Dental restoration, endodontics and periodontics.

Additionally, dental care partners provide Veterans with oral health education to encourage adoption of routine oral hygiene practices.

VETSmile expects to serve 3,900 Veterans through 9,000 Veteran patient visits in the first year. The numbers are expected to increase as the pilot reaches other geographic locations.

The program will carry on for the next five years and will be assessed for scaling or an extension. Sustained partnerships with the American Dental Association, the National Association of Community Health Centers, and VA Dentistry support the development and success of this pilot.

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VA’s Veterans Health Administration, Veterans Benefit Administration and National Cemetery Administration facilities across the nation will host local 9/11 commemorations the week of Sept. 7, in remembrance of America’s heroes and those tragically lost.

“The events of Sept. 11, 2001 called brave men and women of the armed forces to serve their country and VA will never forget to honor their service and sacrifice,” said VA Secretary Denis McDonough. “Looking back on the past 20 years, I am reminded of the incredible perseverance and strength of our nation — characteristics inspired by the Veterans whom we serve at VA.” 

During commemoration week, VA will share stories of Veterans who answered the call to serve and remember the thousands who sacrificed their life in defense of the nation following the attacks. Personal stories and testimonials will be shared online via VA’s websites and social media platforms.

More than 60 VA national cemeteries will host a National Day of Service Friday, Sept. 10. This will include the opportunity for attendees to participate in headstone cleaning and other activities. Those wishing to volunteer can register with the non-profit Carry The Load National Cemetery Project. NCA also invites individuals to visit its online Veterans Legacy Memorial which hosts individual profiles for all 3.8 million Veterans interred at VA national cemeteries. Visitors to VLM are encouraged to post tributes and photos on a Veteran’s page.

To find local commemorations, contact a nearby VHA medical facility using VA’s Facility Locator. Learn more about other 20th anniversary commemorations throughout the country by visiting the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, Flight 93 National Memorial and National Pentagon Memorial. 

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