The sharing of any non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products and services on the part of VA. Veterans should verify the information with the organization offering. We’ve curated an assortment of events that aim to assist, educate and enrich Veterans and their families. Each week, we’ll continue to post relevant and timely…
Category: VA
Current Veterans Administration (VA) news and information
VA honors women Veterans
Since the Revolutionary War, more than 3 million women have served and sacrificed in times of war, even before the military fully recognized their service. Women have continued to play crucial roles in the defense of the United States in each conflict. It wasn’t until 1948 when President Harry S. Truman signed into law the…
Live Whole Health #214: Strawberry salad, berry goodness
Strawberries aren’t just tasty, they’re packed with goodness that can benefit your health! These bright red berries are loaded with vitamin C, which helps keep your immune system strong and your skin healthy. They’re also rich in antioxidants, like anthocyanins and ellagic acid, which can help protect your body from damage caused by harmful free…
VA dietitians: Food and nutrition experts
Who is a dietitian? A dietitian is a health care professional who is an expert in food and nutrition. Dietitians have specialized training to provide nutrition education and counseling to people who want to improve their health. Dietitians are also referred to as registered dietitian nutritionists (RDN) or registered dietitians (RD). What do dietitians do? …
Jeff Bates: Crisis line psychologist and Army captain’s career of service
Jeff Bates is a psychologist, the director of Crisis Operations at the Veterans Crisis Line and now a captain in the Army Reserve. He hails from a family with military history, including two grandfathers who served in World War II. That history influences his thoughts on joining the Reserve: “This decision is one that impacts…
Bay Pines Fisher House receives $100K donation from 84 Lumber
Bay Pines VA accepted a $100K donation from 84 Lumber during the lumber company’s official grand opening of a new store in Palmetto, Florida, in February. The donation is the largest single gift for the Bay Pines Fisher House in 20 years. “We are humbled by the generosity of 84 Lumber and honored to be…
Exploring Rural VA Communities: Muskogee, Oklahoma
At VA, we work to meet all our Veterans where they need us. Since more than 4.7 million Veterans return from active military careers to reside in rural communities, we need talented, dedicated professionals in these areas. We’re looking for people who understand our mission and want to embrace the slower pace and small-town feel. There…
Celebrating Health Professions Education Week
Last week, March 11-15, health professions trainees, Veterans and clinical staff in VA medical centers across the country took time to celebrate Health Professions Education (HPE) Week through special events and award ceremonies. HPE Week is an annual campaign to recognize the contributions of VA faculty, health professions trainees, clinical educators, academic partners and Veterans…
VetServe 2024: Join VA in supporting a National Day of Service, April 24
Each year, VA joins the Nation to observe and celebrate National Volunteer Week, April 21 – 27, 2024. As part of National Volunteer Week, VA invites everyone in the community to explore ways to give back to Veterans any time of the year. Serving in your community and volunteering are powerful ways to make a positive…
Jackson VA first in Mississippi to implant high tech heart pacemaker
G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA in Jackson, Miss. recently became the first hospital in Mississippi to implant a Biotronik Amvia cRTP (pacemaker), marking a significant advancement in patient care. A pacemaker monitors the heart’s rhythm, detects irregularities and corrects them with electrical impulses. This particular device differs from other implantable pacemakers in that it helps the heart’s…
Gerofit keeps older Veterans active through personalized wellness
Around half of America’s Veterans are 65 years or older, meaning VA serves an increasingly aging population of Veterans. Physically active older adults are less likely to experience falls and related injuries. However, over 80% of Veterans who are age 65 years and older are not regularly physically active. VA strives to reduce health disparities…
VA offering updated COVID-19 vaccines
VA is offering updated COVID-19 vaccines for the 2023-2024 season, including an additional dose for people 65 years and older. The updated vaccines target more recent COVID-19 strains. Due to changes in the virus, it is important to get the updated vaccine. Updated vaccines are available free of charge to VA health care employees and…
