Category: VA

Decades after the Vietnam War, West Texas VA is still providing crucial medical care to Veterans suffering from the long-term effects of their wartime injuries. Veterans from all walks of life are ultimately touched by war. Some walk away unscathed, but for others the injuries last a lifetime. For Vietnam Veterans like Andres Rios, the…

The VA application process may be confusing to some, but as a federal agency, VA has a number of different rules and restrictions regarding the hiring process. While we’re always working to improve our response times, we still must follow those rules to ensure a fair opportunity for everyone involved. “We have different guidelines and…

VA understands that life after service is much different than while wearing the uniform. After leaving service, you become less physically active, have different eating habits, have started smoking, or you may have increased stress or other mental health concerns. Unfortunately, these factors play a big role in your risk for developing diabetes. In fact,…

November is a special time for the Caregiver Support Program (CSP) as we celebrate National Family Caregivers Month and honor the dedication of caregivers like you who support Veterans. The Caregiver Support Program understands the challenges of caregiving and is here to provide resources and support. This year’s theme, “Caregiving: Refresh & Renew,” reflects our…

Compassion, empathy and collaboration are important values that guide the work of Gulf Coast VA employees. To honor and promote these values, staff and Veterans across the three-state health care system united on Oct. 15 and walked in solidarity at the 10th Annual Person-Centered Care Walk-a-thon. This year’s theme, “It’s My Honor: Walking Together for…

The Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) is not required to receive VA health care, but it is beneficial to quickly check in for your VA appointments. Please see the notification regarding the VHIC renewal is not a scam: The National Health Eligibility Center (HEC) is in the process of notifying 1.5 million Veterans nationwide that…

When Dak Conrad, a six-year Navy Veteran, discovered a swollen and tender node under her arm, she knew that her life was about to change. Thankfully, her breast cancer was detected early, a fortunate break that spared her from the harsh realities of chemotherapy and radiation. “I was devastated, but because it was caught early,…

James McDonald was born in July 1900, in New Mand, Scotland. At 20, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, a step that would lead to a lifetime of extraordinary service to his adopted country. McDonald served for three years before leaving the service. But in February 1926, he reenlisted to study as a metalsmith and…

Just as our Veterans come from a wide array of backgrounds and experiences, VA’s mental health services adapt to those individual needs. With a plethora of pathways for you to pursue, VA offers unique specializations and unique opportunities to join our team. For example, at South Texas VA, the Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC)…

On a sunny October morning in Houston, hundreds of Veterans stood at attention for the national anthem and the pledge of allegiance during the opening ceremonies of the Houston Stand Down for Veterans.   As the ceremony came to a close, the air was filled with conversation, laughter and anticipation as the Veterans lined up to…

In a new video, VA Whole Health Coach Amanda Swinea and Veterans Darnell Zanders, Linda Toran, Shannon Lightfoot and Dennis Wagner at Indianapolis VA share their experiences with virtual reality (VR) group sessions. Swinea has been conducting group sessions with Veterans for wellness and pain using immersive technology since 2022. During these sessions, Veterans gear…

About 200,000 service members transition to civilian life each year, according to VA’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP). Unemployment and underemployment are a major concern for Veterans and soon-to-be Veterans. VA helps by providing employment resources directly and in partnership with outside organizations that serve Veterans, service members and their families. One of those key partnerships…