Veterans' Healthy Living, Spring 2013
Dear Veterans
A Message from the Network Director
Michael F. Mayo-Smith, M.D., M.P.H.
Network Director
Spring is a time for growth, change, and sometimes new opportunities. VA has an abundance of opportunities that could meet your changing needs this season. Go online or ask a provider at your closest facility about all the programs and benefits VA has to offer.
On page 3 of this issue of Veterans’ Healthy Living, you will find the captivating story of how WWII Veteran Alfred "Freddy" Pouliot went from shaking hands with General Eisenhower to being mistaken for a German spy to celebrating armistice with Russian soldiers. After returning home, Mr. Pouliot went on to serve Veterans at the Manchester facility for 33 years.
Also on page 3, you will find Overcoming Misconceptions, which discusses a few common misconceptions of Veterans who are not enrolled for VA health care services.
On pages 4 and 5, you will read how the VA has established sharing agreements with the Indian Health Services (IHS) of the 10 Native American tribes in VISN 1. The agreements provide reimbursement to IHS for eligible Native American Veterans, which allows for health care closer to home.
With the number of women Veterans rapidly increasing (expected to exceed two million by 2020), VA has expanded research to meet their specific needs. Go to page 6 and read VA Increases Research on Women’s Health Issues to learn more.
What's new at the White River Junction VAMC, Togus VAMC, Providence VAMC, Manchester VAMC, Bedford VAMC, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, or VA Boston Healthcare System? Check out page 7 and see! You might be interested in the new services, programs, technology, or volunteer opportunities in your area.
Thank you for your service. Now let us serve you!
Michael F. Mayo-Smith, M.D., M.P.H.
Network Director
