VA New England Healthcare System

VA Brings Traveling Benefits to The Big E

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In September, well over one million New Englanders flocked to West Springfield, MA, to take part in “The Big E,” the largest fair in the Northeast. Although many came to the extravaganza for the entertainment, attractions, and parades, the VA New England Healthcare System was there for a very important cause—to educate and get Veterans enrolled into VA healthcare.

Katy Americo talks VA healthcare with a Veteran

Mike McNamara, Outreach Program Manager for the VA New England Healthcare System, reported that 106 Veterans were enrolled during The Big E, while more mail-in enrollments will continue to come in. But the VA did much more than that. “This year we had over 60 healthcare professionals from across VISN 1 working, plus on-site mobile Vet Centers from Springfield,MA, and White River Junction, VT,” he said. “There were representatives from every facility and all facets of VA to include OEF/OIF, Women Vets, Minority Vets, and Homeless Vets coordinators.” Employees were available to assist Veterans with enrolling in My HealtheVet, and the VA even provided flu shots to enrolled Veterans—right on the spot.

“We’ve increased our participation each year, and we are now the official sponsor of The Big E’s Military Appreciation Day [opening day],” said McNamara. The Veterans parade was even lead by the VA New England Healthcare System.

Dr. Glen Gechlik, VISN 1, passes out American Flags during the parade

McNamara and the team are reaching out to all Veterans to make them aware of the great healthcare benefits availablethrough the VA. Many Veterans use other health insurance and don’t use the VA because they believe that they are allowing others who are more needy or injured are more “deserving” of benefits to get assistance. Yet when more Veterans use the system, more money is given to VA for additional programs to assist additional Veterans. Through outreach events like The Big E, the VA is encouraging all Veterans to use the benefits they have rightfully earned. McNamara said, “On September 14 alone, we spoke to more than 600 Veterans and their families. We distributed dozens of 10-10EZ enrollment forms, which will be mailed into our facilities over the next couple of months.”

To find out if you’re eligible for VA healthcare, visit your local VA medical facility or call 1-866-825-1465.

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