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Veterans' News From VFW Post 516

Farmingdale Observer - 4/19/2017

VFW Applauds Choice Program Extension and Improvement: Congress passed S. 544, which would authorize VA to use the $10 billionCongress intended to go toward providing veterans care in their communities when they are not able to receive timely access to care at VA health care facilities. S. 544 would also improve the Choice Program by addressing two issues the VFW has identified and asked Congress to fix. "While this bill is an important step, Congress still has a long way to go," said VFW National Commander Brian Duffy. "Congress must still act on a permanent replacement for the Choice Program, one that consolidates VS's community care authorities, as well as integrates the best aspects of the VA system with available health care capabilities in the community, both public and private. Congress must also act on legislation to improve VA's ability to construct and lease facilities; hire, retain and discipline employees; and improve its health processes and systems to ensure veterans have timely access to high quality care," he explained.

VFW and PatientsLikeMe Join

for Mental Health Awareness: The VFW is proud to have teamed up with PatientsLikeMe to raise awareness, improve research and provide intervention for veterans, service members and their loved ones who may be suffering from mental health injuries. The VFW National Commander Brian Duffy calls on VFW members and supporters to join the mental wellness fight and harness the synergy of our combined voices by sharing experiences and contributing to research that makes a difference in the lives of those suffering from mental health injuries.

VFW Testifies on Veterans Legislation: VFW Associate Director Patrick Murray testified before the House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs on seven bills being considered by the subcommittee. The VFW supported all seven bills discussed, in particular the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act, which would expand Agent Orange related presumptive conditions to Blue Water Navy Veterans; The American Heroes Cola Act, which would add an automatic trigger for annual COLA increases; and the Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act, which would require VA to accept private medical evidence when veterans submit disability compensation claims.

Hearing on VA Home Loan Appraisers: The House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity held a hearing on ways to improve the VA's Home Loan Appraisers Program for the 21st century. The VA home loan program is a widely touted benefit that has helped countless veterans since its inception. VA home appraisers work tirelessly to help safeguard our veterans in making sure the homes they purchase are valued at the correct market price. When asked how to improve the program, especially in isolated and rural areas, VA and independent home loan appraisers said to hire more appraisers or contact out to local agents.

VA Urges Female Participation in Million Veteran Program: The Million Veteran Program is a voluntary research program led by the Department of Veterans Affairs to develop a better understanding of how genetics affect overall health. Veterans who use VA facilities are welcome to participate in the study. This data is stored anonymously and is used for research in areas such as cancer and post-traumatic stress disorder. The study is currently lacking female veteran participants, and VA is urging women to help.

For more information on VFW and how to join, call Bob Fullam at 516-694-5539 or email vfwbob516@aol.com.