MNPVA North Star Bullet - July 2023

Paralyzed Veterans of America

Minnesota Chapter

612-467-2263 office@mnpva.org

Executive Officers

President: Vicky Garrison

Vice President: Tim Valentin

Secretary: Scott Little

Treasurer: Seth Thomas

National Director: Todd Kemery

MS Contact:

Scott Little (952) 200-5715

Leave a message if no answer

Chapter Staff

Lauren Catlin

Executive Assistant

m: 612-699-8551

North Star Bullet

Bridgit Michaud Office Assistant o: 612-726-2263

Directors

Membership: Eric "Scot" Poehler

Fundraising: Karl Olson

Events: John Novicki

Sports & Recreation:

Ron James

Linda Hooker

National Service Officers

Jason Stephenson

Senior Veterans Health & Benefits Specialist

1 Veterans Drive - SCI 141 Minneapolis, MN 55417

612-629-7022

jasonS@pva.org

Tami Anderson

Editor-in-Chief: Vicky Garrison

Associate Editor: Lauren Catlin

Senior National Service Officer

Federal Building Room G915

St. Paul, MN 55111

612-970-5668 | 1-800-795-3609

tamiA@pva.org

Mission

Foundedin1946,theParalyzedVeterans ofAmerica(PVA)isanational organizationdedicatedtoservingformer membersoftheUS ArmedForceswho havesufferedcatastrophicparalysisasa resultofspinalcordinjuryordisease By Publiclaw92-93(1971),theU.S. CongresscharteredPVA

Jim Arndt

Vocational Rehab Program

Federal Building Room G915 St Paul, MN 55111

202-416-6476 | 1-800-795-3609

jamesA@pva.org

Please help us deliver the correct version of the newsletter to you! We understand that some members enjoy receiving the paper version and we are happy to send one. But if you'd prefer to get an electronic copy, please let us know by emailing us at office@mnpva.org or calling us at (612)-467-2263. Electronic distribution of newsletters, saves

President's Post

Vicky Garrison Editorial

Happy birthday to our unique, beautiful, and splendid nation! While we have experienced many ups and downs in the past two centuries, her greatness still prevails because of the remarkable perseverance of her citizens! As we contemplate the meaning of this month's celebration, I hope we let go of petty complaints, accept today, and look at tomorrow with the same determination and hope felt by those who have fought for and maintained our nation's independence!

Not only is this month a celebratory one, but it also signals several important dates for our chapter. NVWG 2023 just wrapped up as this newsletter goes to bed. Congratulations to all our athletes for your hard work and persistence! We also want to say a special thanks to our coaches, volunteers, and family!! Our annual picnic returns and I encourage all of you to attend our summer picnic on August 2nd at Richfield Veterans Park and our fall member meeting on September 26th. These events offer fantastic opportunities to share your ideas and build friendships! If you need transportation, let us know and we'll do everything we can to get you there!

I'd like to point out one more focus that I've set my sight on - and for this, I could genuinely use your help! Our varied membership consists of many active people living life's everyday hustle and bustle. Our membership also consists of veterans who aren't able to be actively involved, including a special group of veterans who are experiencing loneliness and isolation. So this month also marks the start of a new personal goal. Each month, I will schedule days to focus on those in that special group who welcome the opportunity to interact. If this includes you - please call our office and get on the schedule! Please let me know if you'd like to join me on my mission to create some smiles. I believe joy and happiness are always beautiful things to share!

Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance

By Tami Anderson, NSO

Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) is a program of education and training opportunities for eligible dependents and survivors of certain veterans. If training began after August 1, 2018, the educational assistance may not exceed 36 months or the equivalent in part-time training.

Eligibility for Chapter 35 educational benefits are children, a spouse or a surviving spouse of a veteran who died or is permanently and totally disabled as the result of a service-connected disability; or a veteran who died from any cause while such service-connected disability was in existence; or a service member missing in action or captured in the line of duty by a hostile force; or a service member forcibly detained or interned in the line of duty by a foreign government or power; or a service member who is hospitalized or receiving outpatient treatment for a service connected permanent and total disability and is likely to be discharged for that disability.

The period of eligibility for a child usually will begin on the child’s 18th birthday or on successful completion of secondary schooling. Eligibility will generally end on the child’s 26th birthday.There are some instances where the child may be eligible before their 18th birthday and extend past their 26th birthday.

If an individual is on active duty, you cannot receive DEA benefits; however, when you are released from active duty, the VA will restore the months of benefits for that period of training.

The period of eligibility for a spouse is the date the VA concludes you qualify or the date the veteran passed away, and last for 10 years. If the VA rated the veteran permanently and totally disabled with an effective date of 3 years from discharge a spouse will remain eligible for 20 years from the effective date of the rating.The period of eligibility for a surviving spouse ends 20 years from the date of death.

If a spouse gets divorced from the veteran, the eligibility for DEA benefits ends on that date; however, if the spouse is in training, and the divorce occurs through no fault of his/hers, the VA can extend the eligibility to the end of the semester or quarter. (Be sure to notify the VA and the school to verify when they will stop the benefit).

For current rates for all types of training, check www.GIBILL.VA.GOV. The basic monthly rates increase October 1 every year with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) increase. The rates can increase at other times by an act of Congress.

The educational benefit is a monthly payment to assist with the cost of degreed programs, career-training certification programs, apprenticeships, on-the-job training and educational and career counseling.

For more information, please contact Tami Anderson, National Service Officer at 612-970-5668 or Jason Stephenson, Veterans Health & Benefit Specialist at 612-629-7022; or go to the VA website and put in Chapter 35 educational benefits. There is an exceptional pamphlet on the VA Education website, “Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program (DEA)”.

("Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance" continued)

Connect with Us!

We love hearing from our members. If you have a question, a need, or just want to say hi, please reach out. The chapter is you and you are the chapter!

Phone or Voicemail

Office Phone: 612-467-2263

Mobile Phone - Call or Text

Executive Assistant (Lauren) 612-699-8551

President (Vicky) 507-273-5261

Email

Office Assistant: office@mnpva.org

Executive Assistant: laurencatlin@mnpva.org

President: vickygarrison@mnpva.org

Social Media

Facebook Messenger: @MinnesotaPVA

Instagram: pva.mn

In Person

Office Hours: Monday - Wednesday 8a-noon, 1p-4p

Thursday and Friday - 8a - 1:00p

Our office is conveniently located in the VA Minneapolis SCI/D center, across from the PT/OT center.

(Due to current staffing issues, please call ahead to make sure office is open)

Virtual Meetings Available Upon Request

Puzzle Lovers!

Congratulations to our June puzzle winner, William Wilson!

Could you use a $25 Gift Card? Send in a completed copy or a digital picture of your completed puzzles for a chance to win in our regular drawing! One submission per month. Thanks to all for sending in your entries - participation is growing!

Next drawing date: 8/1/2023

All members are invited to join us at our monthly board meetings These meetings are hybrid (both in person and virtual) so you can choose what works for you!

Please call the office at 612-467-2263 for details. We'd love to see you!!

Members Associate Members

Brett Gipson

Ellen Austin

Daniel Becker

Richard Banton

John Murphy

Thank you to all our donors, sponsors, and volunteers!

We need every one of your unique contributions to make MNPVA work. Thank you for your tireless efforts to support SCI/D Veterans!

Volunteer Opportunities

MNPVA can always use volunteers in many different areas such as fundraising committee, event committee, website committee, mailing help, IT assistance or to provide support at events. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer team leader, please contact our office.

Volunteers are love in motion!

-Author Unknown

Election News

Election ballots will be mailed by July 15th. This mailing will include two return envelopes. One will be an “inside” security envelope, marked "ballot envelope" Another will be a postage-paid, pre-addressed return envelope. Follow these steps:

1. 2. 3. 4.

Fill out your ballot with your choices

Place your ballot in the "Ballot Envelope" and seal

Place the ballot envelope in the postage paid envelope provided. All addresses are already on the envelope

Mail your ballot to be postmarked by August 29

Important Notes:

Ballots must be received in the provided return envelope, stamped, and postmarked, if mailed.

Ballot will not be counted if any part of the return address is blacked out. If your address is incorrect, please contact the office right away. Ballots must be postmarked by August 29th.

Chapter fiscal year

Term for Executive Officers

Term for board members

Nomination time frame

Ballots Mailed to the members

Ballots Due in MNPVA Office

October 1- September 30

1 Year

3 Years

June 1 - July 1

By July 15th

Postmarked By August 29

2023 Candidates

President

I feel our chapter is finally waking up after this strange few years we've had. I would be honored to serve as your President another year. We've accomplished great things and with your help, together, we will accomplish much more. Our chapter and the wellbeing of our members remains my number one focus.

Vice-President

Greetings my name is Tim Valentin I'm the current vicepresident of the as well as the Legislative Director. I am seeking re-election to the position of vice-president. As vice-president I will not only do my duties as vicepresident, but I will also continue to do my duties as legislative director. Thank you in advance for all your support and votes have a blessed day.

Secretary

My name is Seth Thomas and I have been active in MNPVA leadership for several years. I would like the opportunity to serve as your Secretary this year, a position I have held in the past. I believe my experience with the chapter, energy, and dedication will be an asset to the chapter.

Treasurer

Hi this is Karl Olson. I have been your fundraising director for the past 4 years. I want to increase my responsibilities and run for the Executive Board as the treasurer. I am currently involved in many areas of this chapter and would to add this to my duties.

Vicky Garrison

Tim Valentin

Seth Thomas

Karl Olson

Bruce Henderson: Candidate for Board Director

Some of you may have met me at base camp, or around the VA, and some not at all Being an Army Veteran, my body has taken a beating, yet I regret nothing. Everything I choose to do, was fun and challenging at the time, but there was a price we paid! I currently work for VHA Central office working with Logistics. I have been fortunate to see about 100 of the other VA’s and understand the importance of the value of our Service organizations After seeing the value of these groups, I have decided to throw my energy into the MN Chapter of PVA After spending some time with Mr Olson and seeing his passion, one can’t want to get involve with this organization. I’ve learned so much I would appreciate the opportunity to serve as a director on the MNPVA board.

Now what about me? I am married to my beautiful and incredible wife. I have tortured her for around 31 years but married for 27 years. What do I mean by tortured? She has basically raised our children and now our Granddaughter. She is one my Tasmanian Devil for health care. She holds the doctors accountable and still has time to make sure all her family is connected. I would not be involved with PVA if not for her fighting for the rights of veterans and a driving force for my care. I am blessed, not sure blessed is the right word, but I have my four children (all Girls, hence the hair loss). They are all grown now and starting lives of their own. Each of them have stayed here in MN so I get to see them all the time, hence blessed! My joy now is having our GrandDaughter (I refer to her as my GrandMonster) is what takes my time now. She lives with us during the week so never a dull moment! She turns 6 on August 15th. Having her her has been so valuable, well I say valuable as she is one of my greatest caregivers, so empathic and caring. Two traits I believe will serve her wellI have dealt with neuropathy for about 20 years now and just started working with the amazing folks in SCI at the MPLS VA. This group started the movement of care for me! That got me involved with PVA, and the opportunities they provide. I want to be part of the greatness they offer.

WHEN Wed, August 2nd TIME Serving 11am-2pm

WHERE Richfield Veterans Park 6335 Portland Ave, Richfield

WHO PVA Members, family & caregivers

VA SCI Staff

We hope you are as excited as we are to see the return of our annual picnic. This year we have an alternate location due to the construction at the VA SCI parking lot. Call us at 612-467-2263 to let us know you're coming - we'll save a spot for you!

While RSVP is not required and we'll welcome you with open arms if you forget, getting a better estimate of attendees helps us not waste food and resources. If you can, please RSVP at 612-467-2263 or office@mnpva.org.

Calendar at a Glance

July 4-9 National Veterans Wheelchair Games

July 18 Board meeting

Aug 2 Summer Picnic

Aug 15 Board meeting

Aug 27- Sep 2 Midwest fishing Event

Aug 28 Election Ballots Due

Sept 16 Metro Fun Shoot - Open to the Public

Sept 26 Fall Member Meeting

MNPVA Members Sports Tickets

Upcoming Twins Game Drawings

Includes two accessible great seats. Save your parking, snack, and non-alcoholic beverage receipts to request reimbursement from us. Bring a family member, friend or caregiver for the second seat! For ticket recipients who want to say thanks, share a photo with us!

Interested members should contact our Sports/Rec Director, Ron James or call the office at 612-467-2263

Karl's Scuba Adventure

Thanks to Big Tim Valentin and Dive Pirates, I was selected to receive a scholarship for scuba diving. Dive Pirates Foundation is a non-profit out of Texas that helps people with a physical disability find a new world to explore without needing their legs. The scholarship pays for you and your dive buddy to be certified, equipped, and take you on the dive trip of a lifetime. My diving buddy is my son Jake. We finished our certification and were sent to be part of a group of about 85 people to scuba dive in the Cayman Islands.

We had all types of physical disabilities, stroke, paraplegic, quad, MS, amputee, etc. It wasn’t just for vets, it was for anyone with a physical handicap.

We saw so many amazing sights, fish, a shipwreck, coral, and rays. I think at my favorite dive, we had about 10 of us laying on the bottom in an arch. We watched a stingray hunt and capture mollusks under the sand.

I cannot say enough about how much I enjoyed myself on this trip. This was easily the most fun vacation that I have been on. My son Jake and I are already making plans to do this again next year.

If you have any interest at all in doing this type of activity, I highly recommend it, you will not be disappointed.

We're so proud of our athletes and coaches!

Novice

Sandi Braunstein

Joseph Mauricio

Mark Pocernich

Iola Johnson-Lewis

Returning Athletes

Kenneth Brookins

Hank Ebert

Doug Eckhoff

Matthew Kurzhals

Scotty Poehler

Michael Raphael

Rob York

At Home Athletes

Linda Hooker

Karl Olson

Jeff Edwards

Mark Stulz

Coaches

Janelle Gustafson

Susan Miller

Tad Nielsen

Luanne Walsh

A special thank you to our team coaches! We appreciate the dedication, skill, and focus you bring! Job well done!

2023 2023 2023 NVWG NVWG NVWG

CONGRATULATIONS! CONGRATULATIONS! CONGRATULATIONS!

Minnesota Medalists Minnesota Medalists Minnesota Medalists

Sandi Braunstein - Silver in Swimming and Softball

Joseph Mauricio - Silver in Archery, Bronze in Swimming

Mark Pocernich - Gold in Archery

Novices Masters

Doug Eckhoff - Gold in Air Pistol, Silver in Air Rifle, Discus and Trap Shoot*

Jeffery Edwards - Silver in Cycling*

Linda Hooker - Silver in Bowling*

Matthew Kurzhals - Silver in Javelin, Shot Put, and Nine Ball

Karl Olson - Gold in Bowling* and Trap Shoot*

Robert York - Gold in Shot Put, Silver in Softball

Kenneth Brookins - Bronze in Slalom

Seniors

Hank Ebert - Gold in Trap Shoot*, silver in Archery, Bronze in Javelin and Shot Put

Scotty Poehler - Gold in Javelin, Silver in Shot Put and Trap Shoot*, Bronze in Archery and Discus

*Indicates At-Home Event

MNPVA BOWLING

Our chapter continues to support active bowling groups that meet weekly. All skill levels are welcome, and no commitment is required. Bowling once a week has many benefits for both the body and mind. Current locations include:

Thursdays at 11am

McPete's Sports Bar & Lanes

590 Humboldt Dr Big Lake, MN

Fridays at 11:30am

Split Rocks Bowling

5063 273rd St

Wyoming, MN 55092

On Break for the Summer

St. Croix Lanes

1153 St Croix St, River Falls, WI

If you're near - let us know

As we grow our bowling groups, we have many ideas for events, competitions, and gatherings. Our chapter's own famous "Minnesota" Bowling ramps are available for those desiring to bowl regularly

We are looking into starting a new group in the Mora area! Please contact the office if you’re interested in helping the group get started by volunteering or participating.

Please contact the office at 612-467-2263 if you’re interested in joining and if there isn’t a local group, we can help get the word out to form one.

PVA Virtual Events

information go to: https://pva.org/adaptive-sports/online-events

Adaptive Yoga

For

Nutrition Classes

Fitness Training

2023 Summer VA Outpatient Recreation Therapy Programs

Please RSVP to Recreation Therapy Staff if interested in these opportunities as the pro- grams have limited space and need to be signed up for! If attending, please screen yourself for covid-19 prior to participating in any outpatient group!

Jenna Stade: 612-258-9073 or Joleen Peterson: 612-946-2519

Adaptive Kayaking:

Clinics will be from 9:30am – 11:30am Various Three Rivers Park District Locations

Once Signed Up you will receive more details on locations.

• Friday, July 14th

• Friday, July 28th

• Friday, August 11th

• Friday, August 25th

• Friday, September 8th

• Friday, September 22nd

PGA Golf:

Clinics will be from 9:00am-11:00am

Lost Spur Golf Course

2750 Sibley Memorial Hwy Eagan, MN 55121

• Monday, June 12th August 21st

Project Healing Waters

Fly-fishing education, fly casting, fly tying and rod building

To learn more contact: David.Winkler@projecthealingwaters.org

Adaptive Cycling Clinic:

All clinics will be from 1:00pm-4:00pm

• Tuesday, July 11th (Location TBD)

• Tuesday, August 8th(Location TBD)

2023 Minneapolis Veterans

Creative Arts Competition

See flyer for details

Member Action Item Home Health Care Shortage

Thank you for all who have responded to our call for action! If you haven't yet shared, please help us gather the ammunition we need to enact change! Home caregivers are ESSENTIAL to us!

Direct stories from our veterans function as a driving force to help inform and advocate for change and improvement in the vital area. If you have authorized home health care and are experiencing difficulty filling the hours due to staffing shortages or have recently experienced staffing difficulties, please get in touch with a member of the MNPVA Advocacy Legislative team or call the office.

Share your story today!

Vicky: vickygarrison@mnpva.org

Tim: timvalentin@mnpva.org

Todd: toddkemery@mnpva.org

Office: 612-467-2263

Research Corner

Opportunities for Participation in Research

This the place to learn about ongoing research in our community. These important studies focus on improving your quality of life as a person living with a spinal cord injury or disease. Details are included for each study pertaining to contact information, inclusion criteria and status. MNPVA encourages you to read through these opportunities, reach out the researchers for questions, and consult with your own physician to see if they are a good fit for you. We truly appreciate the critical work these awesome local researchers are doing in the field of SCI/D!

Title: A Clinical Trial of Cognitive Multisensory Rehabilitation for Sensory and Motor Recovery in Adults with Spinal Cord Injury

ACTIVELY RECRUITING

The aim of this study is to evaluate two different interventions to improve sensation and movement in adults with spinal cord injury. Any Veteran with a SCI/D who is at least 3 months out (no end date limit) from a spinal cord injury, can self-transfer and some reduction of sensation and/or movement after their spinal cord injury

Interventions: Either you will receive physical therapy, called "cognitive multisensory rehabilitation" (focusing on restoring body awareness during movements) or you will receive a membership for the adaptive fitness at Courage Kenny (Golden Valley) to train there with the adapted fitness equipment.

Testing: MRI of the brain (before and after the interventions); test of sensation and movements + questionnaires (before and after the interventions + 3 months after the intervention

Contact information:

Dr. Ann Van de Winckel: avandewi@umn.edu or 612-406-2500

RESEARCH STUDY

on how to improve sensation and movement after a spinal cord injury...

Do you want to find out?

The Brain Body Mind Lab is recruiting participants with complete or incomplete spinal cord injury to compare the effect of Remotely-delivered Cognitive Multisensory Rehabilitation versus Remotely-delivered Exercise to improve sensation and movement after a spinal cord injury.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

•Be18-75yearsofage

•Beabletohearandcomprehend theEnglishinstructionsgiveninthestudy

•Haveacompleteorincompletespinal cord injury(>1year)

•Beabletoself-transferwithsome assistanceandpushacall button

•Haveanavailablecare-partnertoassist withtheinterventions

•Notbepregnant

•BemedicallystableandnoMRI contraindicationsParticipantswill:

•Eitherreceive12weeksofphysical therapywithRemotely-delivered Cognitive Multisensory Rehabilitation OR Remotely-delivered exercise, 3x/week, 45min/sessionfor12weeks

•Have2MRI scansofthebrain+3clinical assessments

•Fill inquestionnairesrelatedtofunction, qualityoflife, andbodyawareness

FIND OUT MORE

Dr. Ann Van de Winckel, PhD, MSPT, PT avandewi@umn.edu (preferred) 612-406-2500 or 612-625-1191

"This is not VA research. It will not be conducted by VA, has not been reviewed by VA's Institutional Review Board, and is not endorsed by VA VA is not responsible for any costs incurred by a Veteran if the Veteran enters the study as a research subject. The announcement is being provided for information only " - expiration date 10/16/2024

Researchers at the University of Minnesota (UMN) are conducting an anonymous online survey to gather information about individuals living with spinal cord injury (SCI) who have used psychedelic drugs after their SCI. Participation involves completing an online survey. This survey will take about 20-40 minutes to complete, depending on how you respond.

https://tinyurl.com/SCI-Injury-survey

Bone as Regulator of Energy Balance and Male Fertility after SCI: A Pilot Study

University of Minnesota researchers are seeking participants with or without a spinal cord injury for a clinical trial. We are interested in how bone health affects insulin sensitivity and sperm health in adult males with spinal cord injuries Participation in the research will take approximately 5 hours over 3-4 visits. Compensation of $200 will be provided for participation.

Investigator: Dr. Leslie Morse, morsel@umn.edu, 612-301-3072

Coordinator: Liza Nowlin, rehablab@umn.edu, 612-301-3072

Have an Unused Vehicle?

Consider supporting PVA by donating your unused vehicle! For wheelchair accessible vehicles, contact us at the MNPVA office at 612-467-2263. Your vehicle will be matched with one of our veterans in need of accessible transportation.

For all other vehicles, go to pva.careasy.org/home. Donations through National PVA also benefit our chapter. Support

Washington Update

status, and tie any future increases to the same index VA uses for its other home modification programs.

On June 21, the House Veterans’ Affairs (HVAC), Health Subcommittee held a hearing examining several veterans’ health-related bills. PVA submitted our views on the legislation in a statement for the record. The bills considered by the panel included H.R. 2818, the Autonomy for Disabled Veterans Act, which would make much needed improvements to VA’s Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) grant program. Improving the HISA program is a PVA priority. Currently, the lifetime HISA benefit is worth up to $6,800 for veterans who need a housing modification due to a service-connected condition. Veterans who rate 50 percent service-connected may receive the same amount even if a modification is needed due to a nonservice-connected disability. Veterans who are not service-connected but are enrolled in the VA health care system can receive up to $2,000. These rates have not changed since 2010 even though the cost of home modifications and labor has risen at least 50 percent during the same timeframe. The Autonomy for Disabled Veterans Act seeks to raise rates to $10,000 and $5,000 (respectively), and ties the new baseline rate to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in an effort to keep rates relevant in future years. PVA indicated its support for the legislation, but stated that it could be made even better by adjusting the text to provide a single rate of $10,000 for all veterans, regardless of their disability

PVA also expressed support for another priority, H.R. 1815, the Expanding Veterans’ Options for Long Term Care Act, which would test VA’s ability to pay for veterans’ care at assisted living facilities. Currently, the VA can refer veterans to these facilities, but it cannot directly pay for that care. The Expanding Veterans' Options for Long Term Care Act would create a threeyear pilot program at six VISNs, including at least two program sites in rural areas and two in state veterans homes to test the benefit of having VA pay for this care. Veterans eligible for the pilot would include those already receiving nursing home-level care paid for by the VA and those who are eligible to receive assisted living services or nursing home care. At the conclusion of the pilot program, participating veterans would be given the option to continue receiving assisted living services at their facility, paid for by the VA. PVA believes this legislation would help veterans and the VA alike by giving greater access to assisted living and reducing costs for long-term care, allowing more veterans to receive needed assistance.

Another bill before the Subcommittee would increase the mileage reimbursement rate available to beneficiaries for travel to or from VA facilities in connection with vocational rehabilitation; required counseling; or for the purpose of examination, treatment, or care. H.R. 1278, the Drive Act, would make

the reimbursement rate for such travel equal to or greater than the mileage reimbursement rate for government employees using private vehicles when no government vehicle is available. Government employees’ travel rates are adjusted annually but reimbursement rates for veterans are not. Under current regulations, VA reimburses veterans when traveling for a VA health care appointment at a rate of 41.5 cents per mile, which is far less than what government employees receive. PVA endorsed this bill because veterans should benefit from the higher reimbursement rate. The complete list of bills reviewed by the Subcommittee and a video of the hearing can be found here

SVAC HOLDS HEARING ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF VA’S OFFICE OF INTEGRATED VETERAN CARE

On June 21, the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC) held a hearing on Examining the Effectiveness of VA’s Office of Integrated Veteran Care. The hearing was convened to examine how VA is ensuring veterans have access to the best care in a timely manner, whether in the VA or the private sector. Under Secretary for Health Dr. Shereef M. Elnahal delivered VA’s testimony. Dr. Elnahal noted the VA Secretary has set a goal to provide more care and more benefits to more veterans than ever before. To meet this goal and fully implement the Honoring our PACT Act of 2022 (P.L. 117-168), he indicated VA must continue to increase access to care, whether that be through VA medical facilities or through care in the community.

In 2021, the VA realigned the Office of Community Care and the Office of Veterans Access to Care, establishing the Office of Integrated Veteran Care (IVC), which provides oversight for the completion and implementation of the integrated access and care coordination model. SVAC Ranking Member Jerry Moran (R-KS) stated that while the consolidation of the two offices was to improve veterans timely access to VA or community care, veterans are still encountering problems with scheduling appointments. According to VA’s written testimony, IVC is continuing efforts to simplify the process for a provider to refer a veteran to another provider. The Referral Coordination Initiative

aims to ensure veterans have comprehensive information about their care options when scheduling takes place as a result of these referrals. Referral coordination teams include local staff with administrative and clinical expertise who talk to veterans about their available care options with a VA provider, in-person or virtually, or when eligible, through the Veterans Community Care Program. VA said the Department is rolling out a multi-year comprehensive roadmap designed to guide the efforts to modernize their scheduling systems. All major stakeholders and efforts that impact direct care, virtual care, community care, and veteran self-scheduling have been integral in creating a single vision, business case, and roadmap for scheduling.

VA indicated they are taking two paths to provide their schedulers with better tools to simplify the scheduling process for veteran appointments. The first piece of their scheduling modernization roadmap involves making enhancements to their internal scheduling system to provide schedulers visibility to all appointment availability for a particular provider, across locations, for both in-person and virtual appointments. With these improvements, including increased visibility into provider schedules, their schedulers will be able to schedule across VA locations. Another update will be an automated community care eligibility calculator, which will eliminate the need for schedulers to manually calculate whether VA can schedule an appointment within the designated access standards.

SVAC Chair Jon Tester (D-MT) concluded the hearing by stating VA must ensure the Department is spending taxpayers’ dollars appropriately and that the Committee would continue to perform oversight to verify that the VA is indeed doing so. You can watch a video of the hearing here

SENATE MILCON/VA BILL APPROVED IN COMMITTEE

The Senate Appropriations Committee recently approved its version of the fiscal year (FY) 2024 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, (MILCON/VA) and Related Agencies Act. The measure seeks to provide $135.3 billion in discretionary funding and $161.7 billion

in mandatory funding for the VA. Those rates differ somewhat from the $138.6 billion and $152 billion that their counterparts in the House agreed to, but these differences are not believed to be insurmountable. Like the House bill, it also provides advance appropriations for veterans in FY 2025, including $112.6 billion for veterans’ medical care and $193 billion for veterans benefits.

The Senate bill seeks $2.4 billion, or $556 million more than FY 2023 to help VA implement its Caregiver Program and extend legacy participant eligibility and benefits through 2025. It also allocates $1.3 billion for gender-specific health care services, as well as initiatives and improvements to health care facilities.

Both the House and Senate bills must still be approved by their respective chambers. Voting on the measures is expected to occur before the August recess. If those efforts are successful, a special conference committee would then be established to work out any differences and come up with a single bill both chambers can agree to.

NEWS OF NOTE

75th Anniversary of the Military Women’s Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery

On June 12, the Military Women’s Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery celebrated the 75th anniversary of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, the law that allowed women to serve in the military. PVA’s own National Vice President Tammy Jones and National Vice President-Elect Anne Robinson attended the ceremony. They were joined by Cheryl Vines, Director of Research and Education.

In support of Women Veteran’s Day, Vice President Jones and Vice President-Elect Robinson spent a day on Capitol Hill meeting with several members of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee (HVAC). Specifically, they met with HVAC Health Subcommittee Chair and Army Veteran, Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), HVAC Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee Chair and Navy Veteran, Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA), as well as Rep. Nikki Budzinski (D-IL) and staff for HVAC Health

Subcommittee Ranking Member Julia Brownley (D-CA)

During their meetings, Vice President Jones and Vice President-Elect Robinson discussed access to genderspecific health care, as well as the PVA-supported Elizabeth Dole Home Care Act.

SAH Grant Program Reaches Key Milestone

The Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grant program was established on June 19, 1948, by the Veterans Administration to provide support to paraplegic veterans returning home from war, in adapting their homes to meet their unique needs. The passage of this important home modification grant was one of PVA’s earliest legislative victories. Over the years, we’ve worked continuously to ensure the benefit reflects the evolving needs and life changes that may arise for disabled veterans with the greatest support needs and their families. Our most recent effort, in 2020, increased the grant’s overall value as well as the number of times a veteran could tap into the financial resources provided by the grant. Capped at $10,000 when it was created, today’s grant rate of $109,986 means the program is better equipped to meet the needs of veterans who use the grant to modify their homes. For 75 years, the SAH grant program has existed to provide a better quality of home life for the most severely disabled veterans and we will continue to ensure it does so for 75 more.

Preliminary Recommendations on Passengers with Disabilities Finalized for TSA Administrator Report

On June 15, Senior Associate Advocacy Director Lee Page participated in the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Aviation Security Advisory Committee (ASAC), ASAC Passengers with Disabilities Working Group. The purpose of the working group is to bring government and industry stakeholders to the table to identify ways to improve the experience of passengers with disabilities. The all-day meeting included presentations about TSA’s interaction with the public, getting through security, assistance for passengers with disabilities, and the TSA Cares and Passenger Support Specialist personnel program. The advisory committed finalized their recommendations for the TSA Administrator, which will be published later this year.

PACT Act Filing Deadline Approaching

It has been more than 10 months since the Honoring our PACT Act of 2022 (P.L. 117-168) was signed into law, expanding VA health care and benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. Among many things, the bill increased the list of health conditions presumed to be caused by exposure to these substances, ensuring multiple generations of veterans and their survivors can receive the care and benefits they’ve earned and deserve. As a reminder, veterans who believe they qualify for PACT Act benefits must submit their benefit claims by August 10, 2023, in order to receive a whole year’s worth of retroactive benefits. Applications submitted after this date will not be provided back pay. Contact your PVA service officer or visit www.va.gov/PACT for more information.

Adding A Caregiver to Your Tricare Express Scripts Account

If you receive prescriptions through the TRICARE Pharmacy Program, you are allowed to add authorized caregivers to your Express Scripts online account. This allows them to order or cancel your prescriptions, manage shipping and payment information, and answer Express Scripts’ questions about orders on your behalf. Click here to learn more.

HEARINGS AND WEBINARS

PVA’s Advocacy Webinar Series

This April kicked off the first of a five-part webinar series on advocacy hosted by PVA. So far, the topics covered range from the basic fundamentals of government; a holistic view of the legislative process; and most recently, understanding the issues and becoming a change agent. Our last two webinars in the series, who is advocating and who with, and the art of advocacy, are scheduled for late July and August. We encourage all of you to join in and get involved. Advocacy is an essential tool that allows individuals to use their voice to promote change and advocate for their rights. By speaking up and sharing your experience, you can raise awareness about important issues and influence policies that affect lives.

Your story is important. We hope that our webinar series will help you in that journey. Please contact Lisa Elijah, PVA’s Grassroots Advocacy Manager, at LisaE@PVA.org for more information

Upcoming Veterans’ Committee Activities

Please visit the House and Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee webpages for information on upcoming hearings and markups.

You can support a Veteran through a crisis Keep these tips in mind when talking with a Veteran who may be at risk for suicide:

•Remain calm

•Listen more than you speak

•Maintain eye contact

•Act with confidence

•Do not argue

•Use open body language

•Limit questions Let the Veteran do the talking

•Use supportive, encouraging comments

•Be honest There are no quick solutions, but help is available

VA S.A.V.E. Training Supporting Our

What is VA S.A.V.E. Training?

VA S.A.V.E. Training will help you act with care and compassion if you encounter a Veteran who is in crisis or experiencing suicidal thoughts. The acronym S.A.V.E. helps you remember the important steps involved in suicide prevention:

Additional Resources

VA Mental Health Services: Get information about inpatient and outpatient services available through VA at www.mentalhealth.va.gov

Online Resource Locator: Find VA facilities, Vet Centers, suicide prevention coordinators, and other VA resources atwww.VeteransCrisisLine.net/ ResourceLocator

Make the Connection: Veterans and their loved ones can find out how to connect with VA resources at www.MakeTheConnection.net.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Program: Locate the VA PTSD program nearest you at www.ptsd.va.gov.

Samanth Wicks

David Stopke

Curtis Schultz

Thomas Boland

Thomas Moran

David Hallis

Jesse Gonzales

Robert Mickelson

John Longley

Bruce Henderson

Thomas Riewer

Ralph Biederman

Harold Duffield

Richard Cram

July July

Members

William Schiebler

Earnest Erickson

John Schnieder

Scott Buchan

John Haw

Thomas Tucek

Donald Demuth

Kris Hallis

Michael Lewis

Cynthia Fjerstad

Robert Armstong

Doug Lindman

Doris Lent

August August

John Lewerke

Gerald Bremer

Ted Naspinski

Donald Meyer

Brian Warzecha

Brandon Price

Dale Dordal

Richard Anderson

Daryl Rudquist

Paul Hanks

Charles Myers

Michael Fosnot

Rober Melberg

John Albert

Richard Docksteader

Donald Simons

David Anderson

David Pedersen

Aaron Hilde

Members

Patricia Schaniel

John Jensen

Karlyle Brings Plenty

Todd Kemery

David Larson

Scott White

Cooper Tenney

Philip Rolfe

Nicholis Martin

David Globe

David Williams

Francis Augustson

Jacob Olson

Mallory Young

Solaida Reckinger

Naomi Lorence

Shawna Lasiuk

Steven Hallis

Timothy Jones

North Star Bullet

Please help us keep our membership list up to date. Contact the office if you have recently moved, updated your phone number, or email address. This ensures our ability to pass on the latest news to our members. Remember, any updates you may make with the VA are not shared with us.