VETERANS CHRONICLE
AUGUST 2025
LOOK INSIDE FOR
Inland Northwest
healthcare options
Accessing your benefits
New Spokane Valley VA clinic
5 VA health care myths debunked
VETERANS CHRONICLE
“I have my family back” Veteran finds support, strength in sobriety
Jeff found himself on the street, asleep under a bridge with a 40-ounce bottle of beer.
He had gone through a divorce; lost his kids — and his job.
“There were times where I felt totally abandoned,” he says. “I had been a family man all my life.”
As a member of the U.S. Air Force police, Jeff helped guard airplanes. He had always been a partier, but after losing the most important thing in his life — his family — drinking changed from something social into a way to forget how his life had turned out.
“When I got on the streets and thought everything was lost, [alcohol] became my way out,” says Jeff.
When he decided that enough was enough, Jeff went to his local VA.
“When I got in there, I went through the program,” he says. “I was gonna be steadfast. I was gonna stand strong. And I fell down. I started drinking again. I ended up back on the streets.”
Through these setbacks, Jeff persevered. He reached out for support once again — and this time, he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and anxiety. He entered a high-intensity, yearlong rehab program.
“They really take interest in you, and
they really are concerned about what you’re about to go through,” Jeff says.
“There are people out there that devote their lives to service of other human beings.”
There are people out there that devote their lives to service of other human beings. The treatment helped Jeff understand why he was turning to alcohol. “That was why I continued to drink: because every time I started feeling anxious, it calmed me down, I thought.”
Now, Jeff is reconnected with his family. “All three of my children talk to me now. It means everything in the world to me,” he says. “I have my family back.”
This article provided by the VA “Make the Connection” program and website. Hear stories of recovery at Maketheconnection.net
Does this sound like someone you know? There is help. See “How Can I Get Help?” on Page 4 and make the call…..get them started on a path of “Help and Hope.”
Exploring top issues facing U.S. veterans
(Editor’s note: The following article was generated by asking the Chat GPT tool the question: “What are the three biggest issues facing U.S. veterans?”)
The three biggest issues facing US veterans can be classified as healthcare, employment, and mental health.
Firstly, healthcare is a major concern for veterans due to the unique and complex health challenges they can face, such as physical injuries and mental health conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Accessibility to timely and quality healthcare services is vital in addressing these issues, but many veterans struggle with long wait times and a shortage of healthcare providers. The expanding veteran population, coupled with an aging demographic, further strains the system, making it difficult for veterans to receive the care they deserve. Secondly, employment is a critical challenge for veterans transitioning from military to civilian life. Even though veterans possess valuable skills and experience, they often struggle with translating their military accomplishments into terms that are understood by civilian employers. Moreover, veterans may face unique barriers, such as lack of network
connections and misconceptions about their capabilities. It is important to have targeted job training programs and initiatives that facilitate the smooth transition of veterans into the workforce, enabling them to leverage their skills and contribute to the country’s economy.
Lastly, mental health issues remain a significant concern among veterans. Many veterans experience PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse as a result of their deployment experiences. Unfortunately, the stigma around seeking mental healthcare often prevents veterans from seeking help when they need it the most. Improving mental health services, destigmatizing these issues, and increasing access to comprehensive mental health support are vital to address the psychological well-being of veterans. Efforts must be made at the federal, state, and local levels, along with the collaboration of both public and private sectors, to comprehensively address these challenges. By ensuring accessible healthcare, providing better employment opportunities, and prioritizing mental health support, we can honor the sacrifices made by our veterans and empower them to thrive in civilian life.
VETERANS CHRONICLE
HOW CAN I GET HELP?
Every county and state has a Veteran Affairs office to answer questions about benefits and provide assistance. There are also other useful resources for veterans in the Inland Northwest.
Affairs website has resources veterans.
VA.gov/welcome-kit
The VA Welcome Guide covers all types of benefits and services available for veterans, new recruits, active service members and their families.
Views from a Veteran Hospital waiting room
By Don Walker Veterans HelpNet
I recently spent some time in the “waiting room” for some lab work at MannGrandstaff Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Spokane.
It was 7:58 on a Wednesday morning and I was sitting in the “lab work” waiting room. I was new to the VA medical system but I want to get my VA healthcare set up. This process required me to get some lab work before I was assigned a primary VA doctor. I had a short wait but the moments that I sat there waiting for my name to be called gave a glimpse of a real-world cross section of todays and yesterday’s U.S. veterans. The view showed me a lot. I looked around this room and I counted six walkers and three wheelchairs among the 15-20 veterans waiting for their names to be called. There were six women among this group seeking help.
Men and women of all ages were there but
Explore.VA.gov/benefitsnavigator
Explore VA benefits and discover which ones you and your family may be eligible to receive.
If you don’t know who to call, VA has a new “Single Access Point” phone
number to all
IN PERSON
Spokane County Regional Veteran Service
1117 N. Evergreen Rd., Spokane Valley, WA (509) 477-3690
Apply for emergency services, or have any benefits or service questions answered by 5 Veteran Service Officers (VSO) and staff.
Kootenai County Veteran Services and Benefits Office
120 E. Railroad Ave., Post Falls, ID (208) 446-1092
Meet with a VSO or staff for help with VA benefits enrollment, claims or other veteran needs.
Goodwill Support Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)
130 E. Third Ave., Spokane, WA (509) 828-2449
SSVF helps homeless veterans and their families find housing and connects veterans with other support organizations. Healthcare for Homeless
BY PHONE
Spokane County Regional Veteran Service (509) 477-3690
Kootenai County Veteran Services and Benefits Office
120 E. Railroad Ave., Post Falls, ID (208) 446-1092
Veteran Crisis Line
1 (800) 273-8255, press 1
North Idaho Crisis Center (208) 625-4884
Washington or Idaho 2-1-1
Dial “2-1-1” for health and human resources referrals.
The ages of the patients ranged from early 20s to a whole lot of grey hairs. Nobody looked happy to be there, but is anyone ever very happy when visiting a medical facility? The medical staff was treating all of us with the dignity and respect we earned and deserved. No one waited very long.
Spokane or another location and you will feel humbled and gracious for the folks that made their choices and the folks that come here every day to provide help and hope. Thank you.
Common questions about accessing VA Health Care
What are my health care options for myself and my family?
VA Health Care is one of many health care options veterans may have, including TRICARE, Medicare/Medicaid, and private insurance plans. In most cases, family members and dependents are not eligible for VA Health Care. It’s important to figure out which option is best for you.
VA Health Care counts as your health insurance under the Affordable Care Act. However, veterans enrolled in VA Health Care are not eligible for health insurance subsidies. Visit https://www.healthcare.gov/ veterans to learn more.
How does VA support recent combat veterans?
Combat Veterans can get five years of cost-
free health care following separation and remain eligible for VA Health Care as long as they enroll within five years of separation.
How does VA support Military Sexual Trauma (MST) survivors?
VA offers cost-free counseling and support services that help veterans recover from trauma. You don’t have to be enrolled in VA Health Care to access MST services.
What services are included in VA Health Care?
•Preventive Care (e.g. check-ups)
•Outpatient care (e.g. mental health care and substance abuse counseling)
•Inpatient care (e.g. surgery)
•Medications and supplies
VETERANS CHRONICLE
How to apply for VA health care
Find out how to request benefits as a veteran or service member
How do I prepare before I start my application?
Find out if you’re eligible for VA health benefits by visiting https://www.va.gov/health-care/ eligibility/ Gather the information listed that you’ll need to fill out an Application for Health Benefits (VA Form 10-10EZ)
You’ll need this information:
• Social Security numbers for you, your spouse, and your qualified dependents.
• Your military discharge papers (DD214 or other separation documents), military service history information, and details about exposure to any toxins or other hazards.
• Insurance card information for all insurance companies that cover you, including any coverage
provided through a spouse or significant other. This includes Medicare, private insurance, or insurance from your employer.
• Gross household income from the previous calendar year for you, your spouse, and your dependents. This includes income from a job and any other sources. Gross household income is your income before taxes and any other deductions.
• Your deductible expenses for the past year. These include certain health care and education costs.
Note: You don’t have to tell about your income and expenses when you apply. But if you’re not eligible based on other factors, the VA will need this information to decide on your application.
How do I apply?
You can apply online right now at https://www.va.gov/health-care/ apply-for-health-care-form-1010ez/introduction
You Can Also Apply
In Other Ways:
Option 1: By phone
Call the toll-free hotline at 877222-8387 to get help with your application. The line is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET.
Option 2: By mail
Fill out an Application for Health Benefits (VA Form 10-10EZ). Find the form at https://www.va.gov/ find-forms/about-form-10-10ez
You or someone acting as your power of attorney must sign and date the form. If you’re using a power of attorney, you’ll need
to submit a copy of the Power of Attorney form along with your application.
If you sign with an “X,” two people you know must witness your signature. They’ll also need to sign and print their names on the form.
Send your completed application to:
Health Eligibility Center PO Box 5207 Janesville, WI 53547-5207
Option 3: Apply in person
Download and fill out the Application for Health Benefits (VA Form 10-10EZ) at https:// www.va.gov/find-forms/aboutform-10-10ez
You or someone acting as your power of attorney must sign and date the form. If you’re using a power of attorney, you’ll need to submit a copy of the Power of Attorney form along with your application.
If you sign with an “X,” 2 people you know must witness your signature. They’ll also need to sign and print their names on the form. Go to your nearest VA medical center or clinic. Bring a signed Application for Health Benefits (VA Form 10-10EZ) with you.
For local help, contact one of the Veteran Service Centers found in the “How Can I Get Help?” chart on Page 4 of this publication.
VETERANS CHRONICLE
How to become a patient at Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center
With VA health care, each veteran’s medical benefits package is unique.
All veterans are encouraged to enroll in the VA Health Care System.
To begin the process, please complete an application for health care benefits at https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-toapply/
You can submit the form online, or you may print the form and mail it to: Spokane VA Medical Center Business Office / Eligibility 4815 N. Assembly St Spokane, WA 99205
You can also bring the form to the Medical Center. The Eligibility Office is located on the 7th floor of the main building.
Whether mailing or bringing your application, please include the following items:
• a copy of both sides of your current insurance card (including Medicare or Medicaid)
• a copy of your DD214, ‘Armed Forces
veteran enrolled in the VA health care system. The handbook provides a current and accurate description of VA health care benefits and services. Your handbook will be tailored specifically to you with personal identifying information, and should be safeguarded as you would any other sensitive personal document.
The “Veterans Health Benefits Handbook” includes:
• Eligibility and health care benefits,
• Contact information for your preferred facility,
• Information regarding copayment responsibilities,
• Instructions on how to schedule appointments,
• Guidelines to communicate treatment needs, patient rights, ways to obtain copies of medical records and other important information.
You will receive your personalized handbook via U.S. mail; therefore, you should have a current address on file with VA. Handbooks are mailed based on Priority Group, beginning with Priority Group 1 and ending with Priority Group 8.
For more information, go to www. va.gov/healthbenefits/vhbh. You may also call VA toll-free at 1-877-222-VETS (8387) if you need to update your address or receive more information.
Health Care Benefits Overview
VA publishes the “Health Care Benefits Overview” booklet, which provides general information and frequently asked questions about VA’s medical benefits package available for all enrollees, and other information such as eligibility for enrollment.
The publication is available and can be downloaded at https://www.va.gov/ healthbenefits/resources/epublications. asp.
Veterans are encouraged to refer to it whenever you have questions about your eligibility for specific health care benefits. More information is available at the following resources:
• Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center Enrollment Office
• VHA Health Benefits Website https:// www.va.gov/health-care/
• My HealtheVet https://www.myhealth. va.gov/mhv-portal-web/home
Report of Transfer or Discharge’
• (Purple Heart recipients only should bring a copy of your award letter if ‘Purple Heart’ is not noted on your DD214
To speak to someone in the eligibility office, please call (509) 434-7009 or (800) 325-7940.
Basic Eligibility
If you served in the active military, naval or air service and are separated under any condition other than dishonorable, you may qualify for VA health care benefits. Current and former members of the Reserves or National Guard who were called to active duty (other than for training only) by a federal order and completed the full period for which they were called or ordered to active duty may be eligible for VA health care as well. VA encourages all Veterans to apply in order to determine their enrollment eligibility.
Veterans Health Benefits Handbook VA produces a personalized “Veterans Health Benefits Handbook” for each
• VA toll-free 1-877-222-VETS (8387) Monday-Friday between 8 AM and 8 PM ET.
For more local help see “How Can I Get Help?” section in this publication.
VETERANS CHRONICLE
New Spokane Valley VA Clinic opens
A new Department of Veterans Affairs health clinic recently opened in Spokane Valley. The new clinic is at 12509 E.
Main phone: 509-434-7055
VA health connect: 833-983-0486
Mental health phone: 509-434-7013
Facility hours
Monday: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Tuesday: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Thursday: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Friday: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
Medical personnel
If you are interested in joining a Primary Care team at the Spokane Valley Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC), please let your current Primary Care team know, and you will be placed on a list for reassignment.
Approved VA Urgent Care Facilities
Spokane/Kootenai County
Multicare Indigo Urgent Care 1429 N Liberty Lake Rd Ste A Liberty Lake, WA 99019
509-530-5460
Multicare Rockwood Liberty Lake Clinic 1326 N Stanford Ln Liberty Lake, WA 99019 509-755-6760
PMG PHC
16528 E Desmet Ct # A1200 Spokane Valley, WA 99216 509-944-8910
Multicare Indigo Urgent Care 15605 E Sprague Ave Spokane Valley, WA 99037 509-598-7820
Concentra Urgent Care 15425 E Mission Ave Spokane Valley, WA 99037 866-944-6046
CHAS Spokane Urgent Care Valley 1502 N Vercler Rd Spokane Valley, WA 99216 509-444-8200
Kootenai Urgent Care Llc
1300 E Mullan Ave Ste 600 Post Falls, ID 83854 208-625-3600
Mann-Grandstaff Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center 4815 North Assembly Street Spokane, WA 99205-6185
Main phone: 509-434-7000 Mental health: 509-434-7013
VA must get notified of your care within 72 hours
Ask your urgent care or primary provider to notify them right away either through the VA emergency care reporting portal (https://emergencycarereporting. communitycare.va.gov/compliance) or by calling 844-724-7842 (TTY: 711).
VA’s health benefits website, located at www.va.gov/health-care/, contains information related to the medical benefits, information and resources available to its enrollees, such as:
• Online application for enrollment
• Newly released information regarding updates or changes to VA health care benefits and services
• Medical benefits based on eligibility and priority group
• Copayment information
• Contact information
• Links to other sites of interest, such as My HealtheVet, eBenefits, and the Affordable Care Act
Mirabeau Parkway, Suite 100.
VETERANS CHRONICLE
representatives who can answer general questions about benefits, eligibility, and services specifically for women Veterans. By offering more ways to reach WVCC representatives, women veterans can choose the most convenient way to get the information they need.
Online Chat.
Online, phone help options available for women veterans
Calling all women who served in the United States Military!
Do you know your veteran status? Do you have a Veteran ID card? Should you receive any benefits from VA, like the GI Bill? Do you know what health care benefits you have earned?
If you do not know the answer to even one of these questions, the Department of Veterans Affairs has established the Women Veterans Call Center just for you.
The WVCC staff is trained to provide women veterans, their families, and caregivers about
VA services and resources. The staff is ready to respond to your concerns. The call is free, and you can call as often as you like until you have the answers to your questions. The Call Center is available Monday through Friday 8 a.m.-10 p.m. ET, and on Saturdays from 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m. ET.
Call, Chat, or Text now Available
Women veterans can now connect with the WVCC through text messaging. Similar to the existing call line and online chat, women veterans will be connected with WVCC
Occupational, physical therapy available
Hey Veterans, Did You Know..
… the Spokane VA Medical Center and Coeur d’Alene clinic have Physical Therapists and Occupational Therapists?
By Jean Bledsoe Veterans HelpNet
I am a retired RN and knew a little about both, but I really didn’t understand the full scope of what they could do to improve my life. I was referred to a PT, and as she watched me painfully walk down the hall, she immediately gave me a new rolling walker with a seat and basket.
She evaluated my spinal condition, came up with a plan, gave me some simple exercises along with some equipment, and said I needed OT in addition to PT and ordered it immediately.
The OT evaluated my condition and concentrated on specific simple tasks that I was having difficulty performing with my hands. Like holding silverware, picking up small items, buttoning my clothes, tying my shoes, using a knife…all because of the loss of strength, feeling and flexibility in my hands. I was treated with ultrasound and paraffin wax.
Each week I would see both the PT and OT where they reevaluated my progress and
gave me additional exercises and things to help with my rehabilitation and to make my life easier. Eventually it was determined that I would need to see the hand surgeon at the VA and they set all of that in motion.
I talked with the OT team, who told me about helping stroke patients and amputees, and patients with chronic illnesses like diabetes and heart disease. Assessing their needs and their home environment and providing devices, equipment, and education to enable them to lead safer, more independent lives to the best of their abilities. They mentioned the work OTs do with clients with PTSD and other mental health issues, and more.
What do you need? The first thing is to be eligible to receive care at the VA. If you aren’t already in the system go to page 4 and select one of the Veteran Service Officers to help you. If you are already in the system just ask your primary provider for a referral.
WVCC chat allows women veterans to go online and chat via real-time messaging with a WVCC representative.
Text Messaging.
This new service enables women veterans to text and anonymously chat with a WVCC representative. To get started, text 1-855829-6636.
As both the chat function and text messaging are anonymous, please do not use personally identifiable information such as Social Security numbers.
All the representatives at the Women veterans Call Center are women, and many are veterans themselves. In addition to linking women veterans to information, the Women Veterans Call Center makes
direct referrals to Women Veteran Program Managers located at every VA medical center. The Women Veteran Program Manager helps the woman Veteran coordinate services.
What will happen when I call the WVCC?
• You will be connected to a trained VA woman staff member.
• Call center staff will conduct a brief screening to assess your needs.
• Women veterans will be provided personalized information regarding health care services, VA benefits and services, and a package of information will be sent to their home.
• You can call for yourself or for a women veteran you know.
• The call is free and confidential.
• Contact information will be requested so staff may follow-up.
For local help contact one of the Veteran Service Centers found in the “How Can I Get Help?” section of this publication.
VETERANS CHRONICLE
What to say and not to say to
It is important that we understand that how we address our combat veterans not only shows understanding, compassion and respect, but saying the right or wrong thing can open doors to help and healing. Here are a few examples:
What not to say:
1. Never say “What was it like? Or “tell me about your war experience” or “How many people did you kill?’ These types of questions could lead to them re-experiencing the trauma of combat which could be the fundamental driving force of PTSD.
2. Never say ‘I know how you must feel, I have a friend that went through it.”
3. You don’t say ”I glad you made it home okay” or “I’m glad you’re home safe” or “I’m glad nothing bad happened to you.” All combat veterans experience some form of damage and they’re never unhurt or OK.
4. You should never, never, never, ever, ever, ever offer a veteran help unless you are 100% sure that you can follow through with providing it. This
is the last and most important and the hardest one for many people to understand…
What you can say to invite conversation….
1. ”Welcome Home”
2. “Thank you for your service”
3. “I’m Sorry” or “I’m sorry for your suffering, I’m sorry you have to go through this..”
4. ”We’ll never forget.” When you say this to a veteran you are implying that as an American, you are in it with them.
5. Nothing! Quit talking and listen.
These words and thought are excerpts from an essay by Iraq War veteran Jason Moon. Jason was interviewed on public radio about the what people have said that can alienate and even anger combat veterans.
d
VA Clinic offers care to North Idaho veterans
The Community Based Outpatient Clinic in Coeur d’Alene offers primary care and specialty health services, including mental health care, nutrition counseling, laboratory services, and more.
915 West Emma Avenue
Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814-2531
Main phone: 208-665-1700
VA health connect: 833-983-0486
Mental health care: 509-413-9058
Hours may vary for different services.
Mon: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Tue: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Wed: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Thu: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Fri: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed
Services
• Addiction and substance use care
• Drug and alcohol treatment and rehabilitation
• Diabetes care
• Laboratory and pathology
• Blood draw and clinical testing
• Mental health care
• Behavioral health
• Military sexual trauma care
• Optometry
• Vision care, corrective lenses and eye glasses
• PTSD care
• Physical therapy, occupational therapy and kinesiotherapy
• Primary care
• Family and internal medicine
• Psychiatry
• Social work
VETERANS CHRONICLE
DEBUNKING THE MYTHS: VA health care has plenty to be proud of
The Department of Veterans Affairs provides healthcare services to millions of U.S. veterans. Despite its critical role in serving those who have served, there are several misconceptions surrounding VA healthcare. We hope to debunk five common myths about VA healthcare, shedding light on the reality of the services provided and the quality of care delivered.
Myth 1: VA Healthcare is Inferior Quality
One prevalent myth is that VA healthcare offers subpar quality compared to private healthcare providers. However, studies have shown that VA healthcare often performs as well as or better than private healthcare in terms of patient outcomes and safety. The VA has implemented rigorous quality control measures, resulting in improved healthcare delivery and patient satisfaction.
Myth 2: Long Waiting Times for Appointments
Another misconception is that VA healthcare is plagued by long waiting times for appointments. While delays have been an issue in the past, the VA has made significant efforts to address this problem. Initiatives such as the Veterans Choice Program and increased funding have led to reduced wait times, enhanced access to care, and improved appointment scheduling systems.
Myth 3: Limited Specialty Care Options
Some believe that VA healthcare offers limited specialty care options, forcing veterans to seek care elsewhere. However, the VA has made substantial investments in expanding its specialty care services. It has developed partnerships with renowned medical institutions, ensuring veterans have access to a wide range of specialized treatments and procedures.
Myth 4: Lack of Mental Health Services
It is often assumed that VA healthcare lacks sufficient mental health services for veterans struggling with conditions such as posttraumatic stress disorder and depression. In reality, the VA has made mental health a top priority, significantly expanding its mental health services and resources. This includes specialized programs for veterans with PTSD, suicide prevention initiatives, and increased access to mental health professionals.
Myth 5: Limited Coverage for Female Veterans
A common misconception is that VA healthcare provides limited coverage for female veterans. While it is true that the VA historically focused primarily on male veterans, it has made substantial progress in addressing the unique healthcare needs of female veterans. The VA now offers comprehensive women’s health services, including gynecological care, reproductive health services, and maternity care.
Debunking these myths is crucial to ensure that veterans are aware of the quality and range of services provided by VA healthcare. The VA has made significant strides in improving access, reducing waiting times, expanding specialty care options, enhancing mental health services, and catering to the specific needs of female veterans. It is important to recognize the ongoing efforts and commitment of the VA in providing highquality healthcare to those who have bravely served our nation.
