Atlanta VAHCS Honors Women Veterans During Women’s History Month

The Atlanta VAHCS Women Veterans Program is built around an interdisciplinary team dedicated to providing comprehensive, high-quality care tailored specifically to women Veterans. The program focuses on ensuring excellence in women’s health services while enhancing the overall experience of women Veterans receiving care throughout the Atlanta VAHCS.

Atlanta VAHCS leads the nation in serving women Veterans, with 29,433 women Veterans enrolled locally, more than any other VA health care system in the country. The growing population reflects both the increasing number of women serving in the military and the Atlanta VAHC’s commitment to providing specialized care that meets their unique needs.

“Our mission is to ensure that every woman Veteran who walks through our doors receives the highest level of care in a welcoming and supportive environment,” said Kathleen O’Loughlin, Women Veterans Program Manager for the Atlanta VAHCS. “Women Veterans have made extraordinary contributions to our nation’s defense, and during Women’s History Month we celebrate their service while reaffirming our commitment to delivering the specialized care and resources they deserve.” 

“Our Women’s Program is proud to meet the need with a team that includes many women Veterans serving in key roles in services that focus on preventative and specialized care.  The presence of women Veterans in these important roles strengthens our program. Their service did not end when they left the military; it continues in their commitment to help improve the health of their fellow Veterans," O’Loughlin added.

The program coordinates a wide range of services, including primary care, mental health support, maternity care coordination, preventive screenings, and specialty services designed specifically for women. Staff members also work to ensure that women Veterans feel recognized, respected, and understood throughout their health care journey.

For many women Veterans, the program provides not only medical care but also a strong sense of community.

Army Veteran Lisa Johnson, who receives care through the Atlanta VAHCS, said the program has made a meaningful difference in her experience.

“Sometimes people forget that women serve in the military too,” Johnson said. “The Women Veterans Program makes sure we’re seen and heard. It feels good knowing there’s a team that understands the unique experiences women bring with them after service.”

Air Force Veteran Mary Ramirez echoed that sentiment, noting the supportive environment she found at the Atlanta VAHCS.

“The care I’ve received here has been outstanding,” Ramirez said. “From the doctors to the support staff, everyone takes the time to listen. Programs like this show that the VA recognizes the growing number of women Veterans and is committed to meeting our needs.”

As the number of women who have served continues to grow nationwide, the Atlanta VAHCS remains committed to leading the way in providing innovative, compassionate care for women Veterans.

During Women’s History Month, O’Loughlin noted that the focus is not only on celebrating the legacy of women who served, but also on continuing to improve the programs and services that support them today and for generations to come.