Unbelievable Strides in Women’s Care at VA
U.S. Air Force Veteran Stacy Colussy has been using VA health care for almost 20 years.
She currently receives her primary care at the Michael A. Marzano (Mercer County) VA Clinic in Hermitage, PA.
“They [the VA] have made unbelievable strides in women’s care—there’s a whole section just for women,” shared Stacy. “So, if I’m coming in for a Pap smear, and I have to go in with all these guys…no. They have a whole section that is just women. It’s more comfortable. They have a lot more benefits and different offerings too—new things they did not have in the past for women’s health.”
Two of the programs Stacy has been using recently—the personal trainer program as well as the women Veterans MOVE! Group.
“I can’t say enough about the personal trainer program. It’s awesome. I’ve been using that for about a year now and it is wonderful.”
The Butler VA’s Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Program offers Veterans the opportunity to work one-on-one with a personal trainer in its Wellness Center at the Abie Abraham VA Health Care Center or virtually. Veterans can get started by calling 878-271-6484.
MOVE! is a weight management, health promotion program designed to improve the lives of Veterans. MOVE!’s core ideas—encouraging healthy eating behavior, increasing physical activity, and promoting even small weight losses—are easy to follow and based on the latest in nutrition science. Stacy currently participates in an evening MOVE! class (via video) with other women Veterans.
“I think a lot of people don’t realize, there are a bunch of different MOVE! Groups. The first one I was in, was a bad fit for me. But, the one I’m in now is a perfect fit. There is no issue with trying different ones.
With both the personal trainer and MOVE!, Stacy has noticed great results for herself. “It’s easier to make good food choices. And, the exercise has been great. I have MS, so having it tailored to me and what I can do, makes it very easy. I feel stronger.”
One final thing Stacy wants to impress upon other Veterans: As soon as you get out, apply! “People need to apply for VA care as soon as they get out of the military. Even if they don’t need it, all that paperwork is done then, and it doesn’t have a chance to get lost.”
Veterans can contact the Butler VA Enrollment Team to apply by calling 878-271-6645 or visit www.va.gov/butler-health-care/register-for-care/ to learn more.