Stories
Read about what's happening in our VA Charleston health care community.
Last week we celebrated National Healthcare Volunteer Week. A time in April every year where we recognize the dedication and hard work of our Ralph H. Johnson VAMC Volunteers who help serve our Lowcountry Veterans.
Earlier this year, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) became the first and only health-care system in the country to publicly post opioid prescribing rates when it launched its new data website.
The Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center now offers another convenient option for Veterans to receive appointment reminders – text messages direct to your mobile device for patients who choose this option.

As the crew hoisted the American flag on a breezy morning, more than 5,500 attendees cheered as the USS Ralph Johnson (DDG 114), the Navy’s 64th Arleigh Burke class destroyer, was commissioned on March 24 at the Columbus Street Pier in Charleston.
In February, the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center welcomed a new Blind Rehab Outpatient Specialist (BROS)—Alex Smith.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States, according to the National Heart Association, but is largely preventable.

Veterans can face an array of challenges when they make the transition from active duty to civilian life.
As the first of January rolls around, a new year begins and traditionally with that comes resolutions. Frequently these goals revolve around getting fit, losing weight and staying healthy.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), regular health exams and tests are important to detect problems before they start, or find problems early, when chances for successful treatment and cures are high.