Transforming Disabilities into Possibilities: Celebrating National PSAS Week at VHSO

From prosthetic limbs and custom orthotics to advanced mobility aids and adaptive home equipment, the PSAS team ensures every device meets the unique needs of each Veteran. Their work extends far beyond physical tools; it’s about restoring possibilities and empowering Veterans to live full, active lives.

“Every device, every fitting, every modification is a step toward restoring a Veteran’s independence,” said Melanie Wood, chief of PSAS at VHSO.

National Recognition and Local Excellence

This week, October 31 – November 7,  VHSO proudly celebrates PSAS Week, shining a spotlight on these exceptional professionals and their dedication to transforming the lives of those who served.

The 2025 national theme, “Prosthetics: Transforming Disabilities into Possibilities,” highlights how PSAS touches every aspect of a Veteran’s life. Whether fitting a prosthetic limb that restores mobility, ordering a scooter lift that opens new doors, or providing sensory aids that enhance communication and connection, PSAS changes lives every single day.

A National Honor for VHSO

This year, VHSO’s PSAS Team earned national recognition as the PSAS Service of the Year Level 1 Facility — a well-deserved honor reflecting the team’s innovation, collaboration and compassionate care.

Their efforts ensure that Veterans across the Ozarks have access to cutting-edge technology, personalized fittings and the kind of attentive service that transforms lives.

“The strength of our team lies in our shared mission to serve Veterans with excellence, empathy, and expertise,” said Wood.

HRO Principles in Action: A Culture of Safety and Collaboration

When the Executive Leadership Team recently rounded in the Prosthetics Department, the PSAS team proudly shared how the High Reliability Organization (HRO) principles of Deference to Expertise and Preoccupation with Failure guided them in addressing a growing concern — unactionable consults that risked delaying or misdirecting Veteran care.

Over several months, the team noticed an increase in consults that did not meet Prosthetic and Rehabilitative Items and Services regulatory requirements, creating potential gaps in care coordination. Rather than overlook the issue, PSAS staff collaborated with clinical partners to ensure every consult was reviewed and addressed appropriately.

One powerful example involved a Veteran referred to Physical Therapy for evaluation of the Pulsed Direct Current Restorer, a device used to treat peripheral neuropathy. After a thorough assessment, the physical therapist determined that the Veteran’s symptoms were more consistent with impaired arterial flow than neuropathy. Recognizing the need for specialized intervention, the therapist consulted with a certified lymphedema specialist in Occupational Therapy to initiate a more appropriate and effective treatment plan.

This case exemplifies how interdisciplinary collaboration, adherence to clinical guidelines and deference to the right expertise directly improve outcomes for Veterans. By working across disciplines and avoiding assumptions, the team ensured the Veteran received timely, accurate and safe care, preventing harm and enhancing recovery.

“The work done in PSAS often happens behind the scenes and may not always be visible, but its impact is deeply felt in the lives of every Veteran who comes through our department. It’s more than procurement; it’s about restoring independence and improving quality of life. We are proud to serve those who have served,” said Michelle Hudson, assistant chief of PSAS at VHSO.

Through their attention to detail and commitment to HRO principles, the PSAS team demonstrated how clinical integrity and coordination create a culture of safety and excellence, ensuring Veterans always receive the right care at the right time.

Impact by the Numbers

The reach and impact of PSAS are extraordinary:

• In Fiscal Year 2025 alone, VHSO PSAS had a $37 million budget to support more than 200,000 items (not including services) and more than 64,000 consults for Veterans treated across VHSO — an incredible testament to their reach and dedication.
• Nationally, in Fiscal Year 2025, the Department of Veterans Affairs provided more than 24.5 million prosthetic devices, items and services to 3.6 million Veterans, improving quality of life, independence and overall well-being.

This remarkable scope makes VA the largest and most comprehensive provider of prosthetic and sensory aids in the nation, ensuring Veterans receive the medically-prescribed devices and services they need to thrive.

Celebrating Innovation, Compassion and Dedication

Throughout PSAS Week, VHSO recognizes the compassion, creativity and tireless dedication of its PSAS professionals. Their work bridges science and humanity, combining advanced technology with genuine care to help Veterans achieve their goals.

The week’s theme reminds us PSAS is more than a service. It’s a promise – a commitment to ensuring that no Veteran’s disability limits their ability to live independently, confidently and with dignity.