Director's Message 08/26/22
Women’s Equality Day August 26, 2022, is Women’s Equality Day. This day commemorates the day in 1920 when the United States adopted the nineteenth amendment to the Constitution, which prohibits the states and the federal government from denying the right to vote to citizens based on gender.
It was first celebrated in 1971, was designated by Congress in 1973, and is proclaimed each year by the President. Here at the VA Pacific Islands Health Care System, we celebrate everyone for their differences, and appreciate all the perspectives that our diverse employee population brings to our mission.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
The Department of Education recently expanded the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program which may forgive the remaining balance on your student loans. Under the PSLF Limited Waiver, which expires on October 31, 2022, borrowers may receive credit for periods of repayment on loans that would otherwise not qualify for PSLF.
Mask Mandates in VA Facilities
Mask mandates have been lifted across the country, but I want to remind people that at our medical facilities, we are still requiring masks. Diseases are transmitted at a much higher rate in medical facilities, and we are still seeing COVID-19 and flu cases. Our first and most important duty is to protect our Veteran’s health. Right now, that means continuing to wear masks, practice hand hygiene, and staying home if you are sick. We will notify everyone if there are policies changes. In the meantime, please continue to wear a mask into facilities here at VAPIHCS.
VAPIHCS Talk Story
VA Pacific Islands Health Care System (VAPIHCS) has a new podcast that began in May. The podcast is designed to showcase aspects of VA care that Veterans may not know about, and to help inform and educate about aspects of VA care. We hope you’ll download the episodes we have put out so far and keep an eye out for future episodes.
VA Research: Neurofeedback study
VA Pacific Islands Health Care System (VAPIHCS) is looking for Veterans who would like to volunteer to participate in a paid neurofeedback study. This study is for veterans who have suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and have difficulties like insomnia and headaches as a result. Neurofeedback could help alleviate your symptoms. To learn more, contact Judy Carlson via phone: (808) 433-6677 or by email: Judy.Carlson@va.gov
Warrior to Soulmate Training
Chaplain Richie Charles will be hosting a class called “Warrior to Soulmate,” and is looking for couples interested in participating. This class will be for Veterans and their spouses, and it seeks to help couples communicate and strengthen relationships. If you’d like to RSVP for the class, please contact the Chaplain at 808-913-4479 or Richie.Charles@va.gov
One Team, One Ohana!
Adam M. Robinson, Jr., MD, MBA, CPE
Director, VA Pacific Islands Health Care System
VADM, MC, USN, (RET)
36th Surgeon General, USN
Website: www.hawaii.va.gov– submit your email to get our updates
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Weekly Radio VA Updates:
Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m. on AM830,KHVH with Rick Hamada