Director's Message January 5, 2024

This is the concept of looking at a patient as a whole person; seeing their diet and their family and all the things that matter to them and taking that into account and working collaboratively as we decide on treatments or care plans. We don’t want to just see symptoms and prescribe medications. We want to take a holistic approach that factors in what matters most to each Veteran to help personalize their care. 

This year, the Whole Health program is asking Veterans to set their intentions for the new year. While resolutions come from the mind and are often dependent on the expectations of others and social pressures, our intentions come from the heart. When we set intentions for the new year, we are committing to follow our heart and do what we want most, regardless of the opinions or criticisms of culture and peers. 

If you know in your heart that you should probably get more exercise, then VAPIHCS wants to help! We have programs like Move for younger Veterans and GeroFit for more mature Veterans to help you keep moving. For Veterans who have a disability or are recovering from an injury, we have a robust recreation therapy program, and Veterans 55 and older can participate in the Golden Age Games. 

If you want to quit smoking, please speak with your Primary Care Provider. We have options for you, including Whole Health therapeutic techniques that can help. Many Veterans also want to eat healthier. Before you change your diet, please talk to one of our registered dieticians. They will look at your health conditions and suggest foods that will be best for you specifically. 

Setting intentions to change your behavior is admirable, and VAPIHCS wants to support you in everything you want to do. LGBTQ+ Veterans can join our support groups to find strength with people who identify like you do. We have employment assistance at all stages of your career, so if you’re in a difficult place and you aren’t sure how to manage it, ask your doctor to refer you to a social worker for assistance in everything from housing to compensated work therapy. Remember that our Chaplains are always available to talk, and there’s no shame in asking for a referral to Mental Health Services if you want to start a conversation about strategies to improve your mental health. 

VAPIHCS wants to be there to support you, so call us today at 1-800-214-1306 to make an appointment with your doctor and tell them about the things you’d like to work towards this year. We’ll find the corresponding programs that can support your goals and help you to get healthier and happier in 2024! 

Thoughts from Chaplain Richie Charles

With just a few days into 2024, we are presented with a new year, and the prospect of making resolutions to achieve new heights in the various dimensions of our lives. But many increasingly view the idea of resolutions with less optimism, as they look back and notice that their resolutions never seem to last. With years of failed promises, many conclude that their pledges for change are as good as ropes of sand.

But if you still decide to pursue resolutions, there are several practical strategies one can implement to increase the likelihood of a resolutions succeeding in the new year. One is writing down your goals. When a goal is put on paper, it can provide visual reinforcement when motivation might wane.

Another is aiming for small, consistent progress on the path to achieving one’s goals. Sometimes making large leaps and achieving major milestones may not be sustainable over time. To achieve major resolutions, choosing instead to make small progress, on a consistent basis, makes goal achievement more realistic and attainable.

Making goals specific and measurable is another key insight. The less vague our goals are, and the easier it is to measure progress, the more we can keep on track with bringing these goals into reality.

Additionally, when we make our goals public, this can create a system of accountability, as we can feel more likely to follow through with a resolution when others know about our goal. Creating an environment that is conducive to our goals, is another good tip. For instance, if our goal is to be a bit more active in the new year, setting your exercise clothes out the night before, or joining a gym that’s on the way from your commute back from work can make help increase the odds of you sticking to your plan.  Let’s embrace the fresh start this new year provides us and maximize each day.

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

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