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The Fall 2023 edition of the Veterans Digest

An image of a technologically advanced hybrid operating room (OR) at the Philadelphia VA Medical Center, equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for treating vascular issues, strokes, aneurysms, and deep vein thrombosis. This OR aims to improve patient outcomes, reduce complications, and speed up recovery times.
The Philadelphia VA Medical Center's new state-of-the-art hybrid operating room (OR) is a technological breakthrough, offering advanced equipment and specialized care for treating vascular issues, strokes, aneurysms, and deep vein thrombosis. This innovative OR is set to revolutionize patient outcomes, minimizing complications, shortening procedure times, and speeding up recoveries.
By Rita Chapelle, Public Affairs Officer

The Fall 2023 edition of the Veterans Digest from the Philadelphia VA Healthcare System highlights several important updates and initiatives. 

The grand opening of a new hybrid operating room (OR) at the Philadelphia VA Medical Center is celebrated. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, this OR specializes in treating vascular issues, strokes, aneurysms, and deep vein thrombosis. The advanced technology is expected to enhance patient outcomes, reduce complications, and speed up recovery times.

The COMPACT Act program is introduced, allowing veterans in acute suicidal crisis to seek inpatient or outpatient care at the nearest hospital or mental health facility. Veterans can receive up to 30 days of inpatient treatment or 90 days of outpatient care through this initiative. The program aims to provide easy and accessible care, excluding those with a dishonorable discharge.

The VHA-UBER Health Connect program offers free UBER rides to veterans who meet specific criteria, such as being at least 30% service-connected, receiving a VA pension, or having low income. These rides can be used to commute to and from VA medical appointments or approved community locations for care, exams, and treatments.

In an effort to enhance transparency and officer support, the VA Police have started wearing body cameras and plan to install in-dash cameras in their vehicles. The cameras will only record in certain situations, such as for police investigations and court proceedings, to ensure privacy regulations are followed.

The Summer VetFest event attracted over 400 veterans who signed up for benefits under the 2022 PACT Act, which addresses comprehensive toxic exposure. The event provided screenings for toxic exposure and assistance in filing for related benefits. Veterans and their families also enjoyed various carnival activities, games, and food.

The VA has partnered with the Military Basketball Association (MBA) to combat military suicides. As a part of this partnership, the MBA, consisting of over 1,000 veterans and active-duty service members, will host Men's and Women's Double-Header Finals in Philadelphia in May 2024. These games will be televised on CBS Sports, aiming to highlight the connection between sports and mental health.