Derek Coughenour PT, DPT, MPM, CLD, VHA-CM

As the interim director, he is overseeing all aspects of health care provided to Veterans at VA Pittsburgh’s medical centers in Oakland and O’Hara Township, the Henry Parham VA Clinic in Monroeville, and five outpatient clinics in Beaver, Fayette, Washington and Westmoreland counties in Pennsylvania and Belmont County in Ohio.

In his permanent role, Dr. Coughenour has served as the Executive Director of the James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center in Altoona, Pennsylvania, since December 2022. Under his leadership, the Altoona VA has earned a 97.5% Trust Score, developed a new Pharmacy and Veteran Experience space, expanded primary care, added new surgical capabilities (including radiofrequency ablation and total joint arthroplasty), and expanded a nationally recognized telehealth oncology program through a partner-facility collaboration.

Dr. Coughenour joined VA in 2003 and has held senior roles at VAPHS and the Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center in Philadelphia. He holds a master’s degree in public management, a Doctorate in physical therapy, and a Bachelor of Science in kinesiology.