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From Cuba to Rhode Island: 43rd MP Brigade Gets Health Check at VA Providence

Peggy Pionke, Readjustment Counsellor at the Providence Vet Center, speaks to a member of the 43rd MP Brigade about Vet Center services at the VA Providence PDHRA
Peggy Pionke, Readjustment Counsellor at the Providence Vet Center, speaks to a member of the 43rd MP Brigade about Vet Center services during the VA Providence PDHRA
By Justyn Charon, Public Affairs Specialist

VA Providence Healthcare System hosted a Post-Deployment Health Reassessment (PDHRA) for the Rhode Island Army National Guard's 43rd Military Police Brigade on November 5th, 2023.

The PDHRA is a comprehensive health screening that evaluates the physical and mental well-being of service members who have recently returned from deployment.

The 43rd Military Police Brigade, which consisted of nearly 90 soldiers, had just returned from a year-long deployment to Cuba. The brigade was welcomed home by VA Providence Program Manager for the Post 9/11 Military to VA Program Rochelle Fortin. 

The PDHRA event included medical exams, blood tests, immunizations, dental screenings, and behavioral health assessments. The service members also had the opportunity to learn about the benefits and services available to them at VA Providence, such as health care, research, housing, and counseling.

The PDHRA is part of VA's commitment to ensuring the health and well-being of Veterans and their families. VA Providence is proud to serve the 43rd Military Police Brigade and all Veterans who have served our country.