1 Table of contents 24

Gateway Veteran Summer Edition

Structure Bookmarks		1
Document		1
Article		1
VA ST. LOUIS HEALTH CARE SYSTEM		1
VA ST. LOUIS HEALTH CARE SYSTEM		1
VA ST. LOUIS HEALTH CARE SYSTEM		1
Gateway Veteran		1
Gateway Veteran		1
Gateway Veteran		1
Figure		1
Veterans attend Summer		1
Veterans attend Summer		1
Veterans attend Summer		1
Veterans attend Summer		1
Sports Clinic in San Diego		1
Sports Clinic in San Diego		1
SUMMER 2023		1
SUMMER 2023		1
SUMMER 2023		1
ISSUE 001		1
ISSUE 001		1
From the Director		2
From the Director		2
From the Director		2
Welcome to the inaugural issue of the Gateway		2
Welcome to the inaugural issue of the Gateway		2
Veteran! We are excited to highlight our Veterans and		2
the services they have earned. Our dedicated and		2
passionate staff at VA St. Louis Health Care System are		2
happy to serve our Veterans.		2
I am Candace Ifabiyi, a proud Veteran of the U.S. Army		2
I am Candace Ifabiyi, a proud Veteran of the U.S. Army		2
Reserves and equally proud to be your Medical Center		2
Director here at the VA St. Louis Health Care System.		2
The Gateway Veteran is a quarterly publication of your		2
The Gateway Veteran is a quarterly publication of your		2
VA medical center and we hope you enjoy reading it.		2
If you have any questions or suggestions for future		2
If you have any questions or suggestions for future		2
articles, please feel free to email our public affairs office		2
at STLPAO@va.gov.		2
Figure		2
Candace Ifabiyi, MHA, MSBA, PMP		2
Candace Ifabiyi, MHA, MSBA, PMP		2
Candace Ifabiyi, MHA, MSBA, PMP		2
Medical Center Director		2
Medical Center Director		2
Relocation of St. Charles Clinic August 28th!		2
Relocation of St. Charles Clinic August 28th!		2
Relocation of St. Charles Clinic August 28th!		2
Figure		2
It's official!		2
It's official!		2
It's official!		2
The St. Charles County VA Clinic will be relocating and opening in a new location		2
on August 28, 2023. At 17,500 square feet, the new clinic will be double the size of the current		2
location and provide the following services: Primary Care, Home Based Primary Care, Pathology &		2
Laboratory Service, Physical & Occupational Therapy, and Whole Health.		2
“I understand the anxiety that can come from travelling for care." said Devin Gates, U.S. Army		2
“I understand the anxiety that can come from travelling for care." said Devin Gates, U.S. Army		2
Veteran, VA Healthcare Engineer. "Once open, this expanded Outpatient Clinic in St. Charles will		2
offer care to many Veterans much closer to their homes.”		2
The new clinic, conveniently located in Regency Plaza at		2
The new clinic, conveniently located in Regency Plaza at		2
2845 Veterans Memorial Pkwy,		2
St. Charles, MO 63303,		2
includes 21 Exam rooms, a large open waiting area, and clean modern		2
finishes. We look forward to expanding care in the community and providing improved access for		2
our Veterans throughout this region.		2
New downtown construction on the		3
New downtown construction on the		3
New downtown construction on the		3
horizon to better serve you our Veterans!		3
Figure		3
The VA St. Louis Health Care System is designing a new Bed Tower for our		3
The VA St. Louis Health Care System is designing a new Bed Tower for our		3
The VA St. Louis Health Care System is designing a new Bed Tower for our		3
inpatients. Located downtown on the John Cochran campus, this project will		3
include private rooms for all hospitalized patients, several new parking garages		3
and a new Spinal Cord Injury Center. This graphic is a concept viewing the		3
and a new Spinal Cord Injury Center. This graphic is a concept viewing the		3
campus from the west. Construction is expected to start in 2024 or 2025.		3
campus from the west. Construction is expected to start in 2024 or 2025.		3
Figure		3
VA IS EXPANDING CARE AND BENEFITS		4
VA IS EXPANDING CARE AND BENEFITS		4
VA IS EXPANDING CARE AND BENEFITS		4
FOR VETERANS AND SURVIVORS.		4
PACT ACT		4
PACT ACT		4
PACT ACT		4
The PACT Act is a new law		4
The PACT Act is a new law		4
The PACT Act is a new law		4
that expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed		4
to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. It is perhaps the largest health care		4
and		4
benefits expansion in VA history. The PACT Act adds to the list of health conditions that we		4
assume (or “presume”) are caused by exposure to these substances.		4
This law helps us provide generations of Veterans—and their survivors—with the care and		4
This law helps us provide generations of Veterans—and their survivors—with the care and		4
benefits they’ve earned and deserve! It offers expanded VA health care eligibility for many		4
veterans who were not previously covered by VA care		4
If you, a Veteran, family member, or survivor would like more information about the		4
If you, a Veteran, family member, or survivor would like more information about the		4
If you, a Veteran, family member, or survivor would like more information about the		4
PACT Act and your VA benefits:		4
•		4
•		4
•		4
•		4
Go to		4
Go to		4
www.va.gov/pact		4
4
•		4
CALL 1-800-MyVA411 (698-2411) 24/7/365		4
•		4
•		4
•		4
VASTLHCS Eligibility Office: 314-652-4100 ext 54165 (Mon - Fri / 8am-4pm)		4
VASTLHCS Eligibility Office: 314-652-4100 ext 54165 (Mon - Fri / 8am-4pm)		4
•		4
•		4
•		4
Talk with a Veterans Service Officer (they’re free!)		4
Talk with a Veterans Service Officer (they’re free!)		4
www.VA.gov/disability/get-help-filing-claim		4
•		4
•		4
•		4
Attend one of our upcoming PACT Act outreach events		4
Attend one of our upcoming PACT Act outreach events		4
•		4
•		4
•		4
Go to		4
Go to		4
www.facebook.com/VASTLouis		4
for additional information		4
Toxic exposure screenings are available here at VA St. Louis Health Care System and		4
Toxic exposure screenings are available here at VA St. Louis Health Care System and		4
at VA health facilities across the country. Every Veteran enrolled in VA health care will		4
receive an initial screening and a follow-up screening at least once every 5 years.		4
The screening will ask you if you think you were exposed to any of these hazards		4
The screening will ask you if you think you were exposed to any of these hazards		4
while serving:		4
• Open burn pits and other airborne hazards • Agent Orange		4
• Open burn pits and other airborne hazards • Agent Orange		4
• Radiation • Gulf War-related exposures • Other exposures		4
• Radiation • Gulf War-related exposures • Other exposures		4
• Camp Lejeune contaminated water exposure		4
At your screening, we’ll give you information about any benefits, registry exams, and clin		4
At your screening, we’ll give you information about any benefits, registry exams, and clin		4
-		4
ical resources you may need. Ask about this screening at your next VA health care ap		4
-		4
pointment. If you don’t have an upcoming appointment, or if you want to get a screen		4
-		4
ing sooner, contact your primary care provider through MyHealtheVet and ask to get		4
screened for toxic exposure.		4
VBA Regional Office Benefits		5
VBA Regional Office Benefits		5
VBA Regional Office Benefits		5
Specialist now has an office at		5
John Cochran and Jefferson Barracks!		5
Hello!		5
Hello!		5
Hello!		5
My name is Deanna McKeller. I am a United States Army Reserves Veteran and		5
your VA St. Louis Regional Office Benefits Specialist located at both John Cochran Hospital		5
and Jefferson Barracks!		5
Some of the services that I offer to Veterans, family members and survivors:		5
Some of the services that I offer to Veterans, family members and survivors:		5
• Assistance with filing claims/appeals		5
• Assistance with filing claims/appeals		5
• Checking claims/appeal status		5
• Checking claims/appeal status		5
• Changing of personal information (address/banking/phone number/emails)		5
• Changing of personal information (address/banking/phone number/emails)		5
• General benefits questions		5
• General benefits questions		5
• Benefits/Awards Letters		5
• Benefits/Awards Letters		5
• Veterans resource information		5
• Veterans resource information		5
• And much more!!!		5
• And much more!!!		5
Figure		5
Please stop by and see me at the following days/times:		5
Please stop by and see me at the following days/times:		5
Please stop by and see me at the following days/times:		5
John Cochran VA Hospital		5
John Cochran VA Hospital		5
5th floor Rm. A529		5
5th floor Rm. A529		5
Mon/Wed/Friday		5
Mon/Wed/Friday		5
Hours: 8:00am-4:00pm		5
Hours: 8:00am-4:00pm		5
Jefferson Barracks Division		5
Jefferson Barracks Division		5
Bldg. 1, 1st Floor Rm. C109		5
Bldg. 1, 1st Floor Rm. C109		5
(next to VSO offices)		5
(next to VSO offices)		5
Tues/Thurs		5
Tues/Thurs		5
Hours: 8:00am-4:00pm		5
Hours: 8:00am-4:00pm		5
For assistance off campus, please continue to call our main VBA		5
For assistance off campus, please continue to call our main VBA		5
For assistance off campus, please continue to call our main VBA		5
customer service number:1-800-827-1000 7:00am – 8:00pm		5
or visit our website:		5
www.va.gov		5
Figure		5
Live		6
Live		6
Whole Health		6
It’s never been easier to take charge of your life and health. VA St. Louis Health Care System’s Whole Health team can help you live your best life. It’s all about what matters to you.		6
It’s never been easier to take charge of your life and health. VA St. Louis Health Care System’s Whole Health team can help you live your best life. It’s all about what matters to you.		6
is proud to be a Premier Flagship for Whole Health. Out of the 171 VA Medical Centers nationwide, we are honored to be one of 18 designated Whole Health Flagships in the VA health care system and leading the way in helping you take charge of your life and health.		6
is proud to be a Premier Flagship for Whole Health. Out of the 171 VA Medical Centers nationwide, we are honored to be one of 18 designated Whole Health Flagships in the VA health care system and leading the way in helping you take charge of your life and health.		6
Your VA St. Louis Health Care System		6
Whole Health is about treating you, the person. It’s about you taking charge of your life and health. Whole Health focuses on all aspects of your health, what matters to you, partnering with you and your healthcare team, and not just treating a specific disease or problem.		6
Whether you’re fresh off active duty or have been out of military service for		6
“a while,” Whole Health helps you take control and build positive habits for life. By identifying what’s important, you can choose care that fits with your health and		6
well-being priorities.		6
Each of us has the power to impact our well-being. Whole Health offers health coaching, skills, and the support you need to make the changes you want! Many		6
of our coaches, partners, and peer specialists are Veterans who participate in		6
Whole Health themselves.		6
Wondering where to set your foot on the Whole Health journey (or even restart your Whole Health journey?), start right here at Pathway!		6
includes partners, coaches and peer-support specialists who work with you to guide and support you in discovering your Mission, Aspiration, and Purpose (MAP) in life. When you explore your MAP, you can then start a Personal Health Plan with a Pathway team member and optimize your health and well-being.		6
Whole Health Pathway		6
Pathway team members partner with you in exploring all areas in the Circle of Health, which is a diagram that helps guide the conversation, assess how you are doing in each area, and then decide which area you would like to focus on first.		6
Areas include Moving the Body, Surroundings, Personal Development, Food and Drink, Recharge, Power of the Mind, Spirit & Soul, and Family, Friends & Co-workers. Veterans also have access to our website:		6
www.wellvets.com		6
Figure		7
Pathway team members		7
Pathway team members		7
Pathway team members		7
7
can also provide information and help you make those		7
connections to clinical care in Whole Health. Weight Management, Acupuncture, Biofeedback,		7
Healing Touch, and Chiropractic care are among the many options available. A variety of		7
Whole Health Classes and resources are also available to help you on your Whole Health		7
journey.		7
Veterans and their families/caregivers are invited to learn more about Whole Health by		7
Veterans and their families/caregivers are invited to learn more about Whole Health by		7
attending an orientation, offered Monday-Friday, either in-person, virtually, or over the phone.		7
Contact the Whole Health team directly at		7
Contact the Whole Health team directly at		7
314-289-6583		7
7
to start your journey to Whole Health and what matters to you.		7
No referral from your VA primary care doctor required!		7
No referral from your VA primary care doctor required!		7
Story		7
Whole Health offers classes or individual sessions for:		7
Whole Health offers classes or individual sessions for:		7
• Acupuncture		7
• Acupuncture		7
• Battlefield Acupuncture (BFA)		7
• Battlefield Acupuncture (BFA)		7
• Biofeedback		7
• Biofeedback		7
• Chiropractic		7
• Chiropractic		7
• Health Coaching		7
• Health Coaching		7
• Meditation/Mindfulness		7
• Meditation/Mindfulness		7
• Nutrition		7
• Nutrition		7
• Nutrition		7
• Personal Development		7
• Personal Development		7
• Spirit and Soul		7
• Spirit and Soul		7
• Tai Chi		7
• Tai Chi		7
• Weight Management		7
• Weight Management		7
• Yoga		7
• Yoga		7
• And so much more!		7
• And so much more!		7
Figure		8
Figure		8
Figure		8
Figure		8
Figure		8
Figure		8
Figure		8
Figure		8
Figure		8
Our Veteran Athletes attend National		9
Our Veteran Athletes attend National		9
Our Veteran Athletes attend National		9
Summer Sports Clinic in San Diego!		9
Summer Sports Clinic in San Diego!		9
The National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic		9
The National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic		9
The National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic		9
promotes rehabilitation of		9
body and spirit by teaching summer sporting activities to Veterans with		9
significant physical or psychological impairments. The clinic features		9
adaptive surfing, sailing, cycling (hand and tandem), adaptive fitness		9
and kayaking. There is no cost for qualified Veterans to attend.		9
This year, Team St. Louis was comprised of Nine Veteran Athletes and five		9
This year, Team St. Louis was comprised of Nine Veteran Athletes and five		9
Recreation Therapists. Many of these Veterans also participate in other		9
national atheletic activities like the National Veteran Golden Age Games		9
and National Veteran Wheelchair Games.		9
Interested in participating? Veterans who are receiving care at VA St.		9
Interested in participating? Veterans who are receiving care at VA St.		9
Louis Health Care System can contact their primary care provider and		9
ask for a		9
RT Leisure Education Consult JB.		9
9
During Veteran assessment,		9
your Rec Therapist can discuss the variety of outpatient options available!		9
"At Summer Sports Clinic, I went surfing for the		9
"At Summer Sports Clinic, I went surfing for the		9
"At Summer Sports Clinic, I went surfing for the		9
first time in my life. I couldn't stand up on the		9
board but I got up of my hands and knees. And I		9
was surfing! And we went sailing...first time I'd		9
ever sailed in my life. That was great, you know,		9
to pull on those rings and control those sails was		9
wonderful.		9
We all come from different parts of the world.		9
We all come from different parts of the world.		9
We meet up in these games and clinics and we all		9
had to be as one team, as one family to make it		9
work. That's the best thing about it. Veterans as		9
family and friends.		9
- Charles Hampton, U.S. Navy Veteran		9
- Charles Hampton, U.S. Navy Veteran		9
Figure		8
Figure		10
Recognized as a Provider of Choice		10
Recognized as a Provider of Choice		10
Recognized as a Provider of Choice		10
•		10
•		10
Increase the number of Veteran Enrollees and Users.		10
• Connect Veterans to the Soonest and Best Care.		10
• Connect Veterans to the Soonest and Best Care.		10
• Serve Veterans with Military Environmental Exposures.		10
• Serve Veterans with Military Environmental Exposures.		10
• Create an aesthetic environment that is welcoming, clean, and inviting.		10
• Create an aesthetic environment that is welcoming, clean, and inviting.		10
• Engage with our Veterans to create a welcoming experience at our care locations.		10
• Engage with our Veterans to create a welcoming experience at our care locations.		10
• Support Veteran’s whole health, their caregivers, and survivors.		10
• Support Veteran’s whole health, their caregivers, and survivors.		10
• Accelerate VASTLHCS’ journey to a High Reliability Organization.		10
• Accelerate VASTLHCS’ journey to a High Reliability Organization.		10
• Provide exceptional, high-quality healthcare to all Veterans, achieving positive		10
• Provide exceptional, high-quality healthcare to all Veterans, achieving positive		10
outcomes across all patient populations.		10
Recruit and Retain A World Class Healthcare Team		10
Recruit and Retain A World Class Healthcare Team		10
• Hire Faster by creating a competitive hiring and on-boarding timeline, through efficient		10
• Hire Faster by creating a competitive hiring and on-boarding timeline, through efficient		10
processes, active communication, creative recruitment strategies, and real time monitoring		10
of productivity.		10
• Develop a comprehensive marketing plan to attract high quality candidates to the		10
• Develop a comprehensive marketing plan to attract high quality candidates to the		10
VA St Louis Healthcare System.		10
• Develop a comprehensive System wide employee reward and recognition program.		10
• Develop a comprehensive System wide employee reward and recognition program.		10
• Utilize data to understand drivers for satisfaction, engagement, and burnout (Exit Surveys,		10
• Utilize data to understand drivers for satisfaction, engagement, and burnout (Exit Surveys,		10
Stay Interviews, All Employee Survey).		10
• Develop a workforce plan that incorporates critical organizational needs, gaps,		10
• Develop a workforce plan that incorporates critical organizational needs, gaps,		10
and opportunities.		10
• Invite opportunities for staff to have a voice, through idea sharing, input into		10
• Invite opportunities for staff to have a voice, through idea sharing, input into		10
decision-making, transparency, and shared governance.		10
• Develop career pathways through deployment of continuous training, mentorship, and		10
• Develop career pathways through deployment of continuous training, mentorship, and		10
deployment of individual development plans.		10
• Enhance employee wellbeing by promoting a healthy work environment that improves		10
• Enhance employee wellbeing by promoting a healthy work environment that improves		10
satisfaction and work-life balance.		10
• Create an environment that promotes comfort, productivity, and safety.		10
• Create an environment that promotes comfort, productivity, and safety.		10
VA St. Louis Health Care System Establishes FY23 Strategic Priorities		10
VA St. Louis Health Care System Establishes FY23 Strategic Priorities		10
VA St. Louis Health Care System Establishes FY23 Strategic Priorities		10
"The VA St. Louis Health Care System has recently completed the Strategic		11
"The VA St. Louis Health Care System has recently completed the Strategic		11
"The VA St. Louis Health Care System has recently completed the Strategic		11
Planning Cycle, establishing strategies and priorities for the hospital for the		11
Planning Cycle, establishing strategies and priorities for the hospital for the		11
next 1 to 5 years. This is the first published Strategic Plan that VASTLHCS has		11
next 1 to 5 years. This is the first published Strategic Plan that VASTLHCS has		11
had in quite some time, and I am excited to share with you the strategic goals		11
had in quite some time, and I am excited to share with you the strategic goals		11
and objectives that will serve as a roadmap to move our organization forward		11
with direction and intent."		11
11
11
- Candace Ifabiyi, MHA, MSBA, PMP, Medical Center Director.		11
Investing in Today, Resourcing the Future		11
Investing in Today, Resourcing the Future		11
Investing in Today, Resourcing the Future		11
• Optimization of VHA resources.		11
• Optimization of VHA resources.		11
• Enhance clinical and administrative operations and facility, to improve efficiency and		11
• Enhance clinical and administrative operations and facility, to improve efficiency and		11
scheduling practices which would improve access to services for patients.		11
• Optimizing Financial Resources.		11
• Optimizing Financial Resources.		11
• Ensure Data Integrity.		11
• Ensure Data Integrity.		11
• Proactively plan and prepare for an evolution in the Electronic Health Record (EHR).		11
• Proactively plan and prepare for an evolution in the Electronic Health Record (EHR).		11
• Design and implement efficient standard business and leadership practices.		11
• Design and implement efficient standard business and leadership practices.		11
Advocating for Veterans as a Community Leader		11
Advocating for Veterans as a Community Leader		11
• Earn and sustain Veteran trust.		11
• Earn and sustain Veteran trust.		11
• Synergize with our community partners to maximize resources available for Veterans.		11
• Synergize with our community partners to maximize resources available for Veterans.		11
• Cultivating new connections with community partners.		11
• Cultivating new connections with community partners.		11
• Serve as a leader in healthcare preparedness through participation in emergency		11
• Serve as a leader in healthcare preparedness through participation in emergency		11
management.		11
• Promote Veterans’ personal and population health by sharing VA Research and Innovation		11
• Promote Veterans’ personal and population health by sharing VA Research and Innovation		11
projects widely with the Veterans we serve and with our community partners.		11
Figure		11
Top Left corner: John Cochran VA Medical Center, Saint Louis.		11
Top Left corner: John Cochran VA Medical Center, Saint Louis.		11
Bottom Right: Birdseye view of Jefferson Barracks Division in South St. Louis County.		11
Meet Two of our Top Docs here at VASTLHCS!		12
Meet Two of our Top Docs here at VASTLHCS!		12
Meet Two of our Top Docs here at VASTLHCS!		12
12
12
12
Abigail Ramon, PhD.		12
Dr. Ramon		12
Dr. Ramon		12
12
is in a unique position at the VA St. Louis Health Care System, as she works as a Clinical		12
Psychologist in both the Medicine and Primary Care Service lines, while also working as a researcher.		12
She excels at supporting all patients and supports VA’s new ComPACT program.		12
She excels at supporting all patients and supports VA’s new ComPACT program.		12
12
12
Dr. Ramon is a co-lead on research to implement brief mindfulness practice within Primary Care,		12
Dr. Ramon is a co-lead on research to implement brief mindfulness practice within Primary Care,		12
along with faculty from the VA’s Center for Integrated Care. She has also worked with her ComPACT		12
team to propose work on sleep and medical care. Dr. Ramon is a co-lead on research to implement		12
brief mindfulness practice within Primary Care, along with faculty from the VA’s Center for Integrated		12
Care. She has also worked with her ComPACT team to propose work on sleep and medical care.		12
Research for a clinician involves extreme dedication.		12
Research for a clinician involves extreme dedication.		12
Research for a clinician involves extreme dedication.		12
Dr. Ramon has made that happen at our VA. She		12
is always quick to volunteer to help her colleagues		12
wherever she's needed. Her steadfast dedication to		12
Veterans, her flexibility, consistency, positive attitude,		12
and contributions to the field of psychology truly make		12
her one of our Top Docs!		12
Figure		12
"Working with Veterans and sharing		12
"Working with Veterans and sharing		12
"Working with Veterans and sharing		12
their most difficult and joyous times		12
their most difficult and joyous times		12
in their recovery journeys is truly an		12
honor and privilege. I can honestly say		12
I feel like I am making a difference and		12
I feel like I am making a difference and		12
doing something meaningful every day."		12
doing something meaningful every day."		12
- Abigail Ramon, PhD.		12
- Abigail Ramon, PhD.		12
For information on all our VA St. Louis Health Care providers,		12
For information on all our VA St. Louis Health Care providers,		12
scan the QR CODE on the following page or visit our		12
VA St. Louis website:		12
https:/bit.ly/3PHdrpd		12
Ralph Torrence, MD		13
Ralph Torrence, MD		13
Ralph Torrence, MD		13
Dr. Torrence		13
Dr. Torrence		13
exemplifies		13
13
the qualities of a dedicated servant leader.		13
13
13
He joined the St. Louis VA staff in February 2016 as a Staff Urologist		13
He joined the St. Louis VA staff in February 2016 as a Staff Urologist		13
with a clinical faculty appointment at Washington University and		13
was selected as the Chief of Urology in January 2018. In recognition		13
of his numerous contributions, collaborative efforts and supportive		13
leadership style, he was appointed VISN 15 Chief Urologist in 2020.		13
13
13
With strong faith, effort, and determination of will, he has managed		13
With strong faith, effort, and determination of will, he has managed		13
to accommodate a growing population of Veterans in need of urologic		13
care and has been instrumental in expanding the urologic services		13
available at VASTLHCS.		13
13
13
He serves as the VA Site Director for the robust Urology Residency Training program affiliated		13
He serves as the VA Site Director for the robust Urology Residency Training program affiliated		13
with Washington University and has consistently received accolades for his teaching and		13
leadership in making the VA rotation a favorite for the trainees at Washington University.		13
13
13
Dr. Torrence has earned the trust and confidence of everyone that he interacts with, and works		13
Dr. Torrence has earned the trust and confidence of everyone that he interacts with, and works		13
collaboratively to build a strong community that focuses on delivering the best care possible to		13
Veterans. He has always put the needs of patients first.		13
Figure		13
“Serving those who have served our country so well has been my privilege for over seven years here at VA St. Louis Health Care System. We are dedicated to understanding the needs of Veterans and dedicate OUR service to providing them with the best care available.” - Ralph Torrence, MD		13
“Serving those who have served our country so well has been my privilege for over seven years here at VA St. Louis Health Care System. We are dedicated to understanding the needs of Veterans and dedicate OUR service to providing them with the best care available.” - Ralph Torrence, MD		13
Figure		13
Figure		14
Did you know that the VA St. Louis		14
Did you know that the VA St. Louis		14
Did you know that the VA St. Louis		14
Health Care System is home to one		14
of the 50 VA Driver Rehab Clinics		14
nationwide? These clinics train		14
Veterans on how to safely operate		14
vehicles on our nation’s roadways.		14
14
14
Located at Jefferson Barracks Campus in		14
Located at Jefferson Barracks Campus in		14
the basement of Building 52, Occupational		14
Therapists Pat Niewoehner and Tracy		14
Beardsley provide Driver Rehabilitation		14
services to Veterans who travel to JB from		14
across a three state area (Missouri, Illinois,		14
and Kansas). Their job is to evaluate		14
driving safety and ability and make		14
recommendations regarding a person’s		14
ability to drive.		14
An on-road evaluation can determine		14
An on-road evaluation can determine		14
potential for resuming driving as a safe,		14
independent activity after illness or		14
injury. Assistance is provided to Veterans		14
in making decisions regarding vehicle		14
selection, vehicle modifications and		14
adaptive driving controls specifically		14
required to meet individual needs.		14
Evaluation for proper driving equipment		14
Evaluation for proper driving equipment		14
is critical before purchasing a new vehicle		14
or refitting an existing one in order to		14
avoid unnecessary cost. Even if adaptive		14
driving equipment is not required, helpful		14
recommendations can be offered by Driver		14
Rehab Specialists to ensure safe motor		14
vehicle operation.		14
“Having the opportunity to go through		14
“Having the opportunity to go through		14
“Having the opportunity to go through		14
JB drivers rehab program and return to		14
driving will give our family a chance to		14
regain some normalcy and me more		14
independence.		14
To pick up our girls from school or drop		14
To pick up our girls from school or drop		14
them off at a friend’s house will be a		14
blessing I will not take for granted.		14
Adventure awaits and we are so		14
Adventure awaits and we are so		14
excited.”		14
– Monica Riggs, USAF Veteran.		14
– Monica Riggs, USAF Veteran.		14
15
15
15
Driver Rehabilitation Clinic		15
Driver Rehabilitation Clinic		15
at Jefferson Barracks Campus		15
Helping Veterans get safely back on the road after illness or injury.		15
Helping Veterans get safely back on the road after illness or injury.		15
VA funding may be available for drivers who need adaptive equipment and vehicle		15
VA funding may be available for drivers who need adaptive equipment and vehicle		15
VA funding may be available for drivers who need adaptive equipment and vehicle		15
modifications		15
or for a Veteran passenger		15
who needs equipment or vehicle modifications		15
to travel safely.		15
15
Eligibility requirements must be met to determine VA funding for adaptive		15
driving equipment and vehicle modifications.		15
Regardless of a Veterans funding source, if automobile adapted equipment is recommended by		15
Regardless of a Veterans funding source, if automobile adapted equipment is recommended by		15
the Driver Rehabilitation Specialist, Veterans will receive the required training sessions to obtain a		15
prescription for adaptive driving equipment, and information on where to get equipment installed		15
and Department of Motor Vehicle re-licensing with the specific adaptive driving equipment.		15
How does a Veteran get an appointment with Drivers Rehab Clinic?		15
How does a Veteran get an appointment with Drivers Rehab Clinic?		15
How does a Veteran get an appointment with Drivers Rehab Clinic?		15
1.		15
1.		15
1.		15
1.		15
Talk with your Primary Care Provider and ask for a consult.		15
Talk with your Primary Care Provider and ask for a consult.		15
2.		15
2.		15
2.		15
Veteran must have a valid driver’s license or permit.		15
Veteran must have a valid driver’s license or permit.		15
3.		15
3.		15
3.		15
Pre-Driving Screening is performed where Veterans may be asked about:		15
Pre-Driving Screening is performed where Veterans may be asked about:		15
• Driving history		15
• Driving history		15
• Medical conditions		15
• Medical conditions		15
• Daily functioning		15
• Daily functioning		15
• Transfers		15
• Transfers		15
• Type of vehicle currently owned, etc.		15
• Type of vehicle currently owned, etc.		15
4. The following tests will be performed:		15
4. The following tests will be performed:		15
• A physical exam to look at your functional ability like arm and leg movement,		15
• A physical exam to look at your functional ability like arm and leg movement,		15
strength, head and neck movement, reaction time, sensation/neuropathy.		15
strength, head and neck movement, reaction time, sensation/neuropathy.		15
• Vision screening and a road sign recognition test will be performed.		15
• Vision screening and a road sign recognition test will be performed.		15
• Cognitive testing for memory and thinking skills.		15
• Cognitive testing for memory and thinking skills.		15
5. If everything checks out OK, JB Driver Rehab Specialists will provide a road		15
5. If everything checks out OK, JB Driver Rehab Specialists will provide a road		15
test in a VA vehicle.		15
test in a VA vehicle.		15
Ready to hit the road again?		15
Ready to hit the road again?		15
Ready to hit the road again?		15
Contact your VA Primary Care Provider		15
to set up the consult with the		15
JB Driver Rehabilitation Clinic!		15
JB Driver Rehabilitation Clinic!		15
A Conversation about Pain Management		16
A Conversation about Pain Management		16
A Conversation about Pain Management		16
Chronic Pain is a common condition that affects many individuals in the United States.		16
Chronic Pain is a common condition that affects many individuals in the United States.		16
The Gateway Veteran spent a few moments with Interventional Pain Management		16
Specialist and Anesthesiologist, Dr. Kathleen “Kate” Meacham, MD, PhD., to learn		16
more about what VASTLHCS offers Veterans who suffer from chronic pain.		16
Gateway Veteran		16
Gateway Veteran		16
Gateway Veteran		16
: What is Interventional Pain Management?		16
Dr. Meacham		16
Dr. Meacham		16
: Interventional Pain (IP) Management is the part of Comprehensive Pain		16
Management that involves injections, procedures, and devices for reducing or blocking pain.		16
Usually these procedures are injection-based and can promote healing, reduce inflammation,		16
and/or change the way that pain is felt by the body.		16
We work for and with the Veteran--		16
We work for and with the Veteran--		16
based on what is important to them--and what works best		16
for their pain management goals.		16
As our VA’s IP specialist, I work closely with the Veteran’s entire		16
healthcare provider team to ensure that each Veteran has a coordinated and comprehensive plan		16
for meeting their chronic pain needs.		16
Gateway Veteran		16
Gateway Veteran		16
: Tell us about patients who come to see you for Pain Management.		16
Dr. Meacham		16
Dr. Meacham		16
: More than 1 in 5 adults		16
*		16
in America experience chronic pain, with numbers being		16
even higher for Veterans. Many suffer in silence, so it’s very rewarding when we get a chance to		16
help. Veterans of every age, race, and gender come to see us for their Pain Management, which		16
means I get to meet (and help) all types of amazing Veterans as part of my job. I can’t express		16
enough what a tremendous privilege that is for me, every day.		16
Gateway Veteran		16
Gateway Veteran		16
: What types of treatments are available?		16
Dr. Meacham		16
Dr. Meacham		16
: Available treatments for managing chronic pain are growing, both in the field of		16
Pain Management as well as here at our VA. We most recently added a procedure called “Radio		16
Frequency Ablation” that target nerves in the back and knee. So many of my VA colleagues went		16
above and beyond to make sure that I could do this, because they knew it would be of great		16
benefit for our Veterans. With their support and guidance, I will continue to add procedures		16
benefit for our Veterans. With their support and guidance, I will continue to add procedures		16
based on what our Veterans need the most.		16
based on what our Veterans need the most.		16
Let me add that if we don’t offer a specific procedure here, we can connect our Veterans with		16
Let me add that if we don’t offer a specific procedure here, we can connect our Veterans with		16
providers who do. As a field, Pain Management can target every aspect of the chronic pain		16
providers who do. As a field, Pain Management can target every aspect of the chronic pain		16
pathway, including nerves, muscles, joints, bones, spinal cord, and the brain. If we don’t offer		16
pathway, including nerves, muscles, joints, bones, spinal cord, and the brain. If we don’t offer		16
a procedure or technique here, we know about what options are available and what evidence		16
a procedure or technique here, we know about what options are available and what evidence		16
exists for their safety and effectiveness.		16
exists for their safety and effectiveness.		16
* Refs: Yong, R. Jason et al, Prevalence of chronic pain among adults in the United States,		16
* Refs: Yong, R. Jason et al, Prevalence of chronic pain among adults in the United States,		16
Pain 163(2): p e328-e332, February 2022		16
Gateway Veteran		17
Gateway Veteran		17
Gateway Veteran		17
: You mention something called “Radio Frequency Ablation” What is this?		17
Dr. Meacham:		17
Dr. Meacham:		17
Radio Frequency Ablation (also called RF Ablation) involves using small needles to		17
“burn” nerves that are transmitting pain.		17
But we’re not actually burning them		17
: it’s an electrical		17
signal that stuns the nerves into not transmitting the pain. I love talking about the science behind		17
all of what we do and thinking of new ways we might better help our chronic pain patients. There’s		17
so much more for us to learn and do as a field.		17
17
17
Gateway Veteran		17
Gateway Veteran		17
: I’ve got a Pain Management appointment with you. What can I expect?		17
Dr. Meacham		17
Dr. Meacham		17
: Usually by the time you’re seeing me, you’ve also seen one of my colleagues		17
who has discussed procedures both with you and with me, or I have met and talked with you		17
who has discussed procedures both with you and with me, or I have met and talked with you		17
about your recommended chronic pain treatment options, including procedures. Either way,		17
about your recommended chronic pain treatment options, including procedures. Either way,		17
we base our pain management procedure recommendations on your symptoms, imaging, and		17
we base our pain management procedure recommendations on your symptoms, imaging, and		17
what has and hasn’t worked for you in the past. When you meet me for any treatments or proce		17
-		17
dures, we’ll have time to go over any final questions, and then you and I get to focus on getting the		17
procedure done as efficiently and comfortably as possible, alongside my team of excellent nurses		17
and radiology technicians.		17
Gateway Veteran		17
Gateway Veteran		17
: What should I bring with me to my appointment?		17
Dr. Meacham		17
Dr. Meacham		17
: For our Veterans in pain, just getting to the appointment can be hard, and is more		17
than enough for us! We’ll work with you on anything else we need, which is most usually records		17
from outside sources. Bringing those with you to the appointment helps us help you faster, but		17
don't fret if you can't get these records right away as there are other options available.		17
Gateway Veteran:		17
Gateway Veteran:		17
Anything else you would like us to know?		17
Dr. Meacham		17
Dr. Meacham		17
: If you’re a Veteran in pain, the best way to connect with our services is through your		17
primary care provider. Don’t suffer in silence. Please reach out to them, and we will be very glad		17
to work with you to meet your goals.		17
"Here in Interventional Pain Management,		17
"Here in Interventional Pain Management,		17
I will do my utmost to cater treatments to		17
you in-house or connect you with a		17
community provider. I'm adding new		17
community provider. I'm adding new		17
options in-house regularly, so what I		17
options in-house regularly, so what I		17
offer here will grow over time. We want		17
offer here will grow over time. We want		17
our Veterans to be as free from chronic		17
our Veterans to be as free from chronic		17
pain as possible. "		17
pain as possible. "		17
-Kate Meacham, MD, PhD.		17
-Kate Meacham, MD, PhD.		17
Figure		17
Figure		18
The Chapels		18
The Chapels		18
The Chapels		18
located at John Cochran Hospital and Jefferson Barracks		18
Campus are open to all religious preferences and faith practices		18
for prayer, meditation, and contemplation, except during		18
scheduled worship times and other announced activities.		18
scheduled worship times and other announced activities.		18
For communion, sacraments, or other pastoral care needs, please		18
For communion, sacraments, or other pastoral care needs, please		18
contact Chaplain Service for support. Call:		18
(314) 894-6566		18
John Cochran Chapel		18
John Cochran Chapel		18
John Cochran Chapel		18
Location: Building 2, Room 15		18
Location: Building 2, Room 15		18
JC Chapel Worship Service Times		18
JC Chapel Worship Service Times		18
PROTESTANT:		18
PROTESTANT:		18
Wednesday 11:00 AM		18
Wednesday 11:00 AM		18
ROMAN CATHOLIC:		18
ROMAN CATHOLIC:		18
Tuesday 11:00 AM		18
Tuesday 11:00 AM		18
Jefferson Barracks Chapel		18
Jefferson Barracks Chapel		18
Jefferson Barracks Chapel		18
Location: Building 54		18
Location: Building 54		18
Room 1B-100		18
Room 1B-100		18
Blessed Sacrament Chapel: 1B-100C		18
Blessed Sacrament Chapel: 1B-100C		18
JB Chapel Worship Service Times		18
JB Chapel Worship Service Times		18
PROTESTANT:		18
PROTESTANT:		18
Weds 3:30PM & Sunday 10:00 AM		18
Weds 3:30PM & Sunday 10:00 AM		18
ROMAN CATHOLIC:		18
ROMAN CATHOLIC:		18
Saturday 12:00 PM		18
Saturday 12:00 PM		18
JB Inpatient Rooms: Tune to Channel 28		18
JB Inpatient Rooms: Tune to Channel 28		18
The Chapels at Jefferson Barracks and John Cochran are OPEN to Veterans, Caregivers, Staff, and Visitors. Need support?		19
The Chapels at Jefferson Barracks and John Cochran are OPEN to Veterans, Caregivers, Staff, and Visitors. Need support?		19
An Inpatient Visit? Call our		19
Chaplain Service at 314-894-6566.		19
Figure		19
Three Reasons you haven’t changed		20
Three Reasons you haven’t changed		20
Three Reasons you haven’t changed		20
Raise your hand if you made a New Years resolution.		20
Raise your hand if you made a New Years resolution.		20
Now keep your hand up if you have kept your resolution.		20
20
Congratulations if your hand is still up!		20
20
If you have given up on your resolution, you are not alone.		20
If you have given up on your resolution, you are not alone.		20
If you have given up on your resolution, you are not alone.		20
Many people with good		20
intentions in January often find themselves back to their old ways long before the calendar flips		20
to a new month. What makes sticking to resolutions difficult? Here are 3 reasons you may be		20
struggling to make healthy changes:		20
You aren’t realistic.		20
You aren’t realistic.		20
Did you swear off chocolate for the rest of your life? There is nothing		20
more tempting than what is forbidden. Instead of telling yourself you will		20
“never”		20
have a sweet		20
again, think about how you could cut back without giving it up completely.		20
You don’t have a supportive environment.		20
You don’t have a supportive environment.		20
A pantry full of potato chips and chocolate and a		20
freezer full of ice cream is not going to help you tackle your weight loss goals.		20
You don’t have a plan		20
You don’t have a plan		20
. A goal without a plan is just a dream! While losing weight and quitting		20
smoking are great goals that can improve your health, you need to make a plan to achieve goals.		20
Health Promotion & Disease Prevention (HPDP) Programs Can Help You!		20
Health Promotion & Disease Prevention (HPDP) Programs Can Help You!		20
HPDP specializes in helping people change their health behaviors. We help people make plans		20
HPDP specializes in helping people change their health behaviors. We help people make plans		20
HPDP specializes in helping people change their health behaviors. We help people make plans		20
to meet their goals with the following weekly group classes:		20
MOVE!		20
MOVE!		20
Learn how to set goals and change behaviors to help you lose the right amount of		20
weight for you.		20
Smoking Cessation:		20
Smoking Cessation:		20
Get the right medication and learn new behaviors to help you quit smoking		20
for good!		20
Diabetes Self-Management:		20
Diabetes Self-Management:		20
Let us help you build the skills you need to manage your diabetes		20
and support your health.		20
Coping with Overeating:		20
Coping with Overeating:		20
Learn how to develop a healthy relationship with food.		20
Healthy Teaching Kitchen:		20
Healthy Teaching Kitchen:		20
Healthy eating starts with learning how to prepare meals at home!		20
Ready to learn more? You do not need a referall from a primary care doctor to talk with us.		20
Ready to learn more? You do not need a referall from a primary care doctor to talk with us.		20
Call		20
Call		20
314-289-6503		20
20
to ask questions and to schedule your appointment today!		20
Figure		21
Ingredients		21
Ingredients		21
Ingredients		21
1 1/2 cups unsweetened frozen berries of choice, divided		21
1 1/2 cups unsweetened frozen berries of choice, divided		21
1 medium banana		21
1 medium banana		21
1/2 ripe avocado (pitted and peeled)		21
1/2 ripe avocado (pitted and peeled)		21
1 cup milk (1%, 2%, or plant-based milk)		21
1 cup milk (1%, 2%, or plant-based milk)		21
Optional Smoothie Bowl Toppings:		21
Optional Smoothie Bowl Toppings:		21
1/2 cup blackberries		21
1/2 cup blackberries		21
2 Tablespoons sliced almonds		21
2 Tablespoons sliced almonds		21
1 Tablespoon chia seeds		21
1 Tablespoon chia seeds		21
1 Tablespoon mini chocolate chips		21
1 Tablespoon mini chocolate chips		21
Dash of cinnamon		21
Dash of cinnamon		21
Directions		21
Directions		21
1. Add all smoothie bowl ingredients into a blender. Blend on high until smooth		21
1. Add all smoothie bowl ingredients into a blender. Blend on high until smooth		21
2. Divide into two bowls and sprinkle toppings, dividing evenly.		21
2. Divide into two bowls and sprinkle toppings, dividing evenly.		21
3. Enjoy immediately.		21
3. Enjoy immediately.		21
Feel free to top your smoothie bowl with		21
Feel free to top your smoothie bowl with		21
Feel free to top your smoothie bowl with		21
alternative toppings of your choice. Some		21
people like to add banana slices, coconut		21
shreds, granola, walnuts, or pecans!		21
Figure		22
Ingredients		22
Ingredients		22
Ingredients		22
1 medium bell pepper		22
1 medium bell pepper		22
1 small red onion		22
1 small red onion		22
2 (15-ounce) cans black-eyed peas		22
2 (15-ounce) cans black-eyed peas		22
1 (15.25-ounce) can corn kernels, no salt added		22
1 (15.25-ounce) can corn kernels, no salt added		22
3 Tablespoons canola oil		22
3 Tablespoons canola oil		22
2 Tablespoons vinegar		22
2 Tablespoons vinegar		22
1 teaspoon cumin		22
1 teaspoon cumin		22
1/4 teaspoon salt		22
1/4 teaspoon salt		22
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper		22
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper		22
Directions		22
Directions		22
1. Rinse and dice bell pepper, removing core and seeds.		22
1. Rinse and dice bell pepper, removing core and seeds.		22
2. Peel, rinse, and dice onion.		22
2. Peel, rinse, and dice onion.		22
3. In a colander, drain and rinse black-eyed peas and corn.		22
3. In a colander, drain and rinse black-eyed peas and corn.		22
4. In a large bowl, add pepper, onion, peas, corn, cilantro (if using), and remaining		22
4. In a large bowl, add pepper, onion, peas, corn, cilantro (if using), and remaining		22
ingredients. Mix well.		22
Recipe Notes		22
Recipe Notes		22
• Dried black-eyed peas may be cheaper than canned. If using dried, cook according to package directions until peas are soft but not mushy. Drain, rinse, and add 3 cups cooked peas to salad.		22
• Use any type of vinegar you have on hand. You can use balsamic, apple-cider, or red/white wine vinegar.		22
Figure		23
Figure		23
Virtual Health		23
Virtual Health		23
Virtual Health		23
Resource Center		23
now Open at JB		23
to assist Veterans		23
and Caregivers!		23
(Walk-ins, emails & phone calls welcomed!)		23
(Walk-ins, emails & phone calls welcomed!)		23
Join us in the “No judgement zone”		23
Join us in the “No judgement zone”		23
Join us in the “No judgement zone”		23
where we understand that technology can		23
be confusing at times! If you or Veterans in your care need assistance with		23
MyHealtheVet or any number of other VA related Apps, The Virtual Health Resource		23
Center is		23
OPEN		23
Mon-Fri 8am-3pm at Jefferson Barracks in Bldg 1., Room 1W20.		23
Walk-ins are always welcome, in fact encouraged!		23
Can't make it to JB, but still have questions? Call the VHRC Team at		23
Can't make it to JB, but still have questions? Call the VHRC Team at		23
314-652-4100 ext. 68048		23
314-652-4100 ext. 68048		23
or email		23
STLVHRC@va.gov		23
. We're here to help.		23
Figure		24
Find your career here with us! For information on		24
Find your career here with us! For information on		24
Find your career here with us! For information on		24
VA careers and links to current openings, go to:		24
24
24
https://vacareers.va.gov/		24
Once there, type		24
Once there, type		24
St. Louis, MO		24
into Location box		24
below "Find your career at VA" then click on		24
below "Find your career at VA" then click on		24
24
Search USAJOBS		24
to see all our opportunities!		24

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