Department of Veterans Affairs

Forward Observer — Nehmer Decision Comes to Any Vietnam Veteran Exposed to Herbicides

VA to readjudicate past claims for possible herbicide exposure

On 14 May, the VA formally announced that military veterans who were previously denied service connection for an herbicide related presumptive condition due to lack of in-country Vietnam service will have their claims automatically readjudicated by VA.  “Readjudication means VA will review the evidence of record and provide replacement decisions in the cases of those who were previously denied service connection benefits,” said Acting VA Under Secretary for Benefits Thomas Murphy.  The review also applies to eligible survivors of deceased Vietnam-era veterans, an issue of significance nowadays due to past VA delays. (more…)

By LVMAC, ago

LVMAC Tidbit: You Are Remembered

Little noted, Gold Star Spouse Day was observed on 5 April 2021, but you are not forgotten: For more information on how to proceed, your best bet is to see an accredited veterans service officer. ### As of 15 April 2021

By LVMAC, ago

LVMAC Tidbit: VA Pushing Automated Travel Claims

Brand-New Beneficiary Travel Self-Service System (BTSSS)

The Veterans Health Administration is urging those who seek travel reimbursement to use an automated, self-serve system through a newly released, six-part video series. See below. Hopefully they will not abuse those veterans who do not have access to the internet, something that is common in Pennsylvania, especially among the older veterans — but not necessarily so.

(more…)
By LVMAC, ago

LVMAC Tidbit: Wilkes-Barre VAMC Changes Its COVID-19 Guidance — What a Difference Three Days Make

Today, just after publishing over the weekend the Wilkes-Barre VAMC’s 5 February call-out to those veterans 75 or older, Wilkes-Barre VAMC again changed its policy.  Now you can be 65 or older and can get the vaccine at your local clinic.

What is next?   We have heard that some VA Medical Centers are enrolling veterans on-site with proof of a DD Form 214, if they have not been using the VA healthcare system.

Stand by for news.

Here is the new policy: (more…)

By LVMAC, ago

LVMAC Tidbit: Wilkes-Barre VAMC “Don’t Call Policy” Ends for COVID-19

Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center has just announced it is issuing the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to those 75 and older under the conditions below.  No doubt because of special storage requirements, the vaccine will only be issued at the Medical Center itself and not from closer outpatient clinics — not exactly the best option for a 75 year old or, for that matter, anyone who lives in the Lehigh Valley.

However, it is a good step forward; and considering the vaccines are free no matter the source, you have more local options already. (more…)

By LVMAC, ago

LVMAC Tidbit: VA Asks for COVID-19 Volunteers

As part of fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is recruiting volunteers for COVID-19 clinical trials on treatments and vaccines at select VA facilities across the country. Anyone over the age of 18 can volunteer: Veterans, family members and friends. To learn more and to sign up Read more…

By LVMAC, ago