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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSubmittal 2SPECIAL A IlEALIlI CARE li1.IG113II.1'1'Y FOR VETE1{AJNS Wil 0 SLRVED ITT (1OMRA'I' 111 EATLRS Vet December 2003 bto The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has implemented policies and procedures providing for 2 years — beginning on the date of separation from active duty military service — free health care services and nursing home care for veterans who served in certain combat locations during their active military service. Who is eligible? Veterans are eligible if they served on active duty in a theater of combat operations during a period of war after the Gulf War or in combat against a hostile force during a period of "hostilities" after November 11, 1998, and have been discharged under other than dishonorable conditions. What is meant by "hostilities?" "Hostilities" is defined as a conflict in which the service member is faced with danger comparable to that experienced in combat during a war. Are National Guard and Reserve members also eligible? Yes, under certain conditions. National Guard and Reserve members are eligible for VA health care if they were ordered to active duty by a federal declaration, served the full period for which they were called or ordered to active duty, and have separated from active military service under other than dishonorable conditions. What form should those seeking care bring to VA? Active duty, National Guard and Reserve members who were activated to a combat mission and then separated from active duty receive a DD Form 214, and are eligible for this program. - ,s/? , // Individuals seeking services under this authority should bring their DD 214 when reporting to a VA health care facility. What is covered? This benefit covers all illnesses and injuries except those clearly unrelated to military service. A common cold, injuries from accidents that occurred after discharge, and disorders that existed before joining the military are examples of conditions that would not be covered. Care may not be provided for any disability found to have resulted from a cause other than the military service in an area of combat operations. Veterans seeking treatment for health conditions possibly related to combat operations are evaluated by means of a physical examination and appropriate diagnostic studies. In making this determination, the physician must consider that the following types of conditions are not ordinarily considered to be due to occupational or military service: (1) Congenital or developmental conditions, for example scoliosis, (2) Conditions which are known to have existed before military service, and (3) Conditions that have a specific and well -established cause and that began after military combat service. Coverage extends for a two-year period following separation from active military service. Dental services are not included. What has changed? Unlike other veterans who do not have VA -adjudicated service -connected conditions, veterans who qualify under this special eligibility authority are not subject to VA means testing or copayment requirements. There is no burden placed on these veterans to prove that their health problems are related to their military service or prove that they have low income to qualify for cost-free VA health care. What happens after the two years? The copayment status will depend on whether the veteran's illness or injury is found to be service - connected or whether the veteran is otherwise qualified for VA health care. Each veteran will be enrolled for VA health care in the appropriate priority group. Some veterans — those in the lowest priority group — whose income is above the means test threshold must agree to make required copayments. Where can a veteran get additional inforration? Additional information is available at the nearest VA medical facility. The telephone number can be found in the local telephone directory under the "U.S. Government" listings. Veterans can also call toll -free: 1-800-827-1000 or 1-877-222-8387. IB 10-162 December 2003 Veterans Health Administration Washington, DC 20420 i Department of in Veterans Affairs VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION Submitted Into the public record in connection w'th item n3._1on o C. Priscilla A. Thompson C'ty Clerk t" 4MX V.4. ME1ICA. I C.E1ir7' l) OD Cii iC' IP0_E # My HealtheVet Gateway to Optimal Health Enter VA's new Veteran Health Portal Discover what VA has for you and your family Log on to www.myhealth.va.gov Begin the journey today... 142the Vd 305-57..5-7077 30.E-.s 7 -3417 i‘wZ Department of Veterans Affairs FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 16, 2005 Office of Public Affairs Media Relations Washington, DC 20420 (202) 273-6000 www.va.gov News Release VA ]Prescription Co -Pays toIncrease by $1_. WASHINGTON — Co -payments for outpatient medicines prescribed through Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities will rise by $1, according to an announcement today by VA. The $1 increase for a 30-day supply of prescription drugs will take effect on January 1, 2006, the first change in VA prescription drug co -payments in four years. "Through sound management practices, efficient pharmacy operations and price negotiations that put veterans first, VA has been able to contain prescription drug costs," said the Honorable R. James Nicholson, Secretary of Veterans Affairs, noting that co - payments paid by veterans will still be lower than similar expenses in the private sector. The increase to $8 from $7 for a 30-day supply of prescription drugs is required by federal law, which bases VA's co -payments for outpatient prescriptions on increases in the Medical Consumer Price Index. The $1 increase will not affect veterans who have an injury or illness connected with their military service resulting in a 50 percent or greater disability. Also known as "Priority Group 1" veterans, these patients will see no change in their current prescription drug benefit, Nicholson said. Other veterans with less pronounced service -connected ailments — those classified as Priority Groups 2 through 6 — will see their prescription drug co -pays rise by $1, but their annual out-of-pocket expenses for VA medicine will remain capped. The new cap will rise to $960 per year, up $120 from the previous level. This means veterans in Priority Groups 2 through 6 will pay no more than $960 annually for VA outpatient medicine. -more- Submitted Into the public record in connection with itemD3.1 on'i->7-�` Priscilla A. Thompson Citv Clerk EUGIEILITY FACTS FOR 2006 NET WCRT4 DEVELOPMENT Veterans whose income plus assets exceed the threshold established by Congress (currently $60,00:1 and up) are required to make co -payment far their care. 2006-?ncame- hreshalds No Dependents One dependents Two dependents Three dependents. Four dependents Fve dependents Below Means Test Threshold $26, 902 $32;285 $:34, CS1. $:35,397 37, 703 $29,609 Add 41,306 to each category for additional dependent above five. Above Means Test Threshold $26,9 J3 $32,2E6 $ 4, 092 $25,398 $37,7f04 Those veterans that are not Means Test Co pay exempt veterans must agree to pay payments to be eligible for VA care. if the veteran does not agree to make co -payments veteran wilt be charged to ail care provided and will be irteiigicle for VA Care. 2006 :Maximum Pe.nsian Rate Base Rate Veteran with one dependent Far each additional dependent add $10,5 7 9.00 $13, a55.00 $ 1, 306.00 Note: The base pension rate is also used to determine if certain veterans are subiject to co - payments far extended care services. 2006 o-Psvment Amounts Primer/ Care visit - Speciaity Care visit Hospital Care GMT Rate. f ona Term tare Nursing :;crane Care inpatient Geriatric `ialuaticn inpatient Respite Adult%y_ Car_ Outcatient'_enatrie _!aluaticn utcatient <escrte ferrnc ar' ::are $15_00 $0.00 $952.00 (per 90 days).+$10.00 per day. 190.40 (per 94 days) +$ 2.00 per day. :Z97 per Lay. 397 per :av per iaV :5 0 5 Tier_ av 315 `-.:ter Yav .1'nr-...�..V ar ':ay co - the Submitted Into the public record in connectioi wi h item D5-1 on y1 0 Priscilla A. Thompson City Clerk 73.rr7! -:mmiou Ty "'!Ifi ;i' - 'prer_n :ererar. . .-. •..T' nt ..^:1 r-•^-r • f. w...-.....-... --. -. .. Welcome New Veteran Patients! Come join us -for -the-New Pati-ent 0-rie-n-ta-tUo-n Class -to learn about the following services offered to you at the Miami VA: • Benefits • Eligibility • Pharmacy • Patient Education • Social Work • Patient . Advocate • Primary Care Visits This class is FREE! 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month 9:00 am Room B-939 (9th floor) To register or ask questions call:submitted Into the public record in connection with item t3.1 on 41 i1o 4 _ _ _ _ :,k �- Priscilla A. Thompson City Clerk Patient Health Education at Submitted Into the • :lic record in connect item 1)3. o i a` Veterans of hom • son City Cie a> Department of Veterans Affairs Operation Iraqi Freedom Operation Enduring Freedom The mission of the Miami VA Health Care System is to provide quality, timely and excellent patient care. The Miami VA Health Care System offers a wide variety of medical and psychosocial services to our returning veterans. If you reside in Miami -Dade County, contact Miami VA Medical Cen- ter where you will be assigned to the Department of Defense (DoD) Primary Care Team, Room 1E113, at (305) 575-7077 for your medical needs. You may also contact the following: • For social service needs and/or placement on the Persian Gulf Registry, Contact Lillian Foley, LCSW, Persian Gulf Coordinator, Room C507C, at (305) 575-7000, extension 3528 or Richard Mendez, LCSW, Room 1 D119A, (305) 575-7000, extension 3029. • If you reside in Broward County, you may contact Nancy Addison, LCSW, or Sherrill Valdes, LCSW at the Oakland Park VA Outpatient Clinic Social Work Service office at (954) 229-7750. • To apply for benefits/disability, contact Richard Johnson, Veterans Service Representative, Room A206, located at Miami VA Medical Center. His telephone number is (305) 575-7000, extension 3068. • For readjustment difficulties, you and your family members can contact Patrick Murphy, Team Leader at Miami Vet Center located at 2700 SW 3rd Avenue, Suite 1A, Miami, Florida. The Miami Vet Center's telephone number is (305) 859-8387. If you reside in Broward County you can contact Bobby White, Team Leader at the Ft. Lauderdale Vet Center located at 713 NE 3rd Avenue, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. The Ft. Lauderdale Vet Center's phone number is (954) 356-7926. We look forward to serving and providing you with the highest quality of assistance and care Miami VA -Health % re System fa fa Vast aem% v4ifa Miami Veterans Broward County Coral Springs VA Primary Care Clinic 9900 West Sample Road, Suite 100 Coral Springs, FL 33065 (954) 575-4940 Deerfield Beach VA Primary Care Clinic 2100 SW 10th Street Deerfield Beach, FL 33442 (954) 570-5572 Hollywood VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic 3702 Washington Street Hollywood Pavilion, Suite 201 Hollywood, FL 33021 (954) 986-1811 Oakland Park VA Outpatient Clinic 5599 N. Dixie Highway Oakland Park, FL 33334 (954) 771-2101, toll -free: 1-888-497-4647 Pembroke Pines VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic 7369 Sheridan Street, Suite 102 Hollywood, FL 33024 (954) 894-1668 Dade County Homestead VA Primary Care Clinic 950 Krome Avenue, Suite 401 Homestead, FL 33030 (305) 248-0874 Miami VA Healthcare for Homeless Veterans 1492 West Flagler Street Miami, FL 33135 (305) 541-5864 Miami VA Health Care System & Outpatient Clinic 1201 NW 16th Street Miami, FL 33125 (305) 324-4455 Miami VA Outpatient Substance Abuse Clinic (OSAC) 1492 West Flagler Street Miami, FL 33135 (305) 541-8435 Monroe County Key Largo VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic 105662 Overseas Highway Key Largo, FL 33037 (305) 451-0164 Key West VA Outpatient Clinic 1300 Douglas Circle Key West, FL 33040 (305) 293-4609 Submitted Into the public record in connector h item 'D3.1 on 4 0 6 Priscilla A. Thomps n CityC 1Vly Nea/the Vet Online Rx Refill Available Summer 2005 Submitted Into the public record in connection with item P3. l on y ` 0G, Priscilla A. Thompson What Can I Do With It? City Clerk ✓= New Features ✓ Submit prescription refill orders online. IWhat Else Can I Do Online? 1 ' Access 3 trusted sources of health information available in the Health Info section: • VA -developed Health Information • MedlinePlus® - government source • Healthwise® - new consumer health education resource replaced HealthGate • In addition, you no longer have to log in to access these valuable health education resources. ' Access you're My HealtheVet ID Number. The. ID is a randomly generated number, .unique to each account that provides additional information security. • Create, maintain and control your own personal health journal:. ■ Add information to your personal health journal about over-the-counter medications, herbals and supplements, allergies, military health history, medical events, tests, and immunizations. ✓ Check the status of refill orders. ✓ View and track your entire prescription history online. ' Record and track contact information, emergency contacts, health care providers, and health insurance information. • • Record and track personal information on VA and non -VA treatment locations. Print a wallet ID card that contains the personal information you enter in your health journal. ' Record and track personal health readings, such as blood pressure or blood sugar, cholesterol, heart rate, body temperature, weight, and pain. ' View and download a virtual tour introducing you to all features of the site. ' Learn about topics from A-Z; e.g. online computer training resources, and subject matter health education. ' Access online HELP tools using mouseovers, clickable pop -ups, and screen HELP pages. Printed by the 01 National Training and Education Office-HSITES For more information visit http://www.myhealth.va.gov My HealtheVet How Do I Know That My Information Is Secure? I =;cord C i tlorpsor. Privacy Promise My HealtheVet uses several levels of security to protect your information: • As a registered user, your account is password protected. • My HealtheVet uses Secure Socket Layer (SSL) technology to scramble your information as it travels from your computer to our computers. SSL is the industry standard encryption software and is among the safest for assuring secure transactions. • My HealtheVet complies with the strict security demands required of all Federal government computer systems and has earned an Authority to Operate. Detailed information on privacy and security is available online at the bottom of every My HealtheVet screen. How Does It Help Me? You Can: • Learn more about your health and medical conditions. • Look up information online to explore options for improving your health. • Maintain up-to-date personal contact information on a wallet -sized ID card. • Enter information about your health status into your private health journal. You decide who gets to see the information. • Keep track of your health status by entering personal health readings information. • Manage your prescription refills and track your prescription history. • Easily link to benefits and resources available in VA and other Federal sources. What Is Planned For Future Releases? I You Will Be Able To: • Read key parts of your actual VA medical record. • View and monitor your appointment dates online. • Give permission for others (e.g., family members, doctors, veteran advocates) to access your health information so that they can help you better understand and manage your information, and fill out forms. • Avoid extra visits to the doctor by giving your doctors permission to see information that you have recorded such as blood pressure, weight, pulse, blood sugar levels, etc. View and track your total co -payment balance online. • Record and track personal information on your level of activity and on your family health history. My HealtheVet... Voluntary • Internet -Based • Secure Putting the veteran in the center of VA health care. My HealtheVet is a web -based application designed specifically as a one -stop shop for veterans and their families. Since November 11, 2003, it has helped veterans work better with healthcare providers to achieve the best possible health. Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Health Administration Office of Information View current features at: http://www.myhealth.va.govl Vol. 2, No. 2 VA SEAMLESS TRANSITION OFFICE HELPS VETERANS GULF VETS pag NMI Jo O1ERATIONS II[AIl1 FREEDOM/ ENI)LJRING FRELI)OM REVIEW www.VA.gov/Gulf War Information for Veterans Who Served in Iraq and Afghanistan and Their Families The goal of the recently established VA Office of Seamless Transition is to ensure that Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) veterans receive timely and high quality benefits and services and that their transition from the military to the VA is seamless and efficient. This is especially important for service members injured in these operations. According to Mr. John Brown, Director of the new office, it is situated at a high level within VA in recognition of the importance that VA attaches to its mission. The office includes representatives from Veterans Benefits Administration and Veterans Health Administration, as well as two active duty Marine Corps Officers. The office is committed to improving the transition for seriously ill and injured service members from the military to VA by: • Prioritizing and streamlining claims processing prior to release from active duty; • Case managing patients' health care and benefit needs; • Improving collaboration and communication between VA and DoD; • Improving outreach to returning service members; and • Ensuring VA staff is educated on transition procedures. Case Management VA employees are stationed at many of the major military treatment facilities (MTFs) receiving casualties from Iraq and Afghanistan. VA staff brief service members about VA benefits, including health care, disability compensation, vo- cational rehabilitation, and employment. VA enrolls these veterans into the VA system and begins the process for ap- plying for service —connected compensation benefits. Begin- ning these processes prior to discharge from military service helps eliminate any gaps in services or benefits. VA social workers help the transfer of veterans from Wal- ter Reed Army Medical Center and other major MTFs to the VA medical center closest to their home or to the most September 2005 appropriate VA facility for the specialized services their medical condition requires. In addition, each VA medical cen- ter and benefits office has identified a point of contact to ensure the seamless transition of these veterans into the VA system. VA Outreach Throughout the Nation, VA officials identify service mem- bers from Iraq or Afghanistan for special outreach efforts. Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom Points of Contact at each VA Regional Office and Medical Center coordinate with DoD discharge staff to ensure a smooth transition to VA services at locations nearest to the veteran's residence after discharge. Through this coordination, the veterans are known at the local VA facilities that process their benefits claims and provide continuing medical care. ALSO 1N THIS ISSUE Roster Now Has More Than 390,000 OIF/OEF Veterans 2 Facts About OIFIOEF Veterans 2 New VA Web Page for OIFIOEF Veterans 2 IOM Committees Look at Gulf War Veterans' Health Issues, Infectious Diseases of Southwest Asia Specialized VA Centers Provide Second Opinion on Undiagnosed Illness Through Extensive Tests, Careful Evaluation 3 About the "Review" 5 How to Get VA Disability Compensation 5 VA Disability Compensation Rates in 2005 6 Operation Iraqi Freedom Veterans and Gulf War 6 Registry Address Changes Submitted Into the public recofd'in"canr eCttpnwith Where to Get Help ...item 1?3-1 Oil.. What's Next Priscilla A. Thompson i'ty'CleriI Department of Veterans Affairs VA developed and distributed pamphlets, brochures, and educational videos designed for returning rvice mem- bers, VA employees, and others involved in this important effort. VA also actively participates in discharge planning and orientation sessions for returning service members. Military services briefings are designed to ensure that ser- vice members are aware of their VA benefits and to provide assistance as needed. Briefings include separation and retirement seminars and pre— and post —deployment briefings as well as the formal Transition Assistance Program. For those leaving active duty due to service —connected medical problems, the out- reach effort is intensified to ensure a full understanding of the VA compensation process and vocational rehabilitation and employment programs. Outreach Activities to Guard/Reserve To ensure our commitment in providing outreach to service members in the Guard/Reserve, VA developed outreach brochures, wallet cards, and a video of VA services/ benefits for those coming home from OEF/OIF and active duty tours throughout the world. VA briefings on health care services and benefits are being conducted at town hall meetings and family readiness groups and during unit drills near the homes of returning Guard/Reservists. VA staff provides counseling, enrollment and disability claims processing assistance at these events as well as referrals for further healthcare, counseling or disability processing. Education of VA Staff To ensure that the commitment is understood and shared at every level of the Department, VA has developed training materials and other tools for our front line staff to assist them in identifying combat veterans so that they can take the steps necessary to ensure the veterans receive timely access to appropriate VA services and benefits. In addition, VA has developed tools to assist VA clinicians in caring for OEF/OIF veterans. In collaboration with DoD, VA developed Clinical Practice Guidelines on two combat veteran health issues: post deployment health and unexplained pain and fatigue. VA also developed several Veterans Health Initiative (VHI) Independent Study Guides relevant to veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. The long—term goal of the Office of Seamless Transition is to institutionalize the process beyond the OEF/OIF con- flicts to all service members transitioning from military to civilian life. For additional information on the seamless transition process and VA benefits and health care, please access our Internet Web site at www.seamlesstransition.va.gov. ROSTER NOW HAS MORE THAN 390,000 OIFIOEF VETERANS The May 2005 combined roster of Operation Iraqi Freedom/ Operation Enduring Freedom already has more than 390,000 veterans who served in those conflicts and then left military service. The roster has been very helpful for the mailing of this newsletter, for planning scientific research, and other purposes. The roster is expected to grow significantly during the next few years even if the number of servicemembers in the Theater of operations declines, because there are troops coming and going on a regular basis. There wasn't a com- plete list of Vietnam veterans until more than 30 years after the end of the conflict. No end to the 1991 Gulf War has been officially declared. Thus, individuals serving in Iraq who are also considered Gulf War veterans and are entitled to receive the Gulf War Registry health examination and other benefits of Gulf War veterans as if they had served in the Gulf War in 1990-1991. When Congress established August 2, 1990, as the start of the Gulf War, it indicated that the end would be a date set by law or Presidential proclamation. Thus far, neither has happened. FACTS ABOUT OIF/OEF VETERANS As of July 18, 2005, we had 391,407 OIF and OEF veter- ans on a combined roster of those who served in either Iraq or Afghanistan and then separated from military service. About 40% (156,990) are active duty troops. The other 60% (236,417) came from the Reserve or National Guard. About 26 percent (101,308) have received VA health care at least once. Only 0.6 percent has been hospitalized in VA. The overall impact on VA health care has been mini- mal. The 101,308 OIF/OEF veterans evaluated by VA in FY 2003-05 represent about 2% of the 4.9 million veterans who received VA health care. Veterans on the roster have presented to VA with a wide range of both medical and psychological conditions. Diagnoses for these veterans cover more than 6,300 different diagnostic codes. The two most common health problems of war veterans have been musculoskeletal ailments, principally joint and back disorders, and dental problems. NEW WEB PAGE FOR OIF/OEF VETERANS The Environmental Agents Service is pleased to announce a new page on its www.VA.gov/EnvironAgent web site devoted to the health concerns of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom veteibmitted Into the public record in connectign with 2 item P3. 1 on �z o Pnsalla A. Thomnann The page contains various VA health fact sheets, all of our newsletter (OIF/OEF Reviews), Under Secretary for Health In- formation Letters, and a poster. All OIF and OEF veterans who have Internet access are invited to log on and explore the page. Interested parties should go to the Environmental Agents Web Site and select "Operations OIF/OEF." IOM COMMITTEES LOOK AT GULF WAR VETERANS' HEALTH ISSUES, INFECTIOUS DISEASES OF SOUTHWEST ASIA Two Committees organized by the National Academy of Sciences' Institute of Medicine (IOM) have recently begun work for VA : n two Gulf War related efforts. Both are part of Congressionally required studies on Gulf War and health. The IOM is a prestigious, independent, scientific advisory group that is not part of the government. It has been estimated that more than one billion dollars has been spent trying to understand and treat Gulf War veterans during the approximate 14 years since the 1990-91 Gulf War. What has been learned from this investment? This is one of the most important questions of the IOM's committee to review the medical literature on Gulf War veterans' health. A new reasearch committee will examine the enormous body of scientific literature now available and could suggest new means to improve the clinical care that VA currently offers to Gulf War veterans. They will answer the question, "Are we missing any good ideas for better diagnoses and treatments for the health problems suffered by these veterans?" The committee will also consider how this information may affect veterans. The committee will also summarize what this health literature can tell us about the nature of veterans' symptoms and illnesses, including unexplained illnesses, diagnosable illnesses, neurological illnesses, reproductive health effects, cancer, disability, mortality, and hospitalizations. This new committee will draw conclusions, when possible, about whether any exposures that may have occurred during deployment to the 1990-91 Gulf War could be associated with the veterans' symptoms and illnesses that came later on. This project is expected to be completed 12 months after beginning, or December 2005. A second IOM committee recently began work on another in the series of Gulf War & Health reports, looking at the possible effects of exposure to infectious diseases. Earlier completed reports focused on depleted uranium, pyridostigmine bromide, sarin, and certain vaccinations (Volume 1, 2000); pesticide and solvents (Volume 2, 2003); 3 and exposure to fuels, pollutants from oil well fires, and certain other synthetic chemicals used by the Department of Defense during the 1991 Gulf War (Volume 3, 2004). Summaries are available at our web site: www.VA.gov/EnvironAgents, and the full report can be seen at www.nap.edu. The IOM is required to include in its report a full discussion of the scientific evidence and reasoning that led to its conclu- sions. Volume 4 should be completed by December 2006. SPECIALIZED VA HEALTH CENTERS PROVIDE SECOND OPINION ON UNEXPLAINED ILLNESSES THROUGH EXTENSIVE TESTS, CAREFUL EVALUATIONS Twenty-four year -old Arthur* of Buffalo, NY, is a patriot. He enlisted in the Army National Guard, was called to active duty, and served honorably during his tour in Operation Iraqi Freedom. But he is sick, and nobody can explain why. He started suffering from fatigue, nausea, and diarrhea and noticed a decrease in his energy level upon returning home from serving in Iraq during 2004-05. Worse yet, his doctors, despite numerous tests, reported that "nothing is wrong." Frustrated, Arthur thought about what he might do. Give up? Not an option! Fortunately, several years ago, the Department of Veterans Af- fairs established a special program to help veterans, who, like Arthur, suffer from real, but undiagnosed illnesses. After ex- haustive examinations at his local VA medical center, Arthur was referred to one of the War Related Illness and Injury Study Centers (WRIISCs), pronounced "risks." There, he underwent an extensive medical evaluation, with enough time to express his concerns, tell his story, and receive individualized recom- mendations. WRIISCs Established in 2001 VA established two WRIISCs in May 2001. The centers, located at VA Medical Centers in Washington, DC, and Fast Orange, NJ, were founded to provide service to combat veterans, families, and health care professionals through clinical care, education, risk communication and research addressing potential environmental exposures and adverse health outcomes. Established to address the health problems of veterans who serve in past and future conflicts, these centers were a rec- ommendation of the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) under Public Law 105-368 (Veterans Program Enhancement Act of 1998, Section 103). The centers replaced the Gulf War Referral Centers and now offer wide-ranging clinical * Not real name. To protect the pri ,�Y, o th' er n, the name has been changed along with personal H'nlu�cls�nt0 the public record in connection with item `1)3.on N \2,1) o (i care to all those who served in combat, not just during the Gulf War. Dr. Han Kang is the director of WRIISC-DC, and Dr. Gudrun Lange heads WRIISC-NJ. While most veterans do not suffer persistent and unexplained symptoms following deployment in a combat zone, it is recognized today that some do return home with undiagnosed illnesses. After thoroughly being evaluated at their local VA Medical Center, the veteran may be eligible to participate in an in-depth evaluation and examination, which serves as a second opinion, at one of the WRIISCs. Criteria for Referral Eligibility to participate in the WRIISC program depends on a thorough referral process coordinated by VA Central Office. Once a veteran has undergone a complete workup at their local VA Medical Center, the VA primary care provider may refer him or her to the WRIISC National Referral Program. However, veterans first must meet the following criteria: • Be referred by a primary care physician; • Have an undiagnosed or difficult to diagnose illness and/or disabling unexplained symptoms • Be medically and psychiatrically stable; and • Be willing to participate in treatment and evaluation recommendations. Accepting a referral, according to WRIISC-DC's Risk Communication Specialist, Aaron Schneiderman, Ph.D., "is dependent upon eligibility, necessity, and the agree- ment that the veteran has something to gain from the eval- uation." Once accepted by the WRIISC National Referral Program, the veteran will be assigned to either the WRIISC in Washington, DC, or the center in New Jersey. Program Specifics The evaluation period at the Washington, DC, or East Orange, NJ, WRIISC lasts 1 to 5 days. A major plus of the WRIISC National Referral Program is that travel arrangements are paid for by both the referring VA Medical Center and the appointed WRIISC. It is the responsibility of the referring VA Medical Center to arrange the veteran's travel to the designated WRIISC. The WRIISC provides travel arrangements for the veteran's return trip home. The purpose of the veteran's visit to a WRIISC is to evaluate war -related health concerns, while providing the veteran with information about his or her condition and potential war -related exposures. "The WRIISCs offer an option to veterans who have not been able to find answers from other providers," stated Dr. Schneiderman. While the WRIISCs are not designed to offer treatment on site, the centers communicate their recommendations and findings to the veteran and his or her hometown VA prima- ry care providers for implementation and followup. This program allows the veteran to become more aware and to help take care of their health. The WRIISCs are proud of their ability to attend to just one patient at a time, which al- lows for an individualized, specific plan of action, unique to every veteran that attends the program. In an effort to educate the many people that care for vet- erans at the various VA medical facilities, the WRIISCs are implementing an employee education campaign that involves a conference series, a new VA Veterans Health Initiative (VHI) independent study guide that will be pro- duced using conference materials, and an employee train- ing module that will be accessible at all hours on the VA intranet. Dr. Schneiderman emphasized that, "education is extremely important because the primary care provider acts as a gatekeeper to the local VA Medical Center and is the veteran's lifeline to optimal medical care." Even though Arthur's evaluation at the WRIISC-DC did not provide him with a cure for his ailments, it did provide him with a plan of action for him and his health care provider that includes recommendations for medications, treatments, and better ways to live. The WRIISCs engage in activities that involve education and outreach to both veterans and health care professionals, in addition to evaluating patients. For additional information about the National Referral Program and the WRIISCs please visit: Submitted Into the public www'.Vk.gav/EnviranAgentsrecord in connection wth WRIISC-DC: wt 'W.tA.gav/eAr d?3 . on L()s-1 04. Priscilla A. Thompson WRIISC-NJ: www.wri.rned.va.gav/ City Clerk Primary care providers who would like to refer a veteran with undiagnosed illnesses can request an evaluation at one of the Centers. VA health care providers who wish to request a referral must contact: Ms. Helen Malaskiewicz Sr. Environ. Health Coordinator Environmental Agents Service (131) VA Central Office 810 Vermont Ave., NW Washington, DC 20420 www.VA.gov/EnviranAgents Tiffany A. Anzalone, Summer 2005 Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities InternforVAsEnvironmental Agents Service, conducted interviews, researched, and prepared this article. Tiffany is a graduate of Boston College and is currently in graduate school at Louisiana State University. 4 ABOUT THE "REVIEW" This is the fourth issue of the "Operations Iraqi Freedom/ Enduring Freedom Review" newsletter. Earlier issues are dated December 2003, June 2004, and February 2005. They are available on line at www.VA.gov/EnvironAgents. The newsletter is written by VA's Environmental Agents Service (EAS). The "Review" is published to provide information to veterans who served in Operations Iraqi Freedom, primarily in Iraq, and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, their families, and others interested in possible long-term health consequences of military service in those conflicts. The "Review" describes actions by VA and others to respond to deployment health related concerns. For past and current issues of the "Review" and additional information, see our Web site at www.VA.gov/EnvironAgents. For related Gulf War Review newsletters or information about the Gulf War, see www.VA.g,ov/GulfWar. The frequency of publication is two to three issues each year. Additional issues will be prepared as needed, when significant developments occur. This issue was completed in late August 2005, and does not include developments that occurred after that time. Comments or questions concerning the content of the "Review" are encouraged. We would be happy to hear from you, any suggestions and ideas for future issues of the newsletter should be sent to the OIF/OEF Review, (131), VA Central Office, 810 Vermont Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20420. Requests for additional copies of this and/or future issues should also be sent torMr. Rosenblum. A limited supply of the prior issues is available. Please specify the quantity and issue'date requested. Questions about the Gulf War Registry examination should be directed to the Environmental Health Coordinator or Environmental Health Clinician located at each VA medical facility. A listing of these VA staff is available online at WIVTG A.gor/EnvironAgents. The telephone number for the nearest VA medical center can be found in the local telephone directory under the "U.S. Government" listings. Assistance is also available from the toll -free VA Gulf War Helpline: 1-800-749-8387. VA benefit offices also have a great deal of information about VA benefit programs. The national toll -free telephone number is 1-800-82` 1000 HOW TO GET VA DISABILITY COMPENSATION (Because of the high level of interest in this subject and the fact that not everyone reads every article in the newsletter, the following article has been updated). Like other veterans, Gulf War veterans are eligible for monthly payments, called disability compensation, from VA if they have service -connected illnesses or injuries. The disability must have been incurred or aggravated during active military service. Furthermore, the service of the veteran must have been terminated from military service through separation or discharge under conditions that were other than dishonorable. Disability compensation varies according to the degree of disability and the number of dependents. Benefits are not subject to Federal or state income tax. The receipt of military retirement pay, disability severance pay, and separation incentive payments known as SSB and VSI (Special Separation Benefits and Voluntary Separation Incentives) also affects the amount of VA compensation paid. The disability ratings range from 0 to 100 percent (in increments of 10 percent). For example, in 2005, a Gulf War veteran with a disability rating of 10 percent receives $108; a veteran with disability rating of 50 percent gets $663; and a veteran who is totally disabled and evaluated at 100 percent receives $2,239 monthly. Veterans with disability ratings between 30 and 100 per- cent are also eligible for monthly allowances for each child. (The amount depends on the disability rating). A veteran who is in need of regular aid and attendance of another person, or who is permanently housebound may be entitled to additional benefits. VA must make that determination before the veteran can get these benefits. Must Apply to Be Considered Compensation is not automatically provided to any veterans. Registry examinations are completely different from OIF and OEF claims for disability compensation. VA veterans service representatives (VSR) can provide the necessary application and assist veterans who need help in completing it. VSR' s are located at all VA Regional Offices, in VA medical centers, and at most VA clinics. For help in locating a VSR near you, call the following toll - free telephone number: 1-800-827-1000. Other Benefits In addition to the compensation program described above, individual veterans may be eligible for the full range of other benefits offered by VA, including education and training, vocational rehabilitation, home loan guarantees, life insurance, pension, burial benefits, and more. To learn more about VA's programs, OIF and OEF veterans and other interested parties can visit the VA home page se wwvw,va.gov or call 1-800-827-10Q0. Submitted Into the public record in connection with 5 item 23=on Dr:aMila A_ Thon'1DSon Ole VA DISABILITY COMPENSATION RATES IN 2005 No Dependents 10% $108 20% $210 30% $324 40% $466 50% $663 60% $839 70% $1,056 80% $1,227 90% $1,380 100% $2,299 Veteran with Spouse Only 30% $363 40% $518 50% $728 60% $917 70% $1,147 80% $1,311 90% $1,497 100% $2,429 For additional rate information, see compensation rate tables online at www.vba.va.gov/bin/21/Rates/compOl.htm OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM VETERANS IN THE GULF WAR REGISTRY Initial examinations through 2003 — 82 Initial examinations through 2004 —1,204 Total examinations, including followups, through 2004 —1,290 For comparison purposes: Total Agent Orange Registry exams -- 420,055 January - March 2005 Agent Orange Registry examinations — 6,709 ADDRESS CHANGES If this newsletter has your old address, please use this form to update our mailing list. Send the completed form to the Gulf War Review, Austin Automation Center (200/397A), 1615 Woodward Street, Austin, TX 78772-0001. If you have access to the Gulf War Review via the VA Web site Www.VA; gov/GulfWar and wish to discontinue receiving a copy by mail, please complete the above form and return it to the Austin Automation Center. If you are receiving more than one copy of the newsletter, please let us know. Write to the address above. Please provide your name, address, social security number and name of the publication. Thank you. Submitted Into the public record in connectio9 with item 2)3. / on 4�/3,%4. Priscilla A. Thompson 6 Check or circle the language that describes your situation. My address has changed, and I would like to continue to — receive the newsletter. I am receiving more than one copy, but I only want to — get a single copy. I don't need to get the newsletter by mail as I can read it at — www.VA/gov/EnvironAgents Other _ (explain) --------------------------- You may use this or other paper. Please indicate which publication that you are receiving as this office puts out 4 national newsletters. Please Print your: First Name Middle Last SSN New Street/RFD/ Military Unit APO/FPO Indicate which if applicable City Alpha State/or APO/FPO Code Zip Code WHERE TO GET HELP Active duty military personnel with questions or concerns about service in Southwest Asia (including Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom) contact your commanding officer or call the Department of Defense (DoD) Gulf War Veterans' Hotline (1-800-796-9699) for information. DoD also offers the "Direct Veterans Hotline," with the toll -free number 1-800-497-6261. Gulf War veterans, including OIF veterans with concerns about their health, should contact their nearest VA medical center. The telephone number can be found in your local telephone directory under Department of Veterans Affairs in the "U.S. Government" listings. Medical car, ° may be available, and a Gulf War Registry examination is also available on request. The VA Gulf War Information Helpline can also provide information and assistance. The toll -free telephone number is 1-800-PGW-VETS (1-800-749-8387). Check our Web sites for more Gulf War information on health care and other benefits (including those for Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom veterans) at www.va.gov/GulfWar, www.va.gov/EnvironAgents, and www.VA.gov. Gulf War veterans in need of marital/family counseling should contact the nearest VA medical center or VA Vet Center, also listed in your phonebook under Department of Veterans Affairs in the "U.S. Government" listings. For additional information about these programs call the Gulf War Information Helpline at 1-800-PGW-VETS (1-800- 749-8387). Gulf War veterans seeking disability compensation for illnesses incurred in or aggravated by military service can contact a Veterans Benefits Counseior at the nearest VA regional office or health care facility at 1-800-827-1000, or call the VA Gulf War Information Helpline at 1-800-PGW- VETS (1-800-749-8387). You can also start a claim online at www.va.gov. Gulf War veterans interested in learning about the wide range of benefit programs administered by VA should con- tact a Veterans Benefits Counselor at the nearest VA regional office or health care facility at 1-800-827-1000, or call the VA Gulf War Information Helpline at 1-800-PGW-VETS (1-800-749-8387). Representatives of veterans service organizations, including The American Legion (1-800-433-3318), Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, (1-800-VFW-1899), and Disabled American Veterans (1-877-426-2338), have been very helpful to Gulf War veterans, especially veterans who are seeking disability compensation. (These organizations are cited as examples. There are many other excellent organizations. VA does not endorse or recom- mend anyone group over another.) County Veterans Service Officers also have been of great help to many military veterans, including those who served in the Gulf War, who are seeking benefits they earned through their service to the Nation. For additional Federal benefit information, see VA's Fed- eral Benefits for Veterans and Dependents booklet. It is updated annually to reflect changes in law and policies. It is available for purchase from the U.S. Government Printing Office (GPO) Superintendent of Documents, Washington, DC 20402. Web site: bookstore.6po.gov. VA's Web pages are updated throughout the year to present the most current information. The VA home page (www.VA.gov) contains links to selec- tions on compensation and pension benefits, health care benefits and services, burial and memorial benefits, etc. WHAT'S NEXT Plans for the next issue of this newsletter include the following articles: • New Research: Mental Health Care Needs Among Recent War Veterans • VA Describes Major Initiatives in Response to OIF/ OEF Veterans at Congressional Hearing • VA OIF/OEF Veterans Health Care Utilization Report Updated • Leishmania More Common Than Thought, Still Very Rare. VA hopes to print and distribute the planned issue in the next few months. Submitted Into the public record in connection with item 23 -1 on Lily oy Priscilla A. Thompson City Clerk 7 Department of Veterans Affairs Central Office (131) 810 Vermont Avenue, N.W. Washington, DC 20420 OFFICIAL BUSINESS Penalty for private use $300 OPERATIONS IRAOI FREEDOM/ ENDURING FREEDOM REVIEW Information for Veterans Who Served in Iraq and Afghanistan and Their Families September 2005 PRESORTED FIRST-CLASS MAIL U.S. POSTAGE PAID OMAHANE PERMIT # 655 Submitted ! f:;' p thc record in con.;„ c ;.;nft Item 13. 1 1 � ' "N„Priscilla A. Thompson City Clerk 0 GXY U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE 2005-512-144/06679 Department of Veterans Affairs Miami VA Medical Center 1201 NW 16`h Street Miami, FL 33125 Phone (305) 575-7000 Toll Free (888) 276-1785 www.visn8.med.va.gov/miami Oakland Park VA OPC 5599 N. Dixie Hwy Oakland Park. FL 33334 Phone: (954) 771-2101 Toll Free (888) 497-4647 www.va.gov This brochure compiled by Social Work Service at Oakland Park VA OPC • Resources For returning Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom Veterans Submitted .Into the public record in connection with item P3.1 on a fd c Priscilla A. Thompsor City CIerE Department of Veterans Affairs Miami VA Medical Center Oakland Park VA Outpatient Clinic VA Community Based Outpatient Clinics FOIi tlll\'l VVI IO SHALL HAVE h()RNI:. f l HE I A"I 11.F:, AND FOR 111E WILA.)W AND ORPHAN... AliRAf I 'VI L1N( 01. N Submitted Into the public record in connection wjth item . 1 on u1isi�o. Priscilla A. Thompson City Clerk A Message from Mr. Stephen M. Lucas, Medical Center Director, to veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom: We at the Miami VA thank you for your service to our country. We are grateful to all the men and women who risked their lives to fight terrorism in Afghanistan, Iraq, and many other places around the world. America is more secure because of your participation in these hazardous operations. If you need help with personal or family concerns, I hope this Resource Book will assist you in your transition back into Civilian life. Table of Contents Medical Care 2 Mental Health Services 3 Children's Services 4-5 Emergency Services 5-7 Housing Assistance 7-8 Employment & Training Resources 8-10 Legal Help 10-11 Claims and Benefits 11-12 Helpful Numbers 13 Internet Resources 14-15 Transitional Issues 16 Medical Care Submitted Into the puuuc record in connect.19Qfl ih item D� n Priscilla A. Thompson City Clerk The Miami VA Medical Center is comprised of the main hospital located in Miami -Dade County, a full service Outpatient Clinic located in Broward County, and eight additional Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) located throughout Miami -Dade, Monroe, and Broward Counties. Miami VA Medical Center 1201 NW 16th Street Miami, FL 33125 1-888-276-1785 or 305-575-7000 Oakland Park VA Outpatient Clinic 5599 North Dixie Highway Oakland Park, FL 33334 1-888-497-4647 or 954-771-2101 Community Based Outpatient Coral Springs, FL Deerfield Beach, FL Hollywood, FL Homestead, FL Key Largo, FL Key West, FL Pembroke Pines, FL Clinics (CBOCs): 954-575-4940 954-570-5572 954-986-1811 305-248-0874 305-451-0164 305-293-4609 9 54-8 94-1668 T R I -CAR E 1-888-363-2273 Mental Health Services Miarili-(/A. Medical Center 1201 NW 16`h Street Miami, FL 33125 POC: Gary Kutcher Submitted Into the public record in connectio wi h item _ 1 _. on 4 Die Priscilla A. Thompson City Clerk Oakland Park VA Outpatient Clinic 5599 North Dixie Highway Oakland Park, FL 33334 POCs: Sherrill Valdes, LCSW Nancy Addison, LCSW Janice Postlewaite, LCSW Miami Vet Center 2700 SW 3rd Avenue, Suite 1A Miami, FL 33129 POC: Armando Alvarez Fort Lauderdale Vet Center 713 NE 3rd Avenue Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 POC: Bobby White 1-888-276-1785 ext. 3632 or 305-575-7000 ext. 3632 954-229-7650 954-229-7741 954-229-7701 305-859-8387 954-356-7926 Nova Southeastern University (NSU) Psychology Center *Counseling for spouses and family members POC: Ayala Weiner 954-262-5874 Children's Services Florida KidCare www.browardkidcare.com 780 SW 24th Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315 Main 954-467-8737 POC: Renee Cundiff 954-467-4885 Outreach for kidcare, which provides affordable, low-cost health insurance for children and adolescents whose parents meet the income eligibility threshold and do not have access to private insurance through their workplace. KidCare offers a comprehensive insurance package. To request an application: 1-888-540-5437 To check the status of your application: 1-800-821-5437 Women Infants Children (WIC) Provide$ the following at no cost: Healthy foods, nutrition, education and Counseling, breast feeding support, and referrals for health care. Must meet income guidelines. Fbr further information call: Child Nutrition Programs Free school breakfast, lunch, income guidelines. For further information call: 954-321-3780 and summer food service. Must meet 4 954-467-4700 Submitted Into the public record in connection with item D 3.1 on 4 Priscilla A. Thompson City Clerk Family Central for Child Care www.familycentral.orq 840 SW 81 st Ave Fort Lauderdale, FL For further information call: 954-724-3973 Helps clients locate child care, educates parents on components of quality child care, prescreens for eligibility for financial assistance and provides linkage to resources for families with unmet social service needs. Broward County Public School System Contact Peer Counseling at your child's school. Provides support for children whose parent is in the status of predeployment, deployment, or postdeployment. www.browardschools.com Broward County School System/Main Number: 954-321-0000 Psychological Services/Family Counseling: 954-321-2460 Nova Southeastern University (NSU) Mental Health Supportive Services provided through the Psychology Center. POC: Ayala Weiner 954-262-5874 Submitted Into the public record in connection with item r3. i on N) . oc Priscilla A. Thompson City Clerk Emergency Services (Info/resources for crisis, food, groceries, gas, etc...) VFW Unmet Needs Program One time financial assistance for recently discharged veterans returning from Iraq or Afghanistan Go to www.unmetneeds.com '`Fdr;an_appIication celk _ . .. .• .. t 1 • . r, ;.: t 5 1-866-789-6333 First Call For Help Emergency Assistance Broward County 24-hour Crisis and Help Line 3217 NW 10th Terrace, Suite 308 Fort Lauderdale, FL CaII: www.irissoft.com/fcfb/ 954-537-0211 or 211 Switchboard of Miami, Inc. Miami -Dade and Monroe Counties 24-hour Crisis and Help Line Call: 305-358-HELP (4357) www.switchboardmiami.orq All American VFW Post 8182 Contact: Johnny Owens, Post Commander 954-943-3552 American Legion Support for families Jewish Family Services 100 S. Pine Island Road, Suite 230 Plantation, FL Call: ,2790 SW.27th Avenue Miarni, FL 331,45 1-800-504-4098 954-370-2140 305-445-0555 Department of Children and Families Economic Service To apply for Food Stamps, Cash Assistance, or Medicaid 1801 W. Sample Rd, Pompano Beach, FL 1400 W. Commercial Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 311 North SR 7, Plantation, FL 7261 Sheridan St, Hollywood, FL 1490 NW 27th Ave, Miami, FL (Central Office) 1111 12th Street, Key West, FL (FL Keys) 88539 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier, FL (FL Keys) 2796 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL (FL Keys) 6 954-969-3400 954-967-1420 954-327-5000 954-967-1333 305-637-2485 305-293-1684 305-853-3246 305-289-2396 Submitted Into the public record in connection wi h item__on Priscilla A. Thompson City Clerk olp HOPE Forgive Our Debt Program Program acts as negotiators for people who are in need of repairing and restoring their credit. 2305 Sheridan Street Hollywood, FL Call: 954-342-8470 Florida Impact Food Stamp Hotline www.flimoact.orq 345 Magnolia Drive #E-11 Tallahassee, FL 32301 Food Stamp Hotline: 1-800-224-3470 Pre-screens applicants to determine if they are eligible for food stamps and an approximation of their monthly food stamp benefit. Applicants must provide information on personal income, assets, and expenses. Food Pantry Wilton Manors Good News Church 201 SW 38th Avenue Wilton Manors, FL Call: 954-581-1612 Submitted Into the public record in connection with item P 3.1 on H i z-)104 Priscilla A. Thompsor City Clerli Housing Assistance Fort Lauderdale CED Purchase Assistance 1409 NW 6th Street Fort Lauderdale, FL Main: 954-828-4530 This is a City of Fort Lauderdale program to provide closing costs or down payment assistance to eligible home buyers. Up to $3000 in the form of a grant may be provided to eligible lower income home buyers to ;,;,«purchase exi§.icing single family homes. 7 r• Hollywood First Time Home Buyer 2500 Hollywood Blvd, Suite 314 Hollywood, FL 33020 Main: 954-921-3271 Provides down payment and closing cost assistance up to $10,000 for the purchase of an existing property and $20,000 for new construction. Must contribute $1000 toward the down payment and attend home buyer's workshop. Employment and Training Resources Work Force One for Employment Purposes 2610 W. Oakland Park Blvd Fort Lauderdale, FL Veterans Representative: 954-677-5555 ext. 1516 Broward County Jobs www.broward.ora/careers/ 115 South Andrews Ave, Annex B Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 Apply for jobs with Veterans Preference; search for jobs and apply online Main: 954-357-6445 24-hour job hotline: 954-357-5627 Miami Vet Center 2700 SW 3rd Ave, Suite 1A Miami, FL 33129 POC: Armando Alvarez Job fairs, seminars, and career counseling 305-859-8387 Federal Jobs (Vetgrar s,Preference) www.usaJJobs,cornn;;•Apply online and post yourNelifitted Into the public record in connecti n wi h 8 item P3.1 on s-`7 _ Priscilla A. Thompson City Clerk Atlantic Vocational Technical Center 4700 Coconut Creek Parkway Coconut Creek, FL 33063 Main: 754-321-5100 Provides vocational counseling/training, skill assessment, job placement, academic remediation and supportive services for vets. State of Florida Unemployment Office Work Force One: FDMS-AWI (Agency for Workforce Initiative) www.floridajobs.orq • 2301 W. Sample Road, Building 4, Suite 7A Pompano Beach, FL Main: • 7550 Davie Road Extension Hollywood, FL Main: • 2660 W. Oakland Park Blvd Fort Lauderdale, FL Main: • 3050 Biscayne Blvd, 4th Floor Miami, FL Main: • 3112 Flagler Ave, Habana Plaza Key West, FL Main: • 103400 Overseas Hwy, Suite239 Key Largo, FI Main: 954-969-3541 954-967-1010 954-677-5400 305-573-7301 305-292-6762 305-853-3540 United States Department of Labor POC: Oscar Fuentes, Assistant Director 954-677-5818 If you lose your job or you returned and your job is no longer available. 9 Submitted Into the public record in connection wit item D3.\ ono1.9-1 10G Priscilla A. Thompso City Cler National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR)/ESGR Ombudsman 1555 Wilson Blvd, Ste 200 Arlington, VA 22209 Main Number 1-800-336-4592 www.esar.org Third party assistance, informal mediation services to employers and members of the National Guard and Reserve. Provides assistance in the resolution of employment conflicts resulting from military membership, training or other services requirements protected under USERRA (Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act). Submitted Into the public record in conn ncti n with item ° Thompson Priscilla A. City C1erk Legal Help Broward County Bar Association Lawyer Referral — Low Cost Panel 1051 SE Third Ave Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316 Main: 954-764-8040 Provides legal referrals (only handles family law and landlord/tenant law) to people currently without an attorney; attorneys are all members of the Broward County Bar Association and appointments are usually available within two days of the referral. Legal Aid Service (Broward County) 491 North State Rd 7 Plantation, FL 33317 Main: 10 954-765-8950 Miami Legal Aid Services 124 NW 1st Ave Miami, FL 33128 Main: Legal Services of the Florida Keys 600 White Street Key West, FL 33040 Main: 305-579-5733 305-292-3566 Miami Asylum Office of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services 77 SE 5'h Street, 3rd Floor Miami, FL 33131 Office is open to the public from 7:30 a.m. — 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (Federal Holidays excepted) National Telephone number: 1-800-375-5283 Naturalization Information for Military Personnel:' Spepial information is available for military personnel pursuing the na#uralization process. You, may call 1-800-870-3676 and request a "mili#,rypacket" or -you may go_. to the following website and download the forms: http://uscis.00vkiraohics/services/natz/militarvbrochurev7.htm Submitted Into the public record in connectin with item p 3_.._-on Priscilla A. Thompson City Clerk 0 Claims and Benefits Help filing for pension, compensation, education, insurance claims, and other benefits: Broward County Elderly and Veterans Services Division 11 North Office: 1600 W. Hillsboro Blvd, Room 200 Deerfield Beach, FL 954-831-1230 Central Office: 2995 North Dixie Highway Fort Lauderdale, FL 954-537-2936 South Office: 3550 Hollywood Blvd, Room 190 Hollywood, FL 954-831-0420 Florida Department of Veterans Affairs General/Main Address: P.O. Box 31003 St. Petersburg, FI 33731 727-319-7400 www.floridavets.orq VAMC Miami 1201 NW 16th St, Room A206 Miami, FL 33125 POC: Enrique Carrion VA OPC Oakland Park 5599 N. Dixie Hwy, Rm. 100B Oakland Park, FL 33334 POC: vacant (as of 04/05) 305-325-3325, ext. 3068 954-229-7727 Submitted Into the public record in connection ith item 1)3.1on Priscilla A. Thompson City Clerk 12 Helpful Numbers I. GI Bill Office Education Benefits P.O. Box 100022 Decatur, GA 30031-7022 1-888-GIBILL1 (1-888-442-4551) Information for Chapter 30 self -verifications: ► VA Regional Office (VARO) Florida (For all VA benefits and Information): P.O. Box 1437 St. Petersburg, FL 33731 Main: Submitted Into the public record in connection with item 1 . on 41-art 0 Priscilla A. Thompson City Clerk 1-877-823-2378 1-800-827-1000 I. Veterans Health Administration (medical care) 1-877-222-8387 ► VA EFT Hotline (to change status of electronic funds transfer or direct deposit for disability or compensation): 1-877-838-2778 ► VA Insurance Center P.O. Box 42954 Philadelphia, PA Main: ► CHAMPVA Inquiries: I. Loan Guaranty Eligibility Center (Home loan certificates of eligibility) P.O. Box 20729 Winston-Salem, NC 27120 Main: 13 1-800-669-8477 1-800-733-8387 1-800-244-6711 Submitted Into the public record in connection ith o� item 3.1 o Priscilla A. son �ity Clerk Internet Resources: DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS WEBSITE www.va.4ov VARIETY OF HEALTH TOPICS AND EDUCATION vwvw.mvhealth.va.gov IRAQI FREEDOM VETERANS www.va.aov/GulfWar SUPPORT SITE For wives, significant others, and adult children of vets suffering from ptsd. A safe haven of support for those whose battles live on in the aftermath of war www.msn.com/Aftermathofwarcopin ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY AND VETERANS WEBSITE Comprehensive website on military and veterans benefits www.militarv.com A with PTSDtool INFORMATION ON PTSD www.ncptsd.org INFORMATION ON VETERANS SERVICE OFFICERS www.va.siovlvsol INFORMATIONAL SITE/PRIVATE SUPPORT MESSAGE FORUM For women veterans of war suffering from PTSD and other military related traumatic issues www.sistersboundbvhonor.orq INFORMATION/SUPPORT FOR OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM ACTIVE MILITARY PERSONNEL AND FAMILY MEMBERS Related to pre -deployment, deployment, and post deployment issues www.iraawarveterans.orq INFORMATIONAL SITE FOR VETS AND FAMILY MEMBERS Includes issues updated weekly from Washington. help with claims, family issues, stories, etc. www.brothersboundbvhonor.com INFORMATION ON PTSD AND MILITARY ISSUES Excellent site by patience mason, author of "Recovering from the War" www.patiencepress.com 14 • .• 1. INFORMATIONAL SITE FOR ACTIVE DUTY SERVICEMEMBERS Website for active duty service members and their families, help provided for a variety of different areas. Use the following to logon: userid= military; password= onesource www.militaryonesource.com INFO'WATIONAL SITES FOR MILITARY BRANCHES Army One Source (1-800-464-8107) www.armvonesource.com (userid=army; password=onesource) Air Force One Source (1-800-707-5784) www.airforceonesource.com (userid=airforce; password=ready) Marine Corps One Source (1-800-869-0278) www.mccsonesource.com (userid=marines; password=semperfi) Navy One Source (1-800-540-4123) www. navvonesou rce.com (userid=navy; password=sailor) ASSISTANCE WITH EMPLOYMENT Help with resumes, job searches, and jobseeker support www.hireveterans.com ASSISTANCE WITH EMPLOYMENT Comprehensive career website for hiring veterans of America's military www.hirevetsfirst.00v 15 Submitted Into the public record in connection with item '3' 1 on 4,2,11 v 4 Priscilla A. Thompson City Clerk Submitted Into the public record in connect' • n ith item D'a \ on tr4 Priscilla A. Thompson CityCleric Transitional Issues: Self -care to manage stress after a combat experience • Consider limiting your exposure to television coverage. Monitor yourself for signs of anger, rage, depression, or anxiety and take a break from the coverage to allow yourself to recover from these feelings. • Keep up with your daily schedules and routines. • Keep up with your physical needs relating to exercise, food, and sleep. • Feel what you feel. It is normal to feel a range of emotions. Having these feelings is to be expected; how you deal with them is most important. • Remember that people have their own pace for dealing with traumatic incidents, and it is important to listen to and honor your own pace. • Count on feeling angry, but temper your actions with wisdom. Try to stay calm and avoid reacting with impulsive anger. Consider the long term consequences of these actions for the overall benefit of the country. • Talk with someone close to you who might understand what you are going through. • Studies suggest that if you do not feel like talking, writing in a journal may be helpful for dealing with intense feelings. • Studies show that seeking support along with other veterans can be very helpful when stress is increasing. This can be done through the VA, Vet Centers, and Vets Service Organizations. • Seek assistance from your medical doctor or a mental health professional who is skilled in working with survivors of trauma if: •You are experiencing any symptoms causing significant distress, changes in relationships, or impairing functioning at work •You are self medicating with alcohol or drugs; •You are unable to find relief using the strategies listed above 16