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Community Outreach to Women Veterans Currently, women make up 14 percent of the active force, are serving in all branches of the military, and are eligible for assignment in most military occupational specialties except for direct combat roles. The increase in the number of women serving in the military significantly impact the services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Projections show that by the year 2010, women will comprise well over 10 percent of the veteran population, an increase of 6 percent over current figures. The Department of Veterans Affairs places great importance on providing women veterans access to information about and assistance with filing claims for VA benefits and health care services. To underscore VA's commitment, the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans was established in November 1983 by Public Law 98-160. This Committee continues to review VA programs, policy and the health care services for women veterans and publishes their findings. A copy of their 1998 report can be found at: In November 1994, Public Law 103-446 established the Center for Women Veterans in the Department of Veterans Affairs under the Office of the Secretary. The primary mission of the Center for Women Veterans is to review VA programs and services for women veterans, and assure that women veterans receive benefits and services on a par with male veterans, encounter no discrimination in their attempt to access them, and are treated with the respect, dignity, and understanding by VA service providers. VA has developed initiatives for women veterans that assure women veterans receive the benefits to which they are entitled. One of the most important of these has been the establishment of the Women Veterans' Coordinator positions. Most VA regional offices, medical centers and vet centers have a designated Coordinator to assist women veterans in accessing VA benefits and health care services. VA emphasizes equal access to care and adequate privacy within the Women Veterans Health Programs. Women VA patients receive complete physical examinations upon admission, including breast and pelvic exams. Clinicians emphasize preventive health care and counseling, including contraceptive services and menopause management, Pap smears and mammography. VA Clinicians and Women Veterans Coordinators are provided specialized training and sensitivity awareness to help sexual assault victims. Additionally, VA has been authorized to provide specialized counseling and treatment for the aftereffects of sexual trauma that occurred during military service. Our 1-800-827-1000 National toll free line is designated and advertised as the contact telephone number for veterans to receive information, assistance and referrals on issues related to sexual trauma in the military VA conducts research on a broad range of issues related to women's health care, including breast cancer, osteoporosis, mental health, post-traumatic stress disorder and access barriers to health care. The results of these projects have contributed to improve health care for all veterans within the VA network. VA Medical Center and Regional Office Coordinators have established viable networks that include other VA Coordinators, service providers and community resources to improve access to VA and community services for women veterans. Coordinators are available as speakers at briefings and seminars and can assist communities in their efforts to provide comprehensive services to the women veterans. The availability of VA benefits and health care services for women veterans are emphasized at state health fairs, Veterans' Day ceremonies, and local community events. VA regional office and medical center Coordinators continue to work with service organizations, military groups and community advocacy programs that include women veterans in their membership. In 1996, the VA Center for Women Veterans co-sponsored the first National Summit on Women Veterans Issues. The Summit provided an opportunity for women veteran service providers, federal and state agency representatives, legislative staff, and women veteran activists to come together and discuss the issues and concerns of the women veteran community, and to develop recommendations to address and improve legislative, programmatic, and outreach activities. The Summit Proceedings included discussions and recommendations and was distributed to Congress, federal agency leaders, and other interested parties. A second Summit Summit 2000 - National Summit on Women Veterans Issues, was held in June 2000. The Center for Women Veterans has established an interactive INTERNET site within its HOMEPAGE on the World Wide Web for women veterans . This site provides gender specific information and offers women veterans' direct access to the Center for Women Veterans where they can express concerns, complaints and appreciation related to VA benefits and services. VA regional offices and health care facilities have continued to enhance women veterans' programs and initiatives related to outreach and personal assistance. It is important to know that the availability of specific programs may vary from facility to facility just as in your own community, not every hospital or service provider offers exactly the same programs and services. VA recognizes the importance of the contributions made by women veterans in the service to their country and the price many have paid to preserve our freedoms. Our goal is to ensure that all veterans receive the benefits and health care services to which they are entitled to by Law and are afforded these rights in a courteous and effective way. We take pride in being a provider of choice to millions of veterans. As a veteran, you may be entitled to one or more of the following benefits. Contact your local VA regional office, medical center or vet center for more information. Want more information? Addresses and phone numbers for VA benefits offices and health care facilities in your local community can be found at: The VA Facility and Leadership Directory Do you have a specific concern or comment about VA programs and services for women veterans? Contact VA Women Veteran Program Officials. Remember, most VA facilities have a Women Veterans Coordinator to assist you in applying for VA benefit programs and health care services. Contact your local Coordinator today. Benefits & Services for Women Veterans
Call Toll Free at 1-800-827-1000
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Reviewed/Updated: February 27, 2002