The horizon looks bright in 2008 for VA MidSouth Healthcare  Network. Several new initiatives are underway as well as improvements to existing services. Many of these endeavors are the result of feedback and input from our patients.

If you’re an inpatient at any of our medical centers this year, a staff member may ask you about your experience. If you’re treated in an outpatient capacity, you may receive a survey in the mail following your visit. I encourage you to take a few minutes to respond. We’re always looking for ways to improve your care.

Another undertaking for 2008 is a discussion group for those who recently served active combat duty in Iraq or Afghanistan. You may be contacted by your local VA medical center to participate in a small, hour-long discussion group to tell us about your transition to VA and the care you received.

Finally, I’d like to draw your attention to a report released in December entitled “The Health Care System for Veterans: An Interim Report,” published by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO). This 18-page document outlines the progress the Department of Veterans Affairs has made in recent years and insightful information about the quality of our health care, how technology has bolstered our services, special eligibility for combat veterans, priority groups and more.

It’s easy for me to say we provide excellent care, but with an independent agency like the CBO reporting that the average ratings for VA patients were higher than for patients in private-sector health care organizations, it means we’re on the right track and that others are taking note. You can access the report at www.cbo.gov. Starting out the New Year with high marks raises the bar in our efforts to keep you in the best health possible.

John Dandridge, Jr.
Network Director