Priority Group 8 Enrollment Relaxation Changes
VA eligibility rules changed on June 15, 2009, making it easier for more Veterans to enroll in VA’s health care system. Under this new regulation, VA relaxed income restrictions on enrollment for health benefits. While this new provision does not remove consideration of income, it does increase income thresholds. A web–based calculator is available for Veterans to enter their income information, dependents, and zip code to assess if their income would fall within the proposed income threshold adjustments. Veterans are encouraged to contact VA’s Health Resource Center at 1–877–222 VETS (8387) or visit the VA health eligibility website for more information.
VA Study to Bring Advanced Prosthetic Arm to Veterans
An advanced artificial arm that enables amputees to easily pick up a key or hold a pencil will undergo a three–year study at the Providence, R.I., VA Medical Center. The VA–DARPA collaboration will guide engineers in refining the prototype before it is made available through the VA health care system. The arm’s control system, which works like a foot–operated joystick, contains an array of sensors embedded in a shoe and allows an amputee to maneuver the arm by pressing with different parts of the foot. The current version uses wires to relay the signals to the arm, but future versions will be wireless. This first large–scale testing of the arm will allow those who have lost a limb up to their shoulder joint to perform movements while reaching over their head.
The Post–9⁄11 GI Bill
We are now accepting applications for the Post–9⁄11 GI Bill benefit that is effective August 1, 2009. Individuals with active duty service since September 11, 2001, may be eligible for this benefit and can apply on–line at www.GIBILL.VA.gov. The program provides tuition assistance, a housing allowance, a books and supplies stipend, and the option to transfer these benefits to family members under certain circumstances. For more information, visit the GI Bill website or call 1–888–GIBILL–1 (1–888–442–4551).
Veterans seeking information about their rights under the proposed settlement of the court case involving the May 3, 2006, theft of computer equipment from the home of a former VA employee can visit www.VeteransClass.com for more information.
