RAO Bulletin

[boardman]

VDBC UPDATE 15: At their March meeting the Veterans Disability Benefits Commission (VDBC) Chairman Terry Scott, (LTG USA, Ret.) tabled any recommendation regarding SBP/DIC, concurrent retirement pay and disability compensation until a future meeting. As reported in the past, five options are under consideration, including:

1. Endorsing an offset of military retirement by VA disability compensation for everyone. (Pre-CRDP policy);
2. Endorsing the current tiered CRDP/CRSC approach;
3. Endorsing full concurrent receipt of both longevity retired pay and VA compensation for those with 20 plus years of service;
4. Endorsing the current election of CRDP and CRSC and expand tiered approach to 20 plus YOS for retirees rated 10-40%; and
5. Endorsing the previous option and extending CRSC and CRDP criteria to Chapter 61 retirees with less than 20 years of service.

The Commission did decide not to consider option one, and Chairman Scott requested staff to compile potential cost estimates on the four remaining issue options and provide commission members with potential compensation tables for disabled retirees. The VDBC final report will include a number of research topics in the form of issue papers ranging from disability compensation, pension, survivor and dependent benefits. The VDBC meets monthly in the Washington DC area and the final report is due to Congress by 1OCT 07. For more information on VDBC refer to www.vetscommission.org. (Source: FRA News Bytes 23 Mar 07 ++]


MILITARY PAY TAX BILL: The Armed Forces Tax Relief Act A bill HR 1559 exempting all military pay and benefits from federal income taxes was introduced 18 MAR in the House of Representatives by Rep. John Culberson (R-TX). Culberson is not the first person to propose federal tax exclusions for all service members. Similar legislation has rarely received any serious attention in Congress, because the drop in federal tax revenues would have to be made up by increasing taxes on other Americans, or by cutting spending on federal entitlement programs, such as Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security and military and federal civilian retired pay — all unpopular choices for politicians, according to House aides working on military personnel issues. The aides asked not to be identified because they are not authorized to speak to reporters. The measure was referred to the House Ways and Means Committee, where it is one of several military-related tax measures introduced since the new session of Congress started in January. It is, by far, the most ambitious because it would expand tax exclusions to everyone on active duty. Currently, such exclusions are limited to active-duty members only while serving in combat zones.

Under Culberson’s bill, National Guard and reserve members would still be taxed on their military pay while in a drilling status. Under his bill, all military compensation — including basic pay, special pays and bonuses — would not be counted as income for tax purposes for active-duty members. Military retired pay would still be taxable. The bill would apply to income received in calendar year 2007. Several bills have been introduced since January that are aimed at helping mobilized Guard and reserve members and their employers by providing tax breaks for making up lost salary while mobilized, hiring temporary replacement workers and for lost production. Just last week, two bills were introduced to provide tax exemptions of up to $2,000 for military members and their families. Both of those bills are sponsored by Rep. Christopher Carney (D-PA) a Navy Reserve officer:
- One would allow a combat-zone tax break for the spouses of deployed service members. When a military member spends a cumulative 90 days in a combat zone, or is hospitalized for combat injuries, their spouses could receive a federal tax deduction of 2% of their adjusted gross income, up to a maximum of $2,000.
- The second would give all active-duty service members, and reservists on inactive duty training, the same exclusion, also capped at $2,000 a year.

Carney’s bills, like Culberson’s, are awaiting decisions by the House Ways and Means Committee, which is responsible for passing all tax-related legislation, about whether to package proposed legislation into a single military-related tax bill, or to consider the proposals as it passes a more general collection of tax changes. A decision on how to proceed is unlikely before the House of Representatives approves an overall spending and revenue plan, which could happen within two weeks. [Source: NavyTimes Rick Maze article 21Mar 07 ++]


MEDAL OF HONOR DAY: The United States Congress has designated March 25th of each year through Public Law 101-564 as National Medal Of Honor Day, a day dedicated to Medal of Honor recipients. Conceived in the State of Washington, this holiday should be one of our most revered. Members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives met on 21 MAR with 31 recipients of the Medal of Honor as part of an effort to acknowledge the nation’s greatest heroes and highlight this year’s first ever national "Medal of Honor Day" The date was chosen because it was on March 25 in 1863 that the first Medals of Honor were presented to six Union soldiers. The medal was originally authorized in 1861 for sailors and Marines, and the following year for Army soldiers as well. Since then, more than 3,400 Medals of Honor have been awarded to members of all services and the Coast Guard, as well as to a few civilians who distinguished themselves with valor. Almost half of thes were Civil War soldiers. Since the beginning of World War II, only 846 Medals of Honor have been awarded. Over half that number died in their moment of heroism. Only 328 soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen from Pearl Harbor to Somalia have survived to actually wear the Medal. Today only 111 of them are still with us.

National Medal of Honor day is celebrated in some communities, however for the most part the occasion comes and goes with little notice. Patriotic Americans are encouraged to commemorate this day by:
- Fly your flag on this day.
- As a gesture of your appreciation, take a few moments in the week prior to National Medal of Honor Day to mail a "Thank You" card to one of our living Medal of Honor recipients. You can find a list of the living as well as information on writing to them at www.homeofheroes.com/hallofheroes/1st_f ... iving.html
- Most newspapers are not aware that this special day exists. Why not tip your local media to the occasion. Before you do, check out www.homeofheroes.com/hometownheroes/index.html for Medal of Honor recipients from your city and state as well as any who might be buried in your city. This information can give your media a "local angle" that can increase the probability that they will consider doing a story to remind Americans of our heroes.
- Consider doing something in your local schools, or even on a civic level, if there is a Medal of Honor recipient living near your location.
- If there is a Medal of Honor recipient buried in your home town, get a school class, scout troop, or other youth organization to "adopt a grave site".

The Congressional Medal of Honor Society is the organization chartered by the U. S. Congress to represent the affairs and concerns of those few Americans who wear the Medal of Honor. Refer to www.cmohs.org for additional info on their organization and awardees. All matters related to the Medal of Honor should be directed to the CMOH Society at: Congressional Medal of Honor Society, 40 Patriots Point Road, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 Tel: (843) 884-8862/1471F [Source: Senate Committee On Veterans' Affairs msg. 22 Mar 07 ++]


TRICARE/CHAMPUS FRAUD UPDATE 05: An indictment has been filed by the Department of Justice against Health Visions Corporation and all Health Visions owned facilities. On 16 MAR HQ TRICARE Management Activity (TMA) notified Philippine Tricare beneficiaries of their decision to suspend claim payments associated with a large number of Philippine providers who either used HVC as a billing agent or those who contracted with HVC to provide health care services affiliated/associated with HVC. This affected all claims received on or after 8 NOV 06 for medical services from these providers regardless of when the services were provided. This payment suspension was put in place for an indefinite period of time as determined by HQ TMA. The suspension of claims payments also applied to beneficiary-submitted claims seeking reimbursement for services which were obtained from those same providers. After review HQ TMA decided to remove a large number of these providers from their suspended list and have advised that any claims associated with their services will be processed under normal claim processing procedures until further notice. The suspension of payments remains in effect for the following Philippine Institutional providers:

Divine Shepard
Philippine International Hospital
Riverfront International Hospital
St John The Baptist Hospital
Subic Bay Medical Center
Total Life Care

For the foreseeable future, and until otherwise notified, Tricare Area Office Pacific (TAO-P) recommends that Philippine beneficiaries not seek TRICARE services from the providers whose claims are under suspension. If a beneficiary does seek services from these providers, any submitted claim will be pended, and not reimbursed, until the situation is resolved with the particular provider. TAO-P recommends that beneficiaries seek TRICARE services from any of the other certified Philippine providers who are not on the claims-suspended list. More detailed information can be found on the TAO-P website: http://tpaoweb.oki.med.navy.mil by clicking on the “TRICARE in the Philippines” button. There you will find a NOTICE to all beneficiaries, a listing of the providers under this suspended claims action, a list of authorized providers, and some other important links. TAO-P regrets the inconvenience these actions may cause beneficiaries and providers, but they are necessary to ensure the overall integrity of the TRICARE program as it is implemented and managed in the Philippines.

If there are any specific questions in regard to the “Suspension of Claims Payment” list, contact the WPS Overseas Claims Processor via (608) 301-2310/2311, or secure email: Questions via WPS’ website at www.tricare4u.com, or by writing to: WPS/TRICARE Overseas, P.O. Box 7635, Madison, WI 53707. As usual, for general TRICARE customer service questions, contact my TRICARE Pacific Regional Customer Service Center (RCSC) at Regional Customer Service Center (RCSC), TAO-P, Camp Lester, Okinawa via phone 0730-1630 M-F Japan Standard Time COMM: (81) 6117-43-2036, DSN: 643-2036, TOLL FREE: 1-888-777-8343, Option 4 or EMAIL: <TPAO.CSC@med.navy.mil>. [Source: Chief, Program Operations (TAO-P) Lt Col Tony Ingram msg. 16 & 22 Mar 07 ++]


FILIPINO VET INEQUITIES: A number of issues affecting Filipino veterans who served in WWII are being addressed in the 110th Congress. During WWII the Philippines was a Commonwealth of the U.S. making their soldiers part of the U.S. allied forces. Many are former members of the Philippine Scouts, a U.S. Army unit. Others formed the resistance against Japanese troops after U.S. forces surrendered at Bataan. Upon termination of hostilities Washington broke wartime promises dating back to 1946 that the soldiers could become U.S. citizens and enjoy the same pension and medical benefits as American troops. The federal government has since belatedly fulfilled some of those commitments, but only in the past two decades and only in fits and starts. Some issues continue to remain unresolved It took Washington 45 years after the war to offer veterans a proper chance to obtain citizenship. There are as many as over 50,000 Filipino veterans of World War II alive today. Some 10,000 are said to live in the United States. Most are in their 70s and 80s.

. Many of these elderly veterans, including those wounded in battle and awarded the Bronze Star and other medals, are living their last years far from their children and grandchildren because of U.S. immigration rules. Veterans and their backers say the need to reunite divided families only grows more urgent given the advancing age of the veterans. The Immigration Act of 1990 allowed each veteran to bring only one immediate family member to the United States . The shortcomings of that law have left the sons and daughters of the veterans with little choice but to get in line for immigration visas along with everyone else if they want to live in the U.S. On average, they must wait about 20 years because so many Filipinos hope to emigrate and the limits are set by nationality. Sen. Daniel K. Akaka (D-HI) introduced legislation in the last to years to remedy the situation. It would allow children of Filipino World War II veterans to sidestep the immigration waiting list. The measure died last year when it was included in a large omnibus immigration bill that was derailed by disagreements over a border fence and making English the national language. According to an Akaka spokesman Akaka is optimistic the Senate will pass the reunification legislation this year. The Veterans Affairs Committee, which Akaka chairs, plans to hold hearings on the issue next month coinciding with the 65th anniversary of the Bataan Death March on 9 APR.

Other lawmakers plan a bill that would give full pension and disability benefits to those Filipino veterans who have been denied the same benefits as former American soldiers. If enacted it would give many the opportunity to return to the Philippines to live near their families. However, it is necessary for those in poor health to continue to reside in the U.S. to access the medical care, medicines, and therapy available at veterans’ facilities. There are no VA hospitals in the Philippines and only one Outpatient Clinic located in Manila which most could not access. At present the following legislation has been introduced in Congress to address Filipino inequities:

- S.0057: Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Sponsor: Sen. Inouye, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 1/4/07).
- S.0066: A bill to require the Secretary of the Army to determine the validity of the claims of certain Filipinos that they performed military service on behalf of the United States during World War II. Sponsor: Sen Inouye, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 1/4/07).
- S.0671: Filipino Veterans Family Reunification Act. A bill to exempt children of certain Filipino World War II veterans from the numerical limitations on immigrant visas. Sponsor: Sen. Akaka, Daniel K. [HI].
- H.R.0760: Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Sponsor: Rep Filner, Bob [CA-51] (introduced 1/31/07).
[Source: Associated Press Audrey McAvoy article 22 Mar 07 ++]


VA FACILITY MAINTENANCE: The Veterans Affairs’ vast network of 1,400 health clinics and hospitals is beset by maintenance problems such as mold, leaking roofs and even a colony of bats, an internal review says. The investigation, ordered two weeks ago by VA Secretary Jim Nicholson, is the first major review of the facilities conducted since the disclosure of squalid conditions at Walter Reed Army Medical Center . A copy of the report was provided to The Associated Press. Democrats newly in charge of Congress called the report the latest evidence of an outdated system unable to handle a coming influx of veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan . Investigators earlier this month found that the VA’s system for handling disability claims was strained to its limit. Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee said, “Who’s been minding the store?” They keep putting Band-Aids on problems, when what the agency needs is major triage.” The report found that 90% of the 1,100 problems cited were deemed to be of a more routine nature: worn-out carpet, peeling paint, mice sightings and dead bugs at VA centers. The other 10% were considered serious and included mold spreading in patient care areas. Eight cases were so troubling they required immediate attention and follow-up action, according to the 94-page review. Some of the more striking problems found and noted in the report were:

1) Deteriorating walls and hallways were common, requiring repair, patch and paint in 30 percent of patient areas in Little Rock AR.
2) Roof leaks throughout the VA clinic in White City OR requiring continuously repair, mold clean up, spraying and/removal of ceiling tiles.” Also, large colonies of bats residing outside the facility that sometimes flew into the attics and interior parts of the building. Of benefit is that the bats keep the insect pollution to a minimum.
3) Secondhand smoke from an outside smoking shelter sometimes infiltrated the building through the women’s restroom in Oklahoma City
4) Numerous unspecified “environmental conditions” affected the quality of the building in New York ‘s Hudson Valley , with the private landlord repeatedly refusing to fix problems. The VA is taking steps to relocate to another facility.
5) Roof leaks or mold at facilities such as Hudson Valley NY; North Chicago IL; Indianapolis IN ; Puget Sound WA; Portland OR ; and Fayetteville AR..

VA's Acting Under Secretary for Health Michael Kussman said he special review of all facilities concludes most deficiencies involve “normal wear and tear." He noted that most of the maintenance issues identified in the special report did not involve areas providing direct patient care. The overwhelming majority of issues identified are the kinds of items you would expect to find -- and see being addressed -- in an organization with nearly 150 million square feet of space where 1 million patients come each week. Kussman said the Department's $519 million maintenance budget for this year, coupled with $573 million proposed for next year, should take care of any maintenance shortcomings. If further funds are needed, VA pledged to work with congressional committees to identify how to best address those needs. "VA facilities are inspected more frequently than any other health care facilities in the nation," Kussman said. "We will continue to monitor closely the progress of corrective action identified by this special report."

Veterans groups said they were concerned about the findings but also appreciated the VA’s aggressive efforts to identify problems. “We now expect these problems to be corrected immediately and not shelved due to insufficient funding or because the proper care and treatment of our wounded veterans is no longer in the national spotlight,” said Joe Davis, spokesman of Veterans of Foreign Wars. In response, Nicholson this week ordered “immediate corrective action” to fix problems, with full accounting provided to the VA. [Source: Associated Press Hope Yencarticle 22 Mar 07 ++]


VETERANS BENEFIT PROTECTION ACT: The H.R. 5549 Attorneys for Veterans Act was passed in the 109th Congress after lengthy negotiations and compromise between the House and Senate Veteran Affairs committees and signed into law. Basically it gave veterans the right to hire an attorney to represent them in furthering their claims only after the VA had issued an initial decision on their claim and the claimant had appealed. The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) organization, which provides free representation for veterans in appeal cases, was opposed to that legislation fearing that among other things attorneys would unduly charge for their services on such claims. DAV recently sent out a letter to their Commanders and members on the subject. They were urged to sign the petitions and send them to Congress in an effort to repeal the "Attorneys for Veterans" legislation passed last year through the newly submitted Veterans’ Benefits Protection Act” H.R. 1318 in the 110th Congress.

On 19 MAR, Senator Larry Craig (R-ID), who favors "Attorneys for Veterans" and who was mentioned in the DAV's letter, responded via letter to the DAV regarding their claims in an effort to correct what appears to be a "misrepresentation" of his involvement and support of the legislation. Among other things he said that he believes veterans to be mature, responsible, and capable enough to decide for themselves whether or not to hire legal representation. That the legislation only gives veterans the option of do so and they should not be discouraged from availing of free assistance provided by many veteran service organizations. His letter can be viewed at www.vawatchdog.com/07/nf07/nfMAR07/nf032007-8.htm.

Additionally, commentary from an attorney who represents veterans in the VA claims process was received that said, "I believe Senator Craig wrote a very well reasoned response to the DAV. The only thing I would have added is since the new law only allows attorney representation after a denial by the VA Regional Office and the submission of a Notice of Disagreement, attorney representation would only occur after a Veterans' Service Organization (VSO) (if the veteran was so represented) has failed to obtain a favorable decision. I believe this is a very important point. If the veteran first obtained VSO representation [from the DAV, for example], and that representation failed to obtain a favorable result, why shouldn't the veteran then be allowed to seek other representation, if he or she so chooses?" [Source: VA Watchdog dot Org Larry Scott article 20 Mar 07 ++]


ECHO TAPS WORLDWIDE: Hundreds of volunteer brass players are being recruited to perform the 24 notes of “Taps” on 19 May 07, in recognition of Armed Forces Day at National Cemeteries, State Veterans Cemeteries and American Battle Monuments Cemeteries overseas. The event, called “Echo Taps Worldwide,” is being organized by the VA National Cemetery Administration and Bugles Across America to honor and remember American veterans through a worldwide performance of Taps. Organizers also hope the event will interest brass players in volunteering to perform Taps at the military funerals of veterans throughout the year. Each day, America loses about 1,800 of its veterans, primarily those who fought in World War II and Korea. In honor of them and the service they provided, it is important that our Nation preserves the tradition of a live bugler to play final military honors. During the event, players will form a line through the cemetery and perform a cascading version of Taps. Brass players of all ages are encouraged to perform at the cemetery of their choice. Schools and other organizations are also invited to participate in the tribute as performers or support volunteers. Volunteer buglers and trumpeters must register through the VA's website, which is attached to the "Echo Taps" website www.echotaps.org.

The first large “Echo Taps” event occurred In May 05, when 674 brass players from 30 states lined 42-miles of road between Woodlawn National Cemetery in Elmira, NY, and Bath National Cemetery in Bath, NY. Playing “Taps” in cascade, it took nearly three hours from the first note played at Woodlawn to the final note of Taps sounded at the National Cemetery at Bath. In 2006, players performed “Echo Taps” at 52 National Cemeteries and State Veterans Cemeteries across the Nation on Veterans Day in preparation for the upcoming effort. The Armed Forces Day event in 2007 will involve buglers around the world to include participants at American Battle Monument Cemeteries overseas. Thomas Day, a Marine veteran who founded Bugles Across America in 2000 said, “A live bugler performing Taps is an expression of the Nation’s appreciation for the service of each veteran. With more than 600,000 veterans dying each year, we are always looking for new volunteers to perform this valuable service. Echo Taps Worldwide will honor America’s 40 million veterans who have served over the course of our history and draw attention to the need for more buglers to perform “Taps” as part of final military honors. [Source: TREA Update 12 Jan 07 ++]


RECRUITER MISCONDUCT UPDATE 02: The military is considering installing surveillance cameras in recruiting stations across the country, the most dramatic of several new steps to address a rise in misconduct allegations against military recruiters—including sexual assaults of female prospects and bending the rules to meet quotas. In a letter to Congress a top Pentagon personnel official outlined the initiatives, which also include a ban on recruiters meeting with prospective recruits of the opposite sex unless a supervisor is present. Recruiters may also be required to give potential recruits “applicant’s rights cards,” spelling out what a recruiter can and cannot do to get them to enlist, and the military may set up a hot line to report violations, according to the letter. Together, they mark the Pentagon’s most forceful attempt to address what government investigators say is an increase in the number of recruiters using questionable tactics and in some cases breaking the law while trying to fill the Pentagon’s need for new soldiers and Marines. In the 7 MAR letter Michael L. Dominguez, principal deputy undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness, wrote that at least one branch of the service is “assessing the feasibility of video surveillance” to prevent abuses.

All services have examined their programs and have instituted several new facets,” Dominguez reported. The military has more than 20,000 recruiters, thousands of whom serve on the “front lines” of recruitment at schools, malls, sporting events, and other gathering places for young people. They are required to sign up at least two recruits a month, a struggle in healthy economic times and when public approval for the war in Iraq is at an all-time low. Since the military is seeking to increase its ranks by 92,000 troops over the next five years, the Army and Marine Corps will add more recruiters. But the pressure to put more men and women in uniform probably will not diminish. While cases of recruiter misconduct are considered rare, a Government Accountability Office investigation using Defense Department data last year found that substantiated cases of recruiter wrongdoing rose from about 400 in 2004 to 630 in 2005.

The August 2006 report also found that cases of sexual harassment of potential recruits or falsifying medical records more than doubled from 30 instances to 70. Examples of misconduct include making unrealistic promises to recruits, fraternizing with them during off hours, offering them cash or other incentives to enlist, and generally “coercive behavior,” according to Beth J. Asch , a researcher at the government-funded Rand Corporation who specializes in military recruiting issues. Criminal behavior includes underage drinking and sexual harassment. Recruiters have also been cutting corners to find enough bodies to meet their quota, some analysts say, turning a blind eye to problems that would ordinarily disqualify prospects from joining the Army: scrapes with the law, single parenthood, medical problems, and drug abuse. “The biggest problem is looking the other way on narcotics use” among prospective recruits, said Alan Gropman , a professor at the National Defense University in Washington.

Both analysts and the Pentagon said sexual misconduct is among the most pressing issues of recruiter wrongdoing. An investigation by the Associated Press found that in 2005, at least 80 male recruiters were disciplined for abusing female potential recruits. More than 100 young women who had expressed interest in joining the military reported that their recruiters had victimized them, the AP investigation found. The abuse included rape on couches in recruiting offices, assaults in government cars, and groupings en route to military entrance exams. The commander of the US Army Recruiting Command, Major General Thomas P. Bostick , issued an updated policy prohibiting recruiters from being alone with a potential applicant of the opposite sex. Instituting the "buddy system," the 14 MAR directive requires that during the recruiting process there will be at least one qualifying person present at all times whenever a recruiter meets with a prospect, applicant, or future soldier of the opposite gender. The Army command is implementing this policy “primarily to maintain the integrity of the recruiting process and enhance the credibility of that process with potential recruits, parents/guardians, communities, and school officials,” according to the directive. [Source: Boston Globe Bryan Bender article 19 Mar -07 ++]


WRAMC UPDATE 07: As House lawmakers worked to halt the planned closure of Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Sen. John Warner (R-VA) proposed a more modest change in the military’s plans. The former chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee said he wanted to accelerate construction projects at two other Washington-area military hospitals, which would absorb Walter Reed patients when the facility closes in 2011. Doing so would provide a “seamless turnover” for wounded troops, Warner said during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on the Army’s fiscal 2008 budget proposal. Warner also warned against overturning the base closure law to keep Walter Reed open, arguing that it would be a precedent-setting move that would spur lawmakers to try to halt other base closings. “I think it makes great sense,” acting Army Secretary Preston (Pete) Geren said of Warner’s proposal. The House Appropriations Committee on Thursday approved an amendment to the fiscal 2007 supplemental spending bill that would delay Walter Reed’s closure until the end of the war. It passed as part of a manager’s package of amendments. “This was a dumb, dumb thing,” Rep. Ray LaHood, R-Ill., the amendment’s sponsor, said of the decision to close Walter Reed. Many of the base closing decisions “were dumb,” he said, “but this was the dumbest.” [Source: GOVEXEC.com Daily Briefing 15 Mar 07]


BUG SAFETY (CHILDREN): Summer Safety tips.
 Don't use scented soaps, perfumes or hair sprays on your child.
 Avoid areas where insects nest or congregate, such as stagnant pools of water, uncovered foods and gardens where flowers are in bloom.
 Avoid dressing your child in clothing with bright colors or flowery prints.
 To remove a visible stinger from skin, gently scrape it off horizontally with a credit card or your fingernail.
 Insect repellents containing DEET are the most effective.

The concentration of DEET in products may range from less than 10% to over 30%. The benefits of DEET reach a peak at a concentration of 30%, the maximum concentration currently recommended for infants and children. DEET should not be used on children under 2 months of age. The concentration of DEET varies significantly from product to product, so read the label of any product you purchase. [Source: COPS Newsletter Spring 06 http://cops.cc/programs/resources]


WRAMC UPDATE 06: It was reported 15 MAR that there is a strong movement in Congress to try and reverse the decision of the Base Realignment and Closure Commission and remove Walter Reed Army Hospital from the list of military installations to be closed. The House Appropriations Committee passed the $124 billion Iraq/Afghanistan war supplemental spending bill and included in it an amendment authored by defense subcommittee chairman John Murtha of Pennsylvania that would prohibit Walter Reed Army Medical Center from being closed for the duration of the war in Iraq. The amendment was supported by both Democrats and Republicans on the committee. In question is what effect it will have on the BRAC process. BRAC has worked because it has been impenetrable, at least until now. No member of Congress wants to see a military installation closed in his or her district or state. The BRAC process has been successful because it has managed to close installations that were deemed unnecessary by preventing individual members of Congress from stopping the final decisions made by the BRAC Commission. By taking Walter Reed off the closing list a precedent may have been set that could have unintended consequences in future BRAC efforts. It should be noted that the reprieve for Walter Reed is conditional. Once the Iraq war is over it is very possible that Walter Reed will rejoin the list of installations scheduled to be closed. [Source: TREA Washington Update 16 Mar 07 ++]


MILLENNIUM COHORT STUDY: The Millennium Cohort Study was designed to evaluate the long-term health effects of military service, specifically deployments. The Department of Defense realized after the 1991 Gulf War that there was a need to collect more information about the long-term health of service members. The Millennium Cohort Study was designed to address that critical need, and the study was underway by 2001. Funded by the Department of Defense, and supported by military, Department of Veterans Affairs, and civilian researchers, almost 108,000 people have already participated in this groundbreaking study. The Millennium Cohort is comprised of two unique groups, the 2001 Cohort of 77,047 individuals and the 2004 Cohort of over 30,000 individuals. As force health protection continues to be a priority for the future of the United States military, the Millennium Cohort Study will be providing a crucial step towards enhancing the long-term health of military service members.

The Millennium Cohort Study at the Naval Health Research Center is launching its third enrollment effort. They will be contacting nearly 300,000 service members encouraging them to fill out the 2007 survey. The study will monitor the health of more than 150,000 members who served in all branches US military, making this the largest prospective military health study in the history of the United States armed forces. The survey will include active duty, veteran, and military retiree participants. This effort will span more than 20 years, and participants will be surveyed every three years, for self-reported health data. The results of this study have far-reaching potential and will shape policy on military service benefits and health care for years to come. Study information and documents are available for viewing at the Millennium Cohort website http://www.millenniumcohort.org. [Source: NAUS Weekly Update 16 Mar 07 ++]


NDAA 2008: Representatives of several Military Coalition members testified for two hours before the House Armed Services Military Personnel Subcommittee on 15 MAR, answering the Subcommittee's questions about priority issues for active duty, Guard/Reserve, and retired members and their families and survivors. Chairman Vic Snyder (D-AR) asked each representative what their priorities would be for inclusion in the FY2008 Defense Authorization Act, which the committee will be drafting next month. The Coalition representatives cited:

- Ensuring proper care, support, and smooth transition from military to VA services for wounded warriors and their families.
- Ensuring the services have enough manpower to meet their mission requirements and ease terrible stresses on active duty, Guard and Reserve families due to high deployment rates.
- Rejecting disproportional, budget-driven health fee increases and putting standards in law for military health benefits that recognize career military members' pre-payment of extraordinary, up-front premiums through decades of service and sacrifice.
- Correction of Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) inequities for "greatest generation" retirees and widows of members who die as a result of service.
- More progress in eliminating the disability offset to earned military retired pay.
- Continued progress in restoring full pay comparability for active duty, Guard and Reserve members who are paying such a high price in the current conflict’

Rep. John McHugh (R-NY), the Subcommittee's senior Republican, indicated the Subcommittee's strong sympathy with the concurrent receipt and SBP issues, but said it was unlikely that the Budget Resolution now being crafted by congressional leaders would provide enough budget headroom to permit full fixes. He asked whether the Coalition would be willing to consider interim steps to make additional progress.

MOAA Government Relations Director Col Steve Strobridge (USAF-Ret) responded that the Coalition had worked with the Subcommittee in the past on such efforts and would be willing to do so again as an alternative to making no progress at all. He highlighted the particular inequity facing combat-wounded members forced into medical retirement before attaining 20 years of service and urged the Subcommittee to at least "vest" retired pay for those members at 2.5% of pay times their years of service. Strobridge also indicated the importance of providing assistance to widows suffering deduction of VA survivor benefits from their SBP annuities, and highlighted the traumas many suffer as the Defense Finance and Accounting Service demands that they repay large amounts of previously paid SBP. [Source: MOAA Leg Up 16 Mar 07]


TAX ON HOME SALE: Many people remember the pre-1997 rules that required taxpayers to purchase a more expensive home within two years of the sale of a primary residence to defer capital gains. After age 55, taxpayers could downsize and receive a one-time capital gain exclusion of up to $125,000. The Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997 significantly changed primary residence tax treatment, making it potentially much more beneficial for taxpayers. The new rules allow for an exclusion from income taxes on up to $500,000 in gain on the sale of a personal residence if married, filing jointly and up to $250,000 for single filers under Internal Revenue Code Section 121. To qualify for this exclusion, taxpayers must meet these requirements:
■ Ownership. You (or your spouse, if married) must have owned the house for at least two of the previous five years.
■ Use. The home must have been used as the primary residence for two out of the previous five years. If you are married, both of you must meet this requirement. If one spouse does not, the exclusion is only $250,000. Servicemembers who meet the ownership test above may suspend the use requirement for up to 10 years if they are on qualified, official, extended duty for 90 days or more and are serving more than 50 miles from the primary residence or are living in government housing. IRS Publication 3, The Armed Forces’ Tax Guide (pages 11-12), explains this provision in detail.
■ Frequency. You may only use this exclusion every two years. If one spouse has sold a primary residence within the past two years, the exclusion is limited to $250,000.
These rules turn the primary residence back into a powerful investment tool, particularly in areas with significant price appreciation. For example, assuming you meet all requirements. If you bought your home in 1985 for $200,000 and have made $50,000 in improvements, your cost basis would be $250,000. If you sell the home for $800,000, paying a 6% real estate commission ($48,000) and incurred $15,000 in fix-up and miscellaneous expenses, your final effective sales price (sales price less selling costs) is $737,000. Their gain on the sale, then, is $737,000 minus $250,000 (basis), or $487,000. If you are married, filing jointly, and meet all requirements, you can exclude the entire gain from income taxes. A home must be a primary residence to qualify for this valuable exclusion. Vacation homes and rental properties do not qualify under this provision. For taxpayers who don’t meet all requirements but sell the primary residence because of job relocation, health issues, or unforeseen circumstances, a reduced exclusion might be available. IRS Publication 523 is the primary source for determining tax treatment for home sales. You can download the publication at www.irs.gov. [Source: MOAA Financial Forum May 06]


COLA 2008 UPDATE 04: The Bureau of Labor Statistics announced the February 2007 Consumer Price Index (CPI), which is the metric used to calculate the annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for military retired pay and annuities. The CPI had its third straight increase of FY2007 - 0.5% above January's CPI. However, the CPI still stands 0.3% below its starting point at the beginning of the fiscal year five months ago. This year's cumulative -0.3% through February is the lowest rate of inflation recorded for the first five months of any fiscal year for the past 30 years. But inflation could turn around quickly in the next seven months. The next quarter may give a clearer picture of where inflation may end up for 2007. The lowest COLA military retirees and annuitants received in the last 30 years was 0% in 1985. That year, Congress consciously eliminated the COLA for federal retirees and survivors to save money. The lowest COLAs based on actual inflation occurred in 1986 and 1998 at 1.3%. [Source: MOAA Leg Up 16 Mar 07]


VBDR: Department of Defense, through Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) as the Executive Agent, provides dose estimates for veterans who participated in the 1945-1946 occupation of Hiroshima or Nagasaki, Japan, and in U.S. sponsored atmospheric nuclear testing between 1945 and 1962. These dose reconstructions are used by the VA to evaluate and decide veterans' claims filed under the provisions of Public Law (PL) 98-542 and implementing regulations in Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations, part 3.311. In 1977 the radiation exposure military personnel received as a result of their participation in above-ground nuclear weapons tests became a national issue. A front page article was published in the Sunday paper supplement, Parade Magazine, about a report of an increased incidence of leukemia in veterans who had taken part in a nuclear weapons test at the Nevada Test Site. This test, Shot Smoky, was part of the Plumbbob Series conducted at the Nevada Test Site.

The Parade Magazine story was an initiating event for the need to assess doses for veterans who participated in nuclear weapons testing. Each of the military services, Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps quickly set up offices under the coordinating direction of the Defense Nuclear Agency (DNA), a legacy agency of the current DTRA to collect information on veterans who participated in weapons tests, information on their radiation exposures, and to respond to the significant number of inquiries that resulted. These offices were called Nuclear Test Personnel Review (NTPR) offices with the service name in front. These offices coordinated the initial services’ responses to the individual veterans and assisted DNA in responding to the Veterans Administration (Department of Veterans Affairs as of 1989), Congress, news media and the public.

Early on it was recognized that personnel dosimetry information for the veterans was fragmented between the services, DNA and the Nevada Test Site. DNA was designated the responsible Department of Defense organization to address the radiation exposures of the veterans for all of the services as well as to coordinate the services’ other NTPR activities. Since individual radiation exposure information often was not available, the need for a program of individual veteran's radiation dose reconstruction became apparent early in the NTPR program and was initiated by and performed under the guidance of DNA. In 1987 the functions of the individual service NTPR offices were incorporated into a single NTPR office at DTRA, where responsibility for the dose reconstruction program and the NTPR program currently reside.

In DEC 03 Congress directed the Secretaries of DoD and VA under Section 601 of Public Law (PL) 108-183 to appoint an advisory board to provide on-going independent review and oversight of the Dose Reconstruction (DR) Program. That board is titled the Veterans’ Advisory Board on Dose Reconstruction (VBDR) and under its charter is tasked to advise DoD and VA as follows :
(a) Conduct periodic, random audits of dose reconstructions and decisions on claims for radiogenic diseases;
(b) Assist the VA and DTRA in communicating to veterans information on the mission, procedures, and evidentiary requirements of dose reconstruction;
(c) Carry out other activities with regard to review and oversight of the Dose Reconstruction Program as specified jointly by the Secretaries; and
(d) Make recommendations on modifications to the mission and procedures of the Dose Reconstruction Program as the Advisory Board considers appropriate as a result of the audits.

The Committee is made up of medical, scientific and Atomic Veteran personnel. In MAR 07 they held a public meeting in Las Vegas NV at which the Committee unanimously voted to advise Congress to abolish the DR program. This program has, for the most part, worked to deny Atomic Veterans' Claims (with the exception of a limited number of cancers approved by Congress). Abolishing this time consuming, expensive, program will open the way for justice for numerous Atomic Veterans suffering from several medically recognized radiological diseases with the criteria being medical and not political. For additionally info on the VDBR refer to www.vbdr.org. [Source: eVeterans News 19 Mar 07 ++]


SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT 2007: The proposed House bill provides $1.7 billion for initiatives to address the healthcare needs of OIF/OEF veterans, particularly those suffering from traumatic brain injury and post traumatic stress disorder. Funding is also included to address facility deficiencies so the Department of Veterans Affairs does not have to defer facility maintenance and upkeep in order to provide quality health care services. Congressman Chet Edwards (D-TX-17), Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee sent a Dear Colleague communication to members of Congress on 15 MAR which details the VA funding included in the Emergency Supplemental Appropriations bill. A summary of the initiative follows:

* $6.3 million to support the Department announced initiative to establish polytrauma support clinic teams at each of the 21 regional health care networks to improve case management of veterans. This funding will prevent veterans from falling through the cracks once they return home;
* $20 million for a pilot program authorized in 1996 to use contract physicians for disability examinations. This funding will allow a veteran to see a physician closer to home for the initial disability visit thereby shortening the claims process time and make it easier for the veteran and his/her family;
* $62 million to hire additional compensation claims personnel to expeditiously handle the claims of veterans returning from OIF/OEF as well digitizing all combat unit records. Both initiatives will shorten the time it takes to process a compensation claim as well as reduce the current backlog of claims;
* $35 million to upgrade information technology systems to include programs that effectively screen all patients for traumatic brain injury and PTSD;
* $35 million to advance research in areas most impacted by the global war on terror, such as traumatic brain injury, PTSD, and prosthetics;
* $30 million for a new Level I comprehensive polytrauma center. Congress established four Level I comprehensive polytrauma centers in 2005, which are the rehabilitation centers where active duty and veterans go after they leave the hospital and before they go home;
* $45 million to upgrade facilities at the existing four Level I and 17 Level II polytrauma centers;
* $100 million for contract mental health care. This funding allows the Department to contract with private mental health care providers to ensure that OIF/OEF veterans are seen in a timely and least disruptive fashion, including members of the Guard and Reserve;
* $56 million to ensure the Department has sufficient funds to maintain an adequate supply of state-of-the-art prosthetics for veterans;
* $228.9 million directed for treatment of OIF/OEF patients. In fiscal year 2006, the Department underestimated the number of OIF/OEF patients in the system by 40 percent. While the Committee understands the Department has revised the model used to calculate these projections and expects to track their estimates more closely, year-to-date information suggests the model may still be immature so this funding provides for a higher level of patients;
* $250 million for medical administration to ensure there are sufficient personnel to support the growing number of OIF/OEF veterans and to maintain a high level of service to all veterans in the system. This account funds the support staff such as appointment and records clerks that increase physician efficiency and improve access to care;
* $550 million for non-recurring maintenance which will allow the Department to make some headway in addressing the $5 billion backlog identified in their Facility Condition Assessment. The bill also includes $260 million for minor construction to address the backlog of projects at locations throughout the country. These amounts are intended to prevent the Department from experiencing a situation similar to that found at Walter Reed; and
* $23.8 million to complete a spinal cord injury center, already under construction.
[Source: eVeterans News 19 Mar 07 ++]


WILL ROGERS MEMORIAL MUSEUM: Will Rogers, the American Cowboy-Humorist, comedian, social commentator, vaudeville performer, and actor was probably the greatest political sage this country has ever known. He died in a plane crash with Wylie Post in 1935 at the age of 54. At the time of his death he was America’s most widely read newspaper columnist, between his daily "Will Rogers Says" telegrams which he composed daily to address each day's news and his weekly column. His Sunday night half-hour radio show was the nation's most-listened-to weekly broadcast. In both, he expressed his disappointment with big government and the effect it had on the nation, particularly during the Depression era. His wit was often caustic: as he explained, "There's no trick to being a humorist when you have the whole government working for you." Nevertheless, he identified with the Democratic Party saying "I don't belong to any organized party. I'm a Democrat," and was a vocal supporter of Franklin Delano Roosevelt. At one point, he was even asked to run for governor of Oklahoma, the party hoping to benefit from his immense popularity.

In the United States Capitol Building each state is allowed to have two statues. In memorial he was given this honor by the state of Oklahoma. It is said that as Presidents walk by the Will Rogers statue on the way to give a State of the Union speech it is good luck to rub the shoes on the statue. The Will Rogers Memorial Museum is located at 1720 West Will Rogers Blvd, Claremore Ok 74018 Tel: (918) 341-0719 wrinfo@willrogers.com. It is open 365 days a year 0800-1700. Admission to the nine galleries, three theaters, interactive television, and special children's museum is by voluntary contributions. For additional info refer to www.willrogers.org. Following are some examples of his wit:

1. Never slap a man who's chewing tobacco.
2. Never kick a cow chip on a hot day.
3. There are 2 theories to arguing with a woman...neither works.
4. Never miss a good chance to shut up.
5. Always drink upstream from the herd.
6. If you find yourself in a hole, stop digging.
7. The quickest way to double your money is to fold it and put it back in your pocket.
8. There are three kinds of men: The ones that learn by reading. The few who learn by observation. The rest of them have to pee on the electric fence and find out for themselves.
9. Good judgment comes from experience, and a lot of that comes from bad judgment.
10. If you're riding' ahead of the herd, take a look back every now and then to make sure it's still there.
11. Lettin' the cat outta the bag is a whole lot easier'n puttin' it back.
12. After eating an entire bull, a mountain lion felt so good he started roaring. He kept it up until a hunter came along and shot him. The moral: When you're full of bull, keep your mouth shut.

About Growing Older...
First ~ Eventually you will reach a point when you stop lying about your age and start bragging about it.
Second ~ The older we get, the fewer things seem worth waiting in line for
Third ~ Some people try to turn back their odometers. Not me, I want people to know "why" I look this way. I've traveled a long way and some of the roads weren't paved.
Fourth ~ When you are dissatisfied and would like to go back to youth, think of Algebra.
Fifth ~ You know you are getting old when everything either dries up or leaks.
Sixth ~ I don't know how I got over the hill without getting to the top.
Seventh ~ One of the many things no one tells you about aging is that it is such a nice change from being young.
Eighth ~ One must wait until evening to see how splendid the day has been.
Ninth ~ Being young is beautiful, but being old is comfortable.
Tenth ~ Long ago when men cursed and beat the ground with sticks, it was called witchcraft. Today it's called golf
And finally ~ If you don't learn to laugh at trouble, you won't have anything to laugh at when you are old.
[Source: eVeterans News 19 Mar 07 ++]


FUTURE FOR VETS COMMISSION: The Commission on the Future for America’s Veterans began operating in SEP 06 as a private, independent, analytical body to examine the needs of veterans 20 years in the future, and develop recommendations for how the federal government should meet those needs. Over the next 15 months, the Commission will be holding meetings and conducting research to develop and deliver recommendations to the President, the Congress, and the America public by Memorial Day 2008. The Commission was created by the Veterans Coalition, an organization that includes The American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), AMVETS, Vietnam Veterans of America, Blinded American Veterans Foundation, Jewish War Veterans, and Military Order of the Purple Heart. The Commission is currently engaged in a multi-state tour actively seeking input from military veterans, veterans’ experts, and other Americans interested in supporting veterans. The tour began at Charleston WV in JAN 07, continued for 3 days in mid-MAR in Tampa FL, goes to San Diego CA at the end of May, and then on to Cincinnati OH in July.

The centerpiece of their Tampa visit was an open, public “town hall” meeting held in which hundreds of Florida residents were able to speak directly to the Commission about their experiences with VA today and their hopes for its future. This “town hall” meeting, called “Conversations on the Future for America’s Veterans”, was webcast live over the Internet. During the week, the Commission conducted tours of the VA nursing home at Bay Pines and the polytrauma and spinal cord injury units at the Haley VA hospital in Tampa. The Commission also heard several hours of expert testimony about the future of VA research, academic affiliations, and information management and technology. Among the experts who spoke to the Commission were: Dr. Steven Scott, Medical Director, Tampa Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center; Dr. Joel Kupersmith, VA Chief of Research and Development; Dr. Paul Tibbits, VA Deputy Chief Information Officer; Dr. Malcolm Cox, Chief Academic Affiliations Officer; Dr. Jordan J. Cohen of the American Association of Medical Colleges; Dr. Lynn Wecker, Associate Dean for Research at the University of South Florida College of Medicine; and Mr. Gary Ewart, Director of Research at Friends of VA Research.

Managing Commissioner Harry N. Walters in a press release said that, “the Commission on the Future for America’s Veterans has taken major strides towards its goal of developing a vision and plan for how this nation can best deliver needed benefits and services to our veterans far into the future." Harry Walters previously served as Administrator of Veterans Affairs under President Ronald Reagan. For additional information on the commission’s work refer to www.future4vets.org. Among other items the site provides a summary of healthcare, benefits, transition, catastrophic disability, National Guard and Reserve issues under review by the Commission. [Source: VA Secretary VSOL Office Kevin Secor msg 19 Mar 07 ++]


DFAS DEATH NOTIFICATION UPDATE 01: The Death of a Military Retiree or Annuitant can be reported to Defense finance and Accounting Service at either (800) 269-5170 or (800) 321-1080 07-1930 EST M-F. You need to have the decedent’s Social Security Number (SSN) and the date of death when you call. If reporting by mail send to DFAS U.S. Military, Retirement Pay, P.O. Box 7130, London, KY 40742-7130 or Fax: (800) 469-6559 for retirees and U.S. Military, Annuitant Pay, P.O. Box 7130, London, KY 40742-7131 or Fax: (800) 982-8459 for Annuitants. Send one photocopy of a death certificate which indicates the cause of death. DFAS will take steps to close out the pay account to prevent any overpayments. If the decedent was a retiree enrolled in the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) and/or the Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP), additional steps will be taken to initiate pay accounts for eligible survivors. Designated beneficiaries of retirees should expect a Standard Form 1174 (SF-1174) and, if applicable, SBP/RSFPP-related forms in the mail within seven to ten business days of reporting the death. For assistance call either of the numbers listed above or refer to www.dod.mil/dfas/retiredpay/reportingde ... itant.html.
Telephone numbers of other government offices which may need to be contacted are:

- Social Security Administration (SSA) at (800) 772-1213.
- Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) at (800) 538-9552.
- If the deceased was receiving disability compensation or Dependency Indemnity Compensation (DIC), notify the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) at (800) 827-1000.
- If the deceased was a civil servant or retired civil servant, notify the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) toll-free at (888) 767-6738.
- If the deceased was enrolled in DVA-sponsored insurance such as National Service Life Insurance (NSLI) or Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI), notify them at (800) 669-8477.

Those living near a military installation may be able to receive help with administrative matters from a Casualty Assistance Officer (CAO) or Retired Activities/Affairs Office (RAO). Note that these services are not available at all military installations/geographic locales. Those living in the Philippines can call the VA Regional Office from 08-1600 M-F at 528-6300 [embassy operator], 528-2500 [direct line] or for outside Metro Manila you may call toll free at 1-800-1-888-5252. To notify SSA call (63-2) 523-1001ext. 6228 To notify either SSA or VA by mail send to 1201 Roxas Boulevard - Ermita 1000 – Manila. Some additional toll-free numbers you may find useful are:

Armed Forces Benefit Association (AFBA): (800) 776-2322
Army & Air Force Mutual Aid Association (AAFMAA): (800) 522-5221
Burial at Sea: (888) 647-6676 (option 4)
Funeral Honors: (877) 645-4667
Military Benefit Association: (800) 336-0100
Officers Benefit Association: (800) 736-7311
Uniformed Service Benefit Association: (800) 368-7021
[Source: DFAS Mar 07 ++]


RETURNING GWT HEROES TF: On 6 MAR 07 the President directed VA Secretary Nicholson to establish an Interagency Task Force on Returning Global War on Terror Heroes. The Task Force will consist of Secretaries, or their designees, from the Departments of Veterans Affairs, Defense, Labor, Health and Human Services, Housing and Urban Development, and Education. The Director, Office of Management and Budget, and the Administrator, Small Business Administration, will also serve on the Task Force. The mission of the Task Force is to:

(a) Identify and examine existing Federal services that currently are provided to returning Global War on Terror service members;
(b) Identify existing gaps in such services;
(c) Seek recommendations from appropriate Federal agencies on ways to fill those gaps as effectively and expeditiously as possible using existing resources; and
(d) Ensure that in providing services to these service members, appropriate Federal agencies are communicating and cooperating effectively, and facilitate the fostering of agency communications and cooperation through informal and formal means, as appropriate.

The Task Force is focused on improvements using existing executive authority and resources. The Commission will report its recommendations to the President via the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veteran affairs and will provide a final report no later than 30 JUN 07. To further their study on how to enhance combat veteran services and reduce red tape they are inviting feedback from those concerned. People can email their comments to the task force at TFHeroes@va.gov or fax comments to 202-273-9599. Task Force information and mailing address can be obtained on the VA home page, www.va.gov/taskforce. The Web page allows active duty service members, veterans, family members and others to comment directly to the task force on the accessibility, timeliness and delivery of services. Comments will be studied by the task force, used in the panel’s evaluation of gaps in service and form the basis of recommended solutions. Under the terms of the executive order creating the task force, the group has 45 days to complete their mission. [Source: VA Press Release 15 Mar 07 ++]


HEPATITIS & LIVER CANCER: Some 200 million people worldwide are infected with the hepatitis C virus of which nearly 5 million of these are in the U.S. Each year about 230,000 new hepatitis C infections are recorded. Hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver, usually from a viral infection but sometimes from toxic agents. Five known viruses cause inflammation of the liver resulting in hepatitis A, B, C, D or E. Hepatitis C is the single most significant cause of liver disease and liver transplants, spreading through contact with infected blood and other body fluids. Viral hepatitis symptoms are similar, no matter the type. Some people infected with hepatitis C show no symptoms but can infect others without knowing it. Symptoms can take up to 20 or 30 years to appear. They include jaundice, fever, loss of appetite, fatigue, dark urine, joint pain, abdominal pain, diarrhea and nausea. Rarely will viral hepatitis alone cause liver failure and death. Rather, those with chronic hepatitis C infection are more susceptible to liver failure , or cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Increases in the rate of liver cancer over the past two or three decades may well be due to hepatitis C virus acquired during the 1960’s and 1970’s. The risk of Hepatitis C, as well as other blood-borne diseases can be lowered through lifestyle precautions. Other risk factors are beyond a person’s control. Most at risk are people who:
= Are hemodialysis patients;
= Have ever injected drugs;
= Have jobs that expose them to human blood;
= Received a blood transfusion before July 1992;
= received clotting factors made before1987;
= Have had sexual contact with an infected person; or
= Have has multiple sex partners.

Several blood tests can determine if you have been infected with hepatitis C. Your doctor may order just one or combination of these tests. Two drugs currently approved for treatment re interferon and ribavirin, which can be taken alone are in combination. No vaccinations are currently available. In 1998 VA opened a national registry to identify patients with hepatitis C and track their clinical status with the goal of improving care. A recent study of nearly 1300 patients at 20 VA medical centers found a hepatitis C infection rate of 5.4%. The figure for Vietnam veterans was more than double that. Another study found that up to 70% of new hepatitis-C patients are unable to begin antiviral therapy

[boardman]

RAO Bulletin Update
15 April 2007


THIS BULLETIN UPDATE CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING ARTICLES:

== Servers Block Bulletin --------------------------- (Those Affected)
== Making Sure You Get Your Email -------------- (How To)
== Agent Orange VAVA Compensation --------- (VietNamese/RoK Vets)
== RC Postal Employee Back Pay ------ (Improper Leave Assessment)
== VA Polytrauma Website ------------------------ (New)
== Canes For Veterans ----------------------------- (No Charge)
== WRAMC [08] --------------------------- (Review Group Report)
== Veterans Disabilities Hearing ---------- (VA/DoD Disparities)
== VA Performance Report --------------- (Best in Federal Sector)
== Mobilized Reserve 11 APR 07 ---------------- (Net Increase 1102)
== Wounded Warrior USMC Regiment ---------- (Established 1 APR)
== Great Pond Recreational Facility -------------- (MWR Vacation site)
== Tricare Anencephaly Abortion ----------------- (Cannot be Claimed)
== Tricare Supplemental Insurance [01] --------- (Factors to Consider)
== Trichloroethylene (TCE) Exposure ------------ (Impact on Humans)
== Philippine DEERS Registration [02] ---------- (ID Cards in PI)
== VA Claim Fixers ------------------------ (Jeopardizing Benefits)
== National Park Passports [01] ------------------ (JAN 07 Change)
== Medicare Scams [01] --------------------------- (Insurance)
== Premium Conversion [01] --------------------- (Pre-tax Dollars)
== Caffeine ------------------------------------------ (Common Doses)
== VA Retro Pay Project [07] ------------ (Processing thru DEC 07)
== AAFES Match It Program --------------------- (Lower Prices)
== Army Survivor’s Call Center ----------------- (New POC)
== Tricare EOBs [01 ----------------------- (TFL Policy Reversal)
== Navy Personal Data Breach [03] -------------- (Another Breach)
== Combat Zone Death Tax Reporting ---------- (How to)
== VA Personal Data ------------------------------- (How to Update)
== Air Force Email for Life ---------------- (Effective April 07)
== Space "A" Travel Policy ------------------------ (Changes)
== PTSD [12] ----------------------- (Alternative Sentencing Program)
== Vet Job Website ---------------------- (HirePatriots.com)
== WW1 Vet Search [02] -------------------------- (Only 4 Left)
== Depleted Uranium [02] ------------- (Gulf War Syndrome Cause)
== VA HOSPITAL Care [01] ---------------------- (Still the Best)
== Cigarette Fire-safe Law ---------------- (Self Extinguishment)
== Tricare Ambulance Service Claims [01] ----- (Prerequisites)
== VA Social Workers ------------------------------ (Help Available)
== VA Social Workers [01] ------------------------ (How They Help)
== Household Hints --------------------------------- (Useful Inf0)
== Veteran Legislation Status 13 APR 07 ------- (Where we stand)

Editor’s Note: Attached is a listing of veteran legislation with current cosponsor status that has been introduced in the 110th Congress. To see any of these bills passed into law representatives need input from their veteran constituents to guide them on how to vote.

SERVERS BLOCK BULLETIN: Recent updates to a number of servers’ programs have impacted on a number of reader’s ability to receive their Bulletin Updates. This seems to be an industry wide approach to deal with spam which places greater demands on users to ensure their computers are set up properly to receive email they want to receive. Last year AOL initiated changes that resulted in my having to delete over 12,000 of their users from the Bulletin directory. Now many MSN & Hotmail users are being prevented from receiving their Bulletin. The methodology by which the server’s are installing their changes prevents the sender or user from knowing a message has been blocked. The only way I know on this end is if a subscriber sends me a message asking me why he/she is no longer receiving the Bulletin. Recently about 300 of the 2,556 MSN & 5030 Hotmail users on my directory have sent messages. To ensure continued receipt of the Bulletin suggest all readers follow the guidance of the next article titled, “Making Sure You Get Your Email” if you did not receive any recent Bulletins. For those who are not currently having a problem you may want to retain the below for future use in the event you server starts blocking your email. If this does not work for you and calling your server does not resolve the situation you can always refer to http://post_119_gulfport_ms.tripod.com/rao1.html to read the latest Bulletin or forward me another email addee to send to. [Source: Editor RAO Bulletin 14 Apr 07]


MAKING SURE YOU GET YOUR EMAIL: Because of spammers, many Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and mail services use filters to keep spam out of their customer's email inboxes. Unfortunately, in the ever-escalating war between spammers and ISPs/mail services, many are accidentally caught in their cross-fire. The result is that ISPs or mail services often filter out email that you specifically ask to receive, such as this Bulletin. After you subscribe to anything like the Bulletin, you should take the following “whitelisting” steps to ensure that you actually will receive it.
- "Whitelist" the Bulletin’s Email addees in the Email Program on Your Computer
- "Whitelist" the Bulletin’s Email addees in the Spam Filter Software on Your Computer
- "Whitelist" the Bulletin’s Email addees at your ISP (Earthlink, Comcast, etc.) or Mail Service (Hotmail, Yahoo mail, etc.)

1. Whitelisting in the Email Program on Your Computer (ex., Outlook, Eudora): Put the e-mail addees (raoemo@sbcglobal.net & raoemo@mozcom.com) into your e-mail program's Address Book and any "approved senders list" or "whitelist" it uses. This will help to get the Bulletins through corporate mail filters and other less-than-sensible blockers: Most e-mail software now has both built-in spam-filtering and whitelisting features. You can also create your own special filters to accept and file incoming e-mail, and to trash other ones. See your software's help menu for information about spam filters, whitelisting, and creating your own filters, so that you can indicate to your software to accept mail from addees you want to receive.

2. Whitelisting in the Spam Filter Program on Your Computer (ex., McAfee SpamKiller): If you are using third-party spam filter software on your computer (ex., McAfee SpamKiller) to augment your e-mail software, indicate to that filtering software to accept emails from raoemo@sbcglobal.net & raoemo@mozcom.com. Either add them to some kind of a white list (or a "good list" or similar name), or click to indicate that mail filtered into a "Junk" folder is not junk -- all systems follow similar patterns, but the names may change. It is usually pretty straightforward, but you may need to search the software's Help menu for a bit of direction.
NOTE: Since the e-mail software-and-filter on your computer is the very end of the line, the Bulletin may be filtered out before it even gets to your computer. If you don't get e-mail that you are expecting, your ISP or mail service may be responsible.

3. Whitelisting Internet Service Providers (ISPs): Increasingly, Internet Service Provides that deliver your email (ex., earthlink.net, comcast.net) and mail services (ex., Hotmail, Yahoo) are using filtering systems to try to keep spam out of customers' inboxes. Sometimes, though, they accidentally filter the e-mail that you do want to receive. Even worse, they often do not tell you what they have filtered out, so you never know whether a legitimate email has been deleted. The volume of spam is enormous and the algorithms to figure out what is spam (and what is not) are complicated, thus mistakes frequently do happen. Here's how to add raoemo@sbcglobal.net & raoemo@mozcom.com to the "whitelist" of your ISP or mail service. However, the procedure varies from ISP/mail service to service, so find the one below that applies to you.

AOL - Place raoemo@sbcglobal.net & raoemo@mozcom.com in your Address Book. Check AOL help for details, if necessary. Different versions have different features. For example in version 7.0, go to Keyword Mail Controls -- after you select your screen name and left-click on "Customize Mail Controls For This Screen Name," enter the above domains in the section "exclusion and inclusion parameters." For AOL version 8.0, select "Allow email from all AOL members, email addresses and domains." Then left-click on "Next" until the Save button shows up at the bottom. Left click on "Save."

ATT.net - If Spam-blocker is enabled and if the e-mail message is legitimate and was screened as spam, forward the original message as an attachment to this-is-not-spam@worldnet.att.net.

ATTGlobal.net - Your Graymail folder contains all possible spam e-mail. The Graymail folder shows up on the Spam Control page only after you activate the "Filter" option. Before you activate that option, there is no Graymail folder. Once you have enabled the Spam Control feature, they have created an e-mail addresses for you to send your feedback. If you receive e-mail identified as <> and it is not spam, send that information to notspammail@attglobal.net.

Bellsouth.com - You must opt-out of MailGuard to receive e-mail from us. Once it is received forward it (with full headers) to this_is_good@bellsouth.net to have raoemo@sbcglobal.net & raoemo@mozcom.com whitelisted.

Other ISPs - Each ISP is a little different, but the idea is the same. ISPs usually provide help or instructions about whitelisting. But... If you can't find how to add the Bulletin email addee to a whitelist, call or e-mail your ISP's tech support or postmaster@your-isp.com and specifically ask how you can be sure to receive all e-mail from raoemo@sbcglobal.net & raoemo@mozcom.com.

4. Whitelisting Mail Services:

Hotmail or MSN - Place raoemo@sbcglobal.net & raoemo@mozcom.com on what they call your Safe List. The "Safe List" can be accessed via the "Options" link, situated to the far right of the main menu tabs. NOTE: Hotmail's "safe list" often does not work.

USA.net - Login to your e-mail account and click on Services in the left-hand Navbar. You can Whitelist there. To configure your personal white list filters, follow these steps:
Determine what you would like done to the messages that match one of your filters. This generally fits into two categories, Override or Exclusive.
a.) Override allows you to override your spam filters, including system spam filtering, and is handy when you have mail that is occasionally incorrectly marked as spam by the system spam filters.
b.) Exclusive allows you to limit the mail you receive to only those messages that match your White List; all other mail messages will either be considered Junk Mail or automatically deleted. If you choose Exclusive, you will need to specify whether to keep the mail as Junk Mail or to delete the mail.
If you choose to delete all mail that does not match your White List, this mail cannot be recovered later.

Yahoo! Mail - If the Bulletin is filtered to your 'bulk' folder, open the message and click on the "This is not spam" link next to the "From" field. You can also create a "filter" at Yahoo that sends the Bulletin e-mail into your Inbox and not the Junk/Bulk Mail folder. Here's how:
1) Open your Yahoo e-mail. Left-click on "Mail Options" (right side of your screen). In the right hand column, under "Management," left-click on "Filters." And then, left-click on "Add Filter."
2) Call this filter "PCOS Health Review".
3) See where it says... "if all of the following rules are true ..."? Go to the top row labeled "From header," choose "contains" in the drop-down menu and type in raoemo@sbcglobal.net & raoemo@mozcom.com.
4) At the bottom, choose "Inbox" from the drop-down menu where it says "Move the message to:"
5) Finally, left-click on the "Add Filter" button.

Other Mail Services - Each mail service is a little different, but the idea is the same. If you can't find how to add the email addees to a whitelist, try adding them to your address book, or moving the messages from the Junk folder to your 'inbox' or forwarding the message to yourself (if you're getting it at all, that is). If e-mail continues to be filtered out, call or e-mail your mail service tech support or postmaster@your-mailservice.com and specifically ask how you can be sure to receive all e-mail from raoemo@sbcglobal.net & raoemo@mozcom.com.
[Source: http://www.wnd.com/resources/whitelist.asp Mar 07 ++]


AGENT ORANGE VAVA COMPENSATION: South Korean and Vietnamese veterans of the Vietnam War are demanding compensation from US manufacturers of Agent Orange, which they say has caused them ongoing illnesses. The veterans share a bitter past as well as present agony. What they claim are the lingering after-effects of the deadly defoliant sprayed by the US during the war. More than 4.7 million Vietnamese are said to continue to suffer from a range of illnesses, including birth defects, cardiovascular disease, cancer and nervous disorders because of the chemical defoliant dropped during the war in which South Korea fought alongside the U.S. troops. South Korean activists estimate the number of Korean victims of the chemicals at around 150,000. According to official data, South Korea dispatched about 320,000 soldiers to Vietnam to become the largest foreign contingent of U.S. allies fighting in the war, with 5,000 killed in action and nearly 11,000 others wounded.

Do Xuan Dien, 75-year-old former army major general and Vietnamese veteran, told Yonhap News Agency, “The past is bygone. South Korea and Vietnam are friends and partners for now and the future”. Dien came to Seoul for a week-long stay in his capacity as vice president of the Vietnam's Association of Victims of Agent Orange (VAVA). He is heading a nine-member delegation from the VAVA, which paid homage to the fallen soldiers at the National Cemetery in Seoul, along with around 120 members of the South Korean group of Agent Orange victims. “We are preparing for a lawsuit against the makers of Agent Orange. So we want to learn from the South Korean group's experience.” the grey-haired Vietnamese man said. Last year, a South Korean court ordered Dow Chemical Co. and Monsanto Co., two makers of Agent Orange, to pay US$62 million in compensation to thousands of South Korean Vietnam war veterans and their families. [Source: Thanh Nien News 09 Apr 07 ++]

RC POSTAL EMPLOYEE BACK PAY: As many as 100,000 National Guard and Reserve members who worked at the U.S. Postal Service between 1980 and 2000 could be eligible for thousands of dollars in compensation because they were improperly charged for military leave, under a new policy. The Merit Systems Protection Board decision greatly expands the scope of a larger back-pay issue that ultimately could cost the government a billion dollars, said Matthew Tully, a New York attorney who is representing affected employees pro bono. Previous rulings have held that between 150,000 and 200,000 Guard and Reserve members who worked for executive ranch agencies between 1980 and 2000 are eligible for back pay because of an erroneous leave policy. In a 7 MAR ruling, Miller v. U.S. Postal Service, MSPB said Reservists who worked at the Postal Service also are covered because that agency used the same policy. Tully said, “Next to the Defense Department, the Postal Service is the largest single employer of Guard and Reserve members. Complying with the decision could cost the Postal Service upwards of $200 million. They’re probably going to have to jack up the price of stamps 3 or 4 cents just to pay for the outcome of this decision.”

The Postal Service did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Postal Service could appeal the ruling to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, although that court in 2003 issued the landmark decision that employees were entitled to back pay because federal agencies improperly charged Reservists on military leave for days they were not scheduled to work at their federal jobs. The policy, which was changed in 2000, had charged reservists for every calendar day they were on military leave, instead of charging them for the actual work days they missed. Reservists who used their military leave because they were charged for weekends or other days they weren’t scheduled to work had to use their own vacation days or take leave without pay to complete their annual training. [Source:, Military Times Tim Kauffman article Apr 07 ++]


VA POLYTRAUMA WEBSITE: VA’s Polytrauma System of Care has a new website at http://www.polytrauma.va.gov. This site contains general information about Polytrauma and is home to a page for each of the four Polytrauma Rehabilitation Centers and 17 additional Polytrauma Network Sites (the Rehabilitation Centers are considered Network Sites as well). Additionally, there are Polytrauma Support Clinic Teams. Current plans estimate the final number of these teams will be near 75. Additionally, current fact sheets for both Traumatic Brain Injury and Polytrauma are available on the VA Communications Management Intranet site: http://vaww.va.gov/webcom/guidance0307.asp. The files are titled, “Polytrauma Fact Sheet,” “TBI Talking Points,” and “TBI News Release.” [Source: NAUS Weekly Update 13 Apr 07 ++]


CANES FOR VETERANS: Can-Am Care, LLC, announced in APR the “HUGO Salutes Our Veterans” program to provide folding canes to World War II and Korean War Veterans. The HUGO Folding Canes with Interchangeable Handles will be provided at no charge to Veterans who may be in need of mobility assistance. According to Can-Am Care, the program is instituted to recognize the support and efforts members of the United States Armed Forces made for our country during World War II and the Korean War. Can-Am manufactures the HUGO Folding Cane and a number of related mobility assistance products. Veterans are encouraged to contact Can-Am Care at 1(888) 412-4992 M-F 08-1600 EST or refer to www.HUGOSalutes.com. Proof of service may be required. [Source: NAUS Weekly Update 13 Apr 07 ++]


WRAMC UPDATE 08: The Independent Review Group, created by Defense Secretary Robert Gates to identify shortcomings and needed improvements for patients and families at Walter Reed, Bethesda, and other casualty treatment centers, met on 11 APR to present draft findings and recommendations. The group identified significant shortcomings in transition from inpatient care to outpatient care, and in leadership, policy and oversight. The final report will be submitted to the Secretary of Defense by 16 APR 07. Some of the recommendations were to:
1). Improve case management and assign a family advocate to assist family members.
2). Improve case management and assign a family advocate to assist family members.
3). Create guidelines for screening and treating Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
4). Jointly with the VA create a TBI and PTSD Center of Excellence to coordinate research, training, and clinical guidelines.
5). Completely overhaul the Medical and Physical Evaluation Boards into one DoD/VA solution. Fitness for Duty determinations should be made by DoD, while disability ratings should be made by the VA.
6). Improve care provided to Reservists for service-connected injuries and illnesses.
7). Accelerate current BRAC plans to construct a joint Army/Navy medical center at the Navy medical center in Bethesda to speed transition for the severely wounded.
[Source: MOAA Leg Up 1 Apr 07 ++]


VETERANS DISABILITIES HEARING: On 12 APR a rare joint Senate Armed Services and Veterans Affairs hearing on Capitol Hill was held to hear testimony on the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs disability rating systems and the transition of service members from DoD to VA. Several key senators also took the opportunity to voice concerns over the Army's new 15-month deployment schedule. Deputy Secretary of Defense Gordon England and other senior DoD and VA witnesses testified at the hearing. Lt. Gen. Terry Scott, Chairman of the VDBC, pointed out some preliminary data that the VDBC has received indicates that there is a very large gap in what the DoD awards in disability to service members deemed to be unable to continue their military service and what the VA awards. He noted that since the year 2000 the Army had discharged 13,000 members who by Army standards did not qualify for even a 10% disability rating but when these same members went to the VA for adjudication they were awarded an average of 56% disabilities.

He also cited significant disparities in disability ratings awarded by different services. Of 50,000 disability separations/retirements by the Army over the last 7 years, the Army granted 30-percent or higher disability ratings - which provides eligibility for disability retirement benefits - to only 13% of them. The disability retirement award rates for the Navy and Air Force were more than twice as high: 36% and 27%, respectively. The rate for the Marines was 18%. A number of senators questioned whether the Army in particular was "low-balling" soldiers' disabilities to save money. By policy, DoD's disability rating system limits the number of conditions rated and consistently rates lower than the VA. To fix the inequity, General Scott offered an initial recommendation that DoD should determine fitness for duty and the VA should then conduct a comprehensive physical and assign a disability rating.

This was quickly picked up by one of the Co-Chairs, Sen. Carl Levin (D-MI), Senate Armed Forces Committee Chairman who asked DoD Deputy Secretary Gordon England to provide the Department’s comments on this suggestion within two weeks. Additionally Scott pointed out the failures of the DoD and VA to come up with a viable solution to the problem of electronic transfer of medical records. Another committee member Sen. Hilary Clinton (D-NY) questioned why an entirely new system needed to be developed when one system, the VA’s VISTA system, was up and running very well and in fact was consistently winning awards from groups outside of the government. She further stated that DoD should quickly develop what it needs in the way of “battlefield” applications and work with the VA to make sure it integrates well with the existing system. For more info on Lt. Gen. Terry Scott’s testimony refer to http://armed-services.senate.gov/statem ... -12-07.pdf. [Source: NAUS Weekly Update 13 Apr & MOAA Leg UP 14 Apr 07 ++]


VA PERFORMANCE REPORT: Continuing its commitment to give veterans a clear, meaningful view of how the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is performing, VA was recently rated by an independent research center as having one of the best annual performance reports in the federal sector for the eighth year in a row. The findings of this prestigious research center show that it was among the best in the federal sector at providing meaningful information to the American public about their operations and performance. Since 2000, the Mercatus Center of George Mason University has examined the performance and accountability reports issued annually by federal agencies. This year, VA tied for second-best in the federal government, receiving 51 points on a 60-point scale. VA also tied for having the highest score in transparency, an example of the Department’s commitment to provide information that is useful and easy to understand. The new Mercatus study named the “Eighth Annual Performance Report Scorecard: Which Federal Agencies Best Inform the Public?” found VA’s reports are rich in information on efforts to improve programmatic and managerial performance. VA Secretary Nicholson said these findings show that VA has developed a management culture that sets high standards, measurable goals and accountability to the American public. VA published its latest performance and accountability report in NOV 06. It documents VA’s progress toward ensuring that America’s veterans and their families receive timely, compassionate, high-quality care and benefits. The Department’s report can be found on the Internet at: http://www.va.gov/budget/report. Anyone wishing to receive e-mail from VA with the latest news releases and updated fact sheets can subscribe to the VA Office of Public Affairs Distribution List at http://www1.va.gov/opa/pressrel/opa_ListServ.asp. [Source: Federal Record 4/13/07 ++]


MOBILIZED RESERVE 11 APR 07: The Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard announced the current number of reservists on active duty as of 28 MAR 07 in support of the partial mobilization. The net collective result is 1,102 more reservists mobilized than last reported for 28 MAR 07. Total number currently on active duty in support of the partial mobilization for the Army National Guard and Army Reserve is 63,689; Navy Reserve 6,404; Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve 5,079; Marine Corps Reserve 5,514; and the Coast Guard Reserve 302. This brings the total National Guard and Reserve personnel, who have been mobilized, to 80,998, including both units and individual augmentees. At any given time, services may mobilize some units and individuals while demobilizing others, making it possible for these figures to either increase or decrease. A cumulative roster of all National Guard and Reserve personnel, who are currently mobilized, can be found at http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Apr2007 ... 411ngr.pdf.

The Marine Corps’ recent callup of some 1,800 Individual Ready Reserves (IRR) will near the limit of 2,500 IRR troops the Marines can put on active duty at one time. Nevertheless, Marine Commandant Gen. James Conway says he has no plans to ask the president to raise the limit. However, he told a Senate panel that the deployment tempo leaves Marines only enough time during their dwell period to conduct refresher training before re-deploying. He also acknowledged concern that the short turnaround time prevents the Corps from preparing for other contingencies because it is no longer conducting combined arms live-fire exercises at Twentynine Palms and said Marines are receiving little mountain-warfare, jungle or amphibious training. [Source: DoD News Release 11 Apr 07 ++]


WOUNDED WARRIOR USMC REGIMENT: Before the exposure of shoddy administration and lodging of wounded soldiers assigned to Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Marine Commandant Gen. James Conway already was creating the framework for a wounded warrior regiment. Marine Col. Gregory Boyle took command of the regiment at the Quantico VA headquarters 1 APR. The regiment will have a battalion at Camp Pendleton CA and one at Camp Lejeune NC locations where facilities already are in operation. Boyle said, “The regiment will provide unity and continuity of command, with one commander responsible for meeting the needs of the wounded. The unit will help patients with evaluation boards and insurance claims as well as track them through the administrative bureaucracy of their recovery. It also will help them transition from the military health system to that of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and will follow up with them throughout the country”. [Source: Armed Forces News Issue 13 Apr 07 ++]


GREAT POND RECREATIONAL FACILITY: THE Great Pond Outdoor Adventure Center is a four season recreational facility located 140 miles Northeast of NAS Brunswick in Great Pond, Maine. This 375 acre reservation boasts excellent fishing, hiking, canoe & kayaking as well as magnificent scenic vistas. It is available for use by Active, National Guard, Reservists, Retired, 100% DAV, and DoD Civilians. This pristine site offers many opportunities to explore the Maine woods via canoe or mountain bike. The facility offers:
• Wilderness campsites at $10/night year round.
• 18-site campground with water and electric hookups for campers. No sewer hookup at RV sites.
• Five cabins that range from $70/night to $540/week depending on size. They come equipped with a kitchen, bathroom w/shower, two bedrooms, and a loft. Some cabins have a sleeper sofa or the staff will roll in a couple of beds to accommodate extra guests.
• Bigelow Lodge from $90/night up to $750/week. Rooms include a kitchen, bathroom w/shower, two bedrooms, a loft, and two pullout couches for up to 12 guests.
• Two Yurts (a strong weather proof tent that can be used year round). One Yurt ($25/night $180/week) is located on Great Pond while the other is only accessible by boat on King’s Pond.
• Pets on a leash are allowed at Great Pond with a $5/day or $30 per week charge payable upon registration.
• Recreational Hall offering movies and games with a large stone fireplace that is used nightly by guests.
• Sailboats, kayaks, motorboats, and canoes are available for rent along with skiing and camping equipment, bed linen and towels.
• A small on site store that sells the bare essentials including bug spray, ice, wood, snacks, etc.

The nearest town is an hour’s drive (Bangor) and clear cellophane reception is only available in the middle of the pond. Visors may want to travel south to explore Acadia National Park or visit Canada, 70 miles east on route 9. Reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance at (207) 584-2000, greatpondoac@rivah.net , or via mail to Great Pond Outdoor Recreation Center, 9 Dow Pines Road, Great Pond, ME 04408. A 50% deposit is required. When booking weekends you must book for both Friday and Saturday. For additional info refer to www.mwr.navy.mil/mwrprgms/cabins/great_ ... ure_ME.pdf. [Source: www.militarycampgrounds.us Apr 07 ++]


TRICARE ANENCEPHALY ABORTION: Congress has ruled that no federal funds should be used to pay for an abortion except where the life of the mother is at stake. This issue was put ot the test when a Navy family requested Tricare to pay for their abortion. The wife was pregnant with an anencephalic child. whose probability of surviving or of ever being conscious was zero. Anencephaly is the absence of all or a significant part of the fetal brain. It is untreatable and lethal. If a baby is not dead at birth, it might last a few days before succumbing. Tricare refused to pay the $3000 the abortion would cost in accordance with the ruling of congress. The family sued, and a federal court ordered Tricare to pay, and the abortion went forward. Subsequently, the Justice Department sued the family to recover the $3000. A panel of the Ninth Circuit ruled that, under a 1980 Supreme Court precedent upholding the Hyde Amendment -- a parallel provision to the one in question, but applying to Medicaid recipients rather than to military families -- the law was valid and the government didn't have to pay for the abortion. The court wrote that although it, and surely all humankind, feels great sympathy for any parent faced with the truly horrifying diagnosis of anencephaly, it found that the law was clear. Consequently, the family was ordered to pay the money back. [Source: http://pharyngula.org/index/weblog/comm ... moralizers Aug 05 ++]


TRICARE SUPPLEMENTAL INSURANCE UPDATE 01: One of the first things on a new retiree’s checklist after leaving active duty is health care. If a second career is going to be undertaken most likely your employer will have some type of a health care plan. If you decide to use it Tricare will become a second payer to it. You should also consider out of pocket expense incurred for medical care outside the military system. If you decide to stick with Tricare you are subject to its copays and deductibles up to $3000 annual catastrophic cap limit per family. Private employers and some state governments are weighing the cost of providing optional Tricare supplemental Insurance as a way to save on the expense of benefits with the employer picking up the cost of the policy. It is cheaper for the employer who could save money and provide additional benefits in other areas. Tricare supplemental policies are offered by most military associations and some private firms and are designed to reimburse you for your medical bills, copayments, and deductibles after Tricare pays the government’s share of the cost. In deciding whether or not to obtain a policy or to compare benefits in selecting one you should consider the following:

--- Must a deductible be met before the plan pays?
--- Is there a maximum limit on benefits?
--- Is there a pre-existing condition clause?
--- Is there a waiting period before the policy becomes effective?
--- Will the plan cover amounts beyond what Tricare allows?
--- Does the plan pay for services that are not covered by Tricare?
--- Does the plan specifically not cover certain conditions?
--- Must certain types of care be approved before treatment?
--- Is inpatient care covered?
--- Is there outpatient or long term coverage?
--- Will the plan pay the Tricare outpatient deductible?
--- Will the plan pay Tricare cost share under the Tricare diagnosis-related group payment system?
--- Will the plan pay Tricare Prime enrollment fees or copayments?
--- Does the plan offer reduced premiums or adjustments for participation in managed health care plans?
--- Does the plan convert to a Medicare supplement?
--- Is so, must it be in force for a certain period of time before conversion?
--- Does the plan cover care overseas?
--- What are the membership/association fees required to be eligible for the policy?
--- Can your premium payments be increased?
--- Does the plan offer rates based on military status (Active duty/Retired) or on an age scale?
--- Does coverage continue for surviving spouses at no charge?
--- What are the time limitations, if any, for filing a claim?
--- Are their higher rates for smokers or involvement in certain activities?
[Source: Navy Times Alex Keenan article 13 JUN 05 ++]


TRICHLOROETHYLENE (TCE) EXPOSURE: Trichloroethylene, or TCE, is found in toxic landfills and illegal dumps throughout the country. The EPA has reported that the colorless, sweet-smelling chemical has been identified as a major pollutant in 496 Superfund cleanup sites. Because of its solubility in water and its mobility in soil, TCE is the most frequently reported organic contaminant in groundwater. The chemical, which was once used as anesthesia, also is found in several household products, such as spot remover, rug cleaner and shoe polish. The EPA has set a maximum contaminant level for trichloroethylene in drinking water at 0.005 milligrams per liter (0.005 mg/L) or 5 parts of TCE per billion parts water. The EPA has also developed regulations for the handling and disposal of trichloroethylene. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set an exposure limit of 100 parts of trichloroethylene per million parts of air (100 ppm) for an 8-hour workday, 40-hour workweek. When TCE enters the environment it:
- Dissolves a little in water, but it can remain in ground water for a long time.
- Quickly evaporates from surface water, so it is commonly found as a vapor in the air.
- Evaporates less easily from the soil than from surface water. It may stick to particles and remain for a long time.
- May stick to particles in water, which will cause it to eventually settle to the bottom sediment.
- Does not build up significantly in plants and animals.

Exposure can occur by:
- Breathing air in and around the home which has been contaminated with trichloroethylene vapors. Most of the trichloroethylene used in the U.S. is released into the air from industrial or commercial degreasing operations.
- From shower water or household products such as spot removers and typewriter correction fluid.
- Drinking, swimming, or showering in water that has been contaminated with TCE.
- Contact with soil contaminated with trichloroethylene, such as near a hazardous waste site.
- Contact with the skin or breathing contaminated air while manufacturing trichloroethylene or using it at work to wash paint or grease from skin or equipment.

Exposure impact on humans:
- Breathing small amounts may cause headaches, lung irritation, dizziness, poor coordination, and difficulty concentrating.
- Breathing large amounts of TCE may cause impaired heart function, unconsciousness, and death. Breathing it for long periods may cause nerve, kidney, and liver damage.
- Drinking small amounts of TCE for long periods may cause liver and kidney damage, impaired immune system function, and impaired fetal development in pregnant women, although the extent of some of these effects is not yet clear.
- Drinking large amounts of TCE may cause nausea, liver damage, unconsciousness, impaired heart function, or death.
- Skin contact with TCE for short periods may cause skin rashes.

If you have recently been exposed to TCE, it can be detected in your breath, blood, or urine. The breath test, if it is performed soon after exposure, can tell if you have been exposed to even a small amount of TCE. Exposure to larger amounts is assessed by blood and urine tests, which can detect TCE and many of its breakdown products for up to a week after exposure. However, exposure to other similar chemicals can produce the same breakdown products, so their detection is not absolute proof of exposure to trichloroethylene. This test isn't available at most doctors' offices, but can be done at special laboratories that have the right equipment. For additional information on this and other contaminates refer to www.atsdr.cdc.gov. [Source: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry Apr 07 ++]


PHILIPPINE DEERS REGISTRATION UPDATE 02: Effective immediately the DEERS/RAPIDS ID Card workstation located at window 3 in the Social Security and Veteran s Affairs section at the U.S. Embassy Manila will be open on a first come, first served basis on Tuesdays and Thursdays. All questions should be directed to SPC Babcock @ 0920-911-8964 on TUE & THUR between the hours of 08-1700. Workstation hours of operation are as follows:
- MON-WED-FRI Closed
- TUE & THUR 08-1100 & 1400-1630.
- Closed on all weekends and U.S./Philippine federal holidays.

The following personnel are eligible for DOD ID Cards:
- Active duty members, retired members, and members of the Reserve components not on active duty in excess of 30 days.
- Retired Reserve members who have reached their 60th birthday.
- Family members of military sponsors on active duty for more than 30 consecutive days.
- Family members of retirees (with pay).
- Family members of Ready Reserve (Selected, Individual and Standby Reservists) Family members of Retired Reservists, who have qualified for retired pay at age 60, yet have not reached age 60.
- Un-remarried or unmarried former spouses previously enrolled in DEERS.
- Medal of Honor recipients and their eligible family members.
- One hundred percent disabled veterans and their family members. One hundred percent must result from one or more rated disabilities. Those who receive 100% as a result of unemployable status are not eligible.
- Former members having reached age 60 and in receipt of retired pay for non-regular service, and their family members.

Also eligible are survivors of the following:
- Active duty members.
- Retired with pay members.
- Reserve members on active or inactive duty.
- Retirement-eligible reservists who died prior to transfer to the Retired Reserve (Reservists who were still participating).
- Retired reserve members who qualify for pay at age 60 but die before reaching age 60.

As a general guideline, it is highly recommended the sponsor be present when renewing ID cards. If the sponsor cannot be present, have the sponsor go to their nearest DEERS/RAPIDS ID Card section and print out a DD Form 1172 for whatever dependents are having their ID cards renewed. The sponsor MUST be present when initially enrolling a dependent in DEERS. If not, the sponsor will have to enroll you in DEERS from whatever duty station he/she is currently serving or is closest and send you a DD Form 1172. Upon receipt you may come in to get an ID card. Bring at least three (3) forms of ID with you to the US Embassy as you will have to surrender two (2) of them to guard stations before coming to the Social Security section. If you do not meet any of the above requirements but believe you are entitled to benefits, do not hesitate to call. SPC Babcock will work with you in preparing an information packet and present it to a service project officer on your behalf. If they approve your case, you will receive all entitled benefits as well as an ID card. At no point will you be charged for anything inclusive of all ID cards, forms and assistance. If someone is trying to charge for something relating to DEERS/RAPIDS call 0920-911-8964 and advise Babcock of the details. [Source: JUSMAG SPC Babcock Apr 07 ++]


VA CLAIM FIXERS: The US Department of Veterans Affairs (USDVA) is receiving an increasingly number of claims for VA benefits from veterans or survivors who avail of the services of a “Claims Fixer”. VA often finds these claims contain fraudulent evidence that has been submitted by the Fixer. When it is suspected that a claim involves a Fixer it is investigated with a resultant delay in processing the claim. If it is determined that fraud was committed, the veteran’s right to VA benefits is forfeited. This is a lifetime forfeiture meaning the veteran and /or their dependents lose all rights to ever be considered for VA benefits for the rest of their lives. Claim Fixers have no connection within VA. If approached by someone claiming to have an “IN” with the VA, the VA office should be notified immediately. Claim Fixers cannot affect the outcome of your claim. They can only jeopardize your entitlement to VA benefits.

To protect yourself against Claim Fixers:
- Avoid them. Anyone charging a fee to assist you is a claims fixer.
- Do not sign any form unless it is completely filled out and all the information contained on the form is accurate. If possible, you should fill out the forms yourself.
- Do not sign any affidavits or statements unless they are accurate.
- Do not sign any statement in support of another person’s claim unless the information is accurate.
- Do not submit any medical evidence or doctor’s statements unless the information is factual.
- Do not allow any affidavits or statements to be submitted in support of your claim unless the information in the document is accurate.
- Do not pay someone the benefits you have earned in defense of your country. They have no right to those benefits.

If you have questions about VA benefits or services, contact the USDVA in your geographic area. The USDVA has representatives available to assist you with your claim. In the Philippines you may visit them at the US Embassy in Manila or call them at no charge on a PLDT line at 1-800-1888-5252. If you live in Metro Manila, you may dial 528-2500. You may also visit the website: https://iris.va.gov for more information. VA doe not charge for any service or assistance they provide [Source: USDVA Manila Director Jon Skelly Apr 07 ++]


NATIONAL PARK PASSPORTS UPDATE 01: The National Park Service is an participant in the new Interagency Pass Program which was created by the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act and authorized by Congress in DEC 04. Participating agencies include the National Park Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture - Forest Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management and Bureau of Reclamation. The pass series, referred to collectively as the America the Beautiful Pass, went sale 1 JAN 07. It replaces the former Golden Age, Golden Access, and Golden Eagle pass. The new series consist of the following:

- America the Beautiful Annual Pass: This pass is available to the general public at a cost of $80. It provides access to, and use of, Federal recreation sites that charge an Entrance or Standard Amenity Fee for a year, beginning from the date of sale. The pass admits the pass holder/s and passengers in a non-commercial vehicle at per vehicle fee areas and pass holder + 3 adults, not to exceed 4 adults, at per person fee areas. (children under 16 are admitted free) The pass can be obtained in person at the park, by calling 1(888) ASK USGS, Ext. 1, or via the Internet at http://store.usgs.gov/pass.
- America the Beautiful Senior Pass: This is a lifetime pass for U.S. citizens or permanent residents age 62 or over at a cost of $10. The pass provides access to, and use of, Federal recreation sites that charge an Entrance or Standard Amenity. The pass admits the pass holder and passengers in a non-commercial vehicle at per vehicle fee areas and pass holder + 3 adults, not to exceed 4 adults, at per person fee areas (children under 16 are admitted free). The pass can only be obtained in person at the park. The Senior Pass provides a 50% discount on some Expanded Amenity Fees charged for facilities and services such as camping, swimming, boat launch, and specialized interpretive services. In some cases where Expanded Amenity Fees are charged, only the pass holder will be given the 50% price reduction. The pass is non-transferable and generally does not cover or reduce special recreation permit fees or fees charged by concessionaires.
- America the Beautiful Access Pass: This is a lifetime pass for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities at no charge. Documentation is required to obtain the pass. Acceptable documentation includes: statement by a licensed physician; document issued by a Federal agency such as the Veteran’s Administration, Social Security Disability Income or Supplemental Security Income; or document issued by a State agency such as a vocational rehabilitation agency. The pass provides access to, and use of, Federal recreation sites that charge an Entrance or Standard Amenity. The pass admits the pass holder and passengers in a non-commercial vehicle at per vehicle fee areas and pass holder + 3 adults, not to exceed 4 adults, at per person fee areas (children under 16 are admitted free). The pass can only be obtained in person at the park. The Access Pass provides a 50% discount on some Expanded Amenity Fees charged for facilities and services such as camping, swimming, boat launching, and specialized interpretive services. In some cases where Expanded Amenity Fees are charged, only the pass holder will be given the 50% price reduction. The pass is non-transferable and generally does not cover or reduce special recreation permit fees or fees charged by concessionaires.
- America the Beautiful Volunteer Pass: This pass at no charge is for volunteers acquiring 500 service hours on a cumulative basis. It provides access to, and use of, Federal recreation sites that charge an Entrance or Standard Amenity Fee for a year, beginning from the date of award. The pass admits the pass holder and passengers in a non-commercial vehicle at per vehicle fee areas and pass holder + 3 adults, not to exceed 4 adults, at per person fee areas (children under 16 are admitted free).

Existing Golden series passes will no longer be sold or issued, but they will continue to be honored for as long as they are valid. The Forest Service, National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, and Bureau of Reclamation will honor all three passes at sites where Entrance or Standard Amenity Fees are charged. In addition, the Corps of Engineers and Tennessee Valley Authority may honor the Senior and Access Passes. Passes cannot be replaced if lost or stolen; a new pass must be purchased. One goal of the new pass program is to install technology at each site that allows for tracking and replacements. Tattered and worn passes can be exchanged for a new one. Passes from previous pass programs cannot be exchanged or upgraded for the new passes. Bicycles are handled differently within the five agencies. Sometimes they are charged as a per person or walk-up fee; other times they are discounted at vehicle fee sites; while some sites allow them in at no charge. Because fees and rules vary regarding bicycles across the agencies and sites across the country, you should contact your site of choice directly for their regulation. For additional info refer to www.nps.gov/fees_passes.htm. [Source: www.nps.gov Apr 07 ++]

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[boardman]

MEDICARE SCAMS UPDATE 01: Aggressive insurance salesmen offering alternative Medicare policies have persuaded hundreds of older people across North Carolina to replace their traditional coverage with private insurance that may cost more and do less. Reports suggested the problem had not become widespread, but state regulators said 28 MAR they are dealing with complaints in Wake, Guilford, Davidson, Robeson, Pitt and other counties. Poor agent training and misinformation bears some of the blame, but greed may also be at play, said Carla Obiol, deputy commissioner of the state Seniors' Health Insurance Information Program, known as SHIIP. Obiol said the private Medicare policies tend to pay agents hefty commissions. North Carolina's senior consumer fraud task force sent out a statewide trade practices alert about aggressive marketing to older people, some with dementia. SHIIP is also looking into several cases in which residents of rest homes and low-income housing were targeted, but would not release details. State regulators can take action against agents who are registered to work in North Carolina. But only the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services can restore traditional Medicare to people who have bought policies that don't benefit them, Obiol said. [Source: McClatchy Newspapers Thomas Goldsmith article 30 Mar 07 ++]


PREMIUM CONVERSION UPDATE 01: Rep. Tom Davis (R-VA) and Sen. John Warner (R-VA) are once again championing the military and federal civilian retirees' right to tax-exemption for premiums paid for federal health and dental plans (including Tricare Prime enrollment fees and Tricare supplement plans). They have reintroduced legislation (H.R. 1110 and S. 773, respectively) that would amend the Internal Revenue Code to allow that. Currently, active federal workers are able to pay their health insurance premiums with pre-tax dollars. That has been authorized for Executive Branch workers since 2000, and for Legislative Branch and Judiciary employees since 2001. H.R. 1110 and S. 773 would extend the same benefit to retired federal civilian and military members. Rising health care costs affect all federal employees, civilian or uniformed, active or retired, and all have earned and deserve the same benefit.
While the news bills are encouraging to correct this inequity, their cost has stymied action in Congress so far. Similar legislation was introduced in the three previous Congresses, but was not approved by the House Ways and Means Committee and Senate Finance Committee, which have jurisdiction over tax issues. Members of the military community can urge their senators and representative to cosponsor these bills by sending them a message expressing their desire to see this legislation pass. At http://capwiz.com/moaa/issues/alert/?al ... 91&type=CO can be found a suggested format and/or provide a means for automatic transmission of your message. [Source: MOAA Leg Up 6 Apr 07 ++]


CAFFEINE: After years of being viewed with suspicion, caffeine has pulled a scientific switcheroo. Besides helping students pull all-nighters and weekend warriors jumpstart their jump shots, there's now evidence that it defends against diabetes, Parkinson's, asthma symptoms, post-workout soreness, and even hunger pangs. However, it's not totally benign. The RealAge experts [www.realage.com] advise limiting yourself to about 250 mg a day (the average cup of coffee has about 100 mg) to avoid jitters and a possible boost in blood pressure. Caffeine can delay your sleep and cause you to wake up during the night. Avoid caffeinated drinks and foods (coffee, tea, cola, chocolate) after noon. You may want to try avoiding caffeine entirely and see if your sleep improves. Few labels list caffeine content, so it's hard to tell how much is in what. The following may be helpful:

Diet Coke - Everybody's default diet drink. Caffeine 45 mg, Calories 0, Other stuff: A lot of flavorings and colorings, not much else.
Water Joe - Plain H2O with a jolt. Caffeine 60 mg 16.9-ounce bottle, Calories 0, Other stuff: Artesian water and caffeine. No additives, no carbonation.
Red Bull - The energy drink that started it all. Caffeine 80 mg per 8-ounce can, Calories 110, Other stuff: Has taurine, a "detox" amino acid; B vitamins; and lots of sugar.
Tab Energy - A revved-up version of old Tab cola. Caffeine 95 mg per 10.5-ounce can, Calories 5, Other stuff: Sweet and pink, it's spiked with ginseng and guarana, a mild caffeine-like stimulant.
Enviga - Controversial new green tea drink. Caffeine 100 mg per 12-ounce can, Calories 5,
Other stuff: Laced with 200 mg of calcium and green tea antioxidants but in trouble for claiming that it makes the body burn up extra Calories.
Rocket Chocolates - Candy with more zip than a cup of coffee. Caffeine 150 mg per piece, Calories 70, Other stuff: Comes in trendy flavors like mocha latte; individually wrapped so you can carry in a pocket.
Fusion Energy - 7/Eleven's "functional" brew. Caffeine 250 mg per 12-ounce cup, Calories 0, Other stuff: Freshly-ground coffee brewed with an alertness-boosting blend of guarana, and yerba mate.
Starbucks - Coffee, just coffee. Caffeine 280 or so per 12-ounce cup, Calories 0, Other stuff: Starbucks coffee averages twice the caffeine of a regular 8-ounce cup of coffee, but the hit can vary wildly-in one study, by 200 mg on different days.
Spike Shooter - Heavy-hitter energy drink. Caffeine 300 mg per 8.4-ounce can, Calories 0, Other stuff: Spiked with tyrosine, yohimbine, and a huge dose of vitamin B12; label warns you not to drink more than one a day.
[Source: Yahoo Apr 07]


VA RETRO PAY PROJECT UPDATE 07: There are no plans for DFAS to publish a list of retirees who are eligible for The Disabled Military Retired Retroactive Pay Program (commonly called VA Retro). Retirees who are eligible should receive notices on a rolling basis. The retroactive payments mainly affect retired members with 20+ years of service who have retroactive or increased VA disability awards since 2004. Depending on the difficulty of the individual case (some complicated accounts are being audited by hand), the payment processing will run through the end of 2007. DFAS has said that while they continue to make progress on paying VA Retro, they continue to get thousands of new cases each month. [Source: MOAA Leg Up 6 Apr 07 ++]


AAFES MATCH IT PROGRAM: In addition to competitively low prices and sales tax free purchases, the Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) has recently improved their “We’ll Match It!” price matching program. Now authorized shoppers who find a lower price at a “warehouse club” store can obtain the same price at their local PX or BX. If the difference is less than $10 the cashier is authorized to match the price on the spot. If the difference exceeds $10 the competitor’s ad must accompany the request. The “We’ll Match It!” policy applies to all AAFES retail stores including main stores, Shoppettes, Class Six, Car Care and troop stores. This is an enhancement to the AAFES policy that matches local competitor’s prices on identical items. In addition, AAFES offers a thirty day price guarantee on any item originally purchased from AAFES and subsequently sold at a lower price by AAFES or another local competitor. The program does have some exceptions, AAFES does not price match website or catalog prices. Special offers, promotions, free-with-purchase offers, limited quantity offers, bundled promotions, special financing, “gimmick” promotions, special order automotive parts, gasoline, automotive labor/ service, double and triple coupons, clearance items, flat percentage off items and vending items are excluded. This program is only available in CONUS locations. Complete details concerning the price matching program are available online at aafes.com. Purchases from the Exchange generate funds for MWR programs. In the past 10 years, AAFES contributed more than $2.4 billion to Army, Air Force, Marine Corps and Navy MWR programs. These funds are used in support of Youth Services, Armed Forces Recreation Centers, post functions and other quality of life initiatives enjoyed by military families on installations across the globe. [Source: http://www.aafes.com/pa/news/07news/07-013.htm Feb 07]


ARMY SURVIVOR’S CALL CENTER (ALTFCM): The Army Families First Casualty Call Center (FFCCC), which assists families of fallen Soldiers, recently underwent several changes to better serve the those who seek support in the months and years following the loss of a loved one. These upgrades include a new interactive web site and a new name for the organization. Now known as the Long Term Family Case Management (LTFCM), this name change more accurately reflects how LTFCM assists families. Putting “families first” continues to be the number one priority in providing long-term support to families of fallen Soldiers by offering assistance and connecting survivors to services and programs 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Family members can access the new web site by visiting https://www.hrc.army.mil/site/active/ta ... /index.htm. The site includes enhanced features with detailed information on survivors’ benefits, Soldier services, reports, and support programs. It also features interactive tools to determine whether a family is eligible to apply for the Death Gratuity or retroactive Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) benefits. Survivor’s can also join the ALTFCM email list to receive periodic updates on available benefits and service. As a central point of contact in the months and years following a loss, LTFCM support coordinators continue to aid survivors with retroactive death benefits, entitlements like education and counseling (financial and emotional), and posthumous awards and citations for fallen service members. If you have further questions email ALTFCM@conus.army.mil or call 1(866)272-5841 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. [Source: U.S. Army Long Term Family Case Management msg. 4 Apr 07 ++]


TRICARE EOBs UPDATE 01: Tricare has issued a letter reversing the policy on TRICARE for Life Explanation of Benefits (EOB). It reads, “We appreciate the comments received from our customers regarding the April 1 change to eliminate the TFL Explanation of Benefits when the patient liability is zero. We have listened to our customers and will not be making the change at this time. You will continue to receive the TFL Explanation of Benefits as you have in the past. If you have registered on TRICARE4u.com to receive an email that a claim has processed, you will continue to receive that notification. However, you will also continue to receive the TFL Explanation of Benefits through the mail.
If you do not wish to receive notification through email, you can disenroll by updating your TRICARE4u profile page. If you have not registered on TRICARE4u.com giving you the ability to receive an email notification and an electronic TFL Explanation of Benefits, the process is very easy. Simply log onto www.TRICARE4u.com and click on “Register as a Beneficiary/Sponsor”. If you have questions about the registration process, please contact us toll-free at 1-866-773-0404. For those requiring a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) please contact us toll-free at 1-866-773-0405.” [Source: NAUS Weekly Update for 6 Apr 07 ++]


NAVY PERSONAL DATA BREACH UPDATE 03: Three password protected laptop computers are missing from the Navy College Office at Naval Station San Diego. While the Navy College Office does not have complete information about information that was on the laptops, it could include Sailors’ names, rates and ratings, social security numbers, and college course information. This potential compromise could impact Sailors and former Sailors home ported on San Diego-based ships from JAN 03 to OCT 05 and who were enrolled in the Navy College Program for Afloat College Education. The Naval Criminal Investigative Service is investigating the incident as a possible theft, working with the San Diego police department to recover the computers. Individuals who believe they may be affected may contact the Navy Personnel Command Customer Service Center at 1(866) 827-5672) or via email at CSCMailbox@navy.mil. Because of continued failure by the government in protecting veteran’s personal data, veterans are my want to seek personal protection against identity theft. Companies that offer such protection for a fee can be located on the internet by inserting “Identity theft Insurance” into their search engine. [Source: Armed Forces News Issue 6 Apr 07 ++]


COMBAT ZONE DEATH TAX REPORTING: Publication 3 - Armed Forces’ Tax Guide for use in preparing 2006 returns covers special tax situations of active members of the US Armed Forces. Members serving in an area designated or treated as a combat zone are granted special tax benefits. In the unfortunate event a member of the U. S. Armed Forces dies while in active service in a combat zone or from wounds, disease, or other injury received in a combat zone, the decedent’s income tax liability is forgiven for the tax year in which death occurred and for any earlier tax year ending on or after the first day the member served in a combat zone in active service. Any forgiven tax liability that has already been paid will be refunded, and any unpaid tax liability at the date of death will be forgiven. The death gratuity paid to a spouse or a family member of the US Armed Forces who died after 10 SEP 01, is $100,000. The full amount is nontaxable.

To obtain a copy of Pub 3 for use in preparing 2006 returns, go to the IRS web site www.irs.gov to print a copy. Click on Forms and Publications on the left. Then go to Download forms and publications by clicking on Publication Number. Scroll down to select Publication 3, click on Retrieve Selected Files. When mailing a tax return for a service member killed in action address it as follows: Internal Revenue Service Accounts Management Office 310 Lowell Street Stop 661, Andover MA 01812. Write “Iraqi Freedom or Enduring Freedom—K.I.A.” on top of the return in red. If you would like further information regarding this article contact Judith Powers, National Killed in Terrorist Action/Killed in Action (KITA/KIA) Program Manager, at (978) 474-5408/5953F between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:30 PM EDT or via email Kathleen.M.LaPlume@irs.gov. [Source: Armed Forces News Issue 6 Apr 07 ++]


VA PERSONAL DATA: VA Form 10-10EZR, Health Benefits Renewal, is for your use to update the information you have on file at the VA. This form enables you to update or report changes to your address, phone number, name, health insurance and financial information when these changes occur. If you are not charged copay for medications or your health care or are charged a reduced inpatient copay you should update and report your financial information to VA each year to prevent your status from lapsing. VA will remind you when it is time to renew the information. If you are not charged medication copay because you have low income, you should also update your financial information to VA each year to have your ability to pay copay reassessed. If you want to check on this you can access a table of Financial Income Thresholds for VA Health Care Benefits at www.va.gov/healtheligibility/Library/pu ... hresholds/

It is not necessary to wait for the annual renewal period to provide VA your updated information. You may update your information whenever your financial or personal information changes. Simply complete VA Form 10-10EZR to provide your updated information. A PDF version of the form can be completed and downloaded at www.va.gov/vaforms/medical/pdf/vha-10-10ezr-fill.pdf. You will need to complete the form and mail it to your local facility for processing. Be sure to sign and date the form. If the form is not signed and dated properly, VA will return it to you for completion. If it’s been a while since your information was updated, when VA contacts you to remind you of your upcoming scheduled appointment they may question you on the currency of the information they have on file. [Source: www.va.gov/healtheligibility/ Apr 07 ++]


AIR FORCE EMAIL FOR LIFE: Air Force Communications Agency officials are launching an initiative called E-Mail for Life, or E4L. The first step in this multiple-phase consolidation effort is to give everyone an e-mail address with a universal extension of @us.af.mil, and every Air Force user will keep that address for as long as they are associated with the Air Force. For those working in joint billets or who are currently working at other .mil or .gov sites, an E4L address will be issued as well. Users will receive an e-mail in APR 07 notifying them that their new E4L account has been issued. The e-mail will explain how people can access an online self-service portal page, and how they'll be able to update their E4L information once fully operational. For most people, updating their personal information will automatically adjust as they move from base to base, but for cases where it can't, the self-service portal page can be used to forward the e-mails accordingly. The change for the most part will be transparent to people who use the Global Address List (GAL) since their name, rank and unit designations will still show.

While this new address will be active when they receive the notification e-mail, it will not affect their current e-mail address, and in fact, any items sent to the E4L address will automatically be forwarded to the current address. Also, the E4L address will not show up on the GAL until mid-summer when the initiative reaches full operating capability. The actual e-mail address will appear as the person's firstname.lastname, such as: john.smith@us.af.mil. The Air Force will issue users with the same name a numerical identifier based on seniority. For instance, if two people have the name John Smith, then the most senior person as of January 2007 will be assigned the address john.smith@us.af.mil, and lower ranking individuals named John Smith will be assigned a numerical identifier such as john.smith.2@us.af.mil, and so on. Another address identifier will be given for contractors who will have a .ctr after their names, such as john.smith.3.ctr@us.af.mil. [Source: Air Force Communications Agency Karen Petitt article 23 Mar 07 ++]


SPACE "A" TRAVEL POLICY: Changes are on the way for the thousands of servicemembers, families and military retirees who use space-available travel in and out of Europe. New eligibility standards, the elimination of one route and changes to several others are all scheduled in the next seven months, according to the Air Mobility Command, which manages the Air Force’s massive cargo and passenger airlift operations. Thanks to demand, a regulation change in June should make it easier for families to travel without their military sponsors. Currently, families are allowed to use available seats to travel on the planes, but generally need to do so with the military member present. Some also have been able to travel at a lower priority and others based in Europe were able to do so under a waiver requested by the U.S. European Command. That waiver has come under dispute, though. A change to DOD regulations is coming, though, that will allow eligible military dependents to travel as long as they have a letter from the servicemember approving it.

So far this year more than 11,000 passengers have traveled Space-A in, out or through Europe. In all of 2006, that number was around 31,000. Just where passengers will be able to travel changes somewhat beginning 1 OCT. The Patriot Express currently operates eight weekly routes that pass through Europe. All but one of them fly on to countries that the military refers to as “Southwest Asia” before returning back through Europe to the States. That one other route which originates in Baltimore, with stops at Lajes Field in the Azores and Aviano Air Base in Italy is disappearing at the beginning of the new fiscal year. However, Aviano has been added to a route that connects Baltimore with Ramstein and Al Udeid, Qatar. Also, Lajes has been added to three other routes and will join Ramstein as the most visited spot in Europe. Stops in Rota, Spain, and Souda Bay, Crete, have been eliminated. In an e-mail, Tony Joyner, an AMC public affairs officer, said Aviano, Lajes, Sigonella, Naples, Souda Bay and Rota all were scheduled to lose stops in fiscal 2008. But a survey of use by duty passengers convinced the command to retain most of those stops.

The Patriot Express’ main mission is ferrying those duty passengers. Space-A travel is limited to seats left after duty passengers have boarded and isn’t offered to Turkey or any of the forward-deployed locations in combat zones. The Patriot Express uses commercial jets leased by the Department of Defense. Space-A travel also is available on some military cargo planes, but such routes aren’t scheduled with the same regularity. For more information on Space-A travel, visit the AMC Web site at www.amc.af.mil. Click on “Questions” then click on “Space Available Travel” to download a 14-page document that contains general information, eligibility rules and contacts.

In late March, Secretary of Defense Gates approved a new policy for stateside Space-A travel. It opens seats on ANY DoD aircraft in CONUS supporting DoD senior officials travel to active duty members who have been injured in a combat zone and are receiving treatment. If traveling TDY the individual will be manifested as Space Required and if in a leave status will have priority over all other space-a passengers. The policy includes immediate family members traveling with the Wounded Warriors. [Source: Stars & Stripes Kent Harris article 26 Mar 07 ++]


PTSD UPDATE 12: California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has signed into law the country's first state alternative sentencing program in the nation for war on terror veterans suffering from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The new law provides judges with the option of alternative sentencing for Veterans diagnosed with PTSD, substance abuse or other psychological problems stemming from a combat tour. The convicted Veteran may be placed on probation and enter a voluntary treatment program at the federal, state or private nonprofit level. More information about the bill refer to www.leginfo.ca.gov. To find more information and resources for PTSD, refer to http://www.military.com/benefits/resour ... d-overview. [Source: Military.com 2 Apr 07 ++]


VET JOB WEBSITE: Active or former veterans and their spouses looking for day work or full time employment will be interested in checking out www.hirepatriots.com. Here you can check out what is available nationwide by just punching in your current locality or the locality you would like to work in. Most of the jobs pay $10 or more an hour. There is no charge for job searches by military members and their spouses. Nor is there any limitation on the number of times you can use the site. Employers and individuals offering jobs to veterans can also post them at this site at no charge. HirePatriots is available to all military personnel regardless of their location. However, most of the current jobs are based in San Diego and Orange County California.

The site’s concept began in FEB 05 as a website to serve the Marines at Camp Pendleton CA. The name of that site was HireMarines.com. It was a success from the start and grew from 500 visitors in its first month to 15,000 visitors by its third month. The media picked up the story and features done for the local network news were shown across the country by their affiliates. As a result the site started receiving E-mails from military personnel from bases across the country who wanted to be included. In just six months from the site's inauguration, HireMarines.com expanded to include every military branch and base in the nation and changed its name to HirePatriots.com. The founders of the site Mark and Tori Baird’s goal is for every citizen and business to offer their chores and jobs to a troop or their spouse first. They want to reinvigorate Americans’ love for country and their appreciation and respect for this nation’s troops and their families. Anyone having questions regarding the site’s services should contact the Baird’s at 4519 Cove Drive, Ste.7, Carlsbad CA 92008 Tel: (760) 730-3734 Fax: (866) 541-9062 or email HirePatriots@yahoo.com. [Source: HireMarines.com Apr 07 ++]


WW1 VET SEARCH UPDATE 02: In 1916, Charlotte L. Winters called on the secretary of the Navy and asked why women weren’t allowed to enlist. A year later, she had begun her military career. On 27 MAR Mrs. Winters - the nation’s oldest female military veteran and last female World War I veteran - died in her sleep at the Fahrney-Keedy life care community in Boonsboro MD. She was 109. Since the beginning of 2007, six World War I veterans have died. Lloyd Brown, the last known surviving World War I Navy veteran, died on 2 APR in Charlotte Hall MD. He was 105. His death, at the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home, was confirmed by his family and the United States Naval District in Washington. With the number of known living American veterans of World War I now standing at four, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking public assistance in determining whether others are still alive. VA usually knows about the identity and location of veterans only after they come to the Department for benefits. None of the four known surviving World War I veterans has been on the VA benefits rolls. The Secretary asks members of the general public who know of a surviving World War I veteran to contact VA. To qualify as a World War I veteran, someone must have been on active duty between April 6, 1917 and 11 NOV 18. VA is also looking for surviving Americans who served in the armed forces of allied nations. Information about survivors can be e-mailed to ww1@va.gov; faxed to 202-273-6702, or mailed to the Office of Public Affairs, Department of Veterans Affairs (80), 810 Vermont Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20420. About 4.7 million men and women served in the U.S. armed forces during World War I. About 53,000 died in combat, with another 204,000 wounded. The four known surviving World War I veterans are John Babcock, 102, from Puget Sound, Wash.; Frank Buckles, 106, Charles Town, W.Va.; Russell Coffey, 108, North Baltimore, Ohio; and Harry Landis, 107, Sun City Center, Fla. Babcock is an American who served in the Canadian Army. The other three survivors were in the U.S. Army. [Source: VA News Release 4 Apr 07 ++]


DEPLETED URANIUM (DU) UPDATE 02: The death toll from the highly toxic weapons component known as depleted uranium (DU) has reached unanticipated numbers. Of the 580,400 soldiers who served in Gulf War I 11,000 have died of causes that could be attributed to DU as of OCT 06. By the year 2000, there were 325,000 veterans or 56% on permanent medical disability. The disability rate for veterans of the world wars of the last century was only 5%, rising to 10% in Vietnam. Terry Johnson, public affairs specialist at the VA, reported that veterans of both Persian Gulf wars now on disability total 518,739. In an article published by Global Research Arthur Bernklau, executive director of Veterans for Constitutional Law in New York, reported that the source of the malady that thousands of our military have suffered and died from was identified as early as 2000 and there is no longer any need for further guessing on the issue. In 2000 a special report published by eminent scientist Leuren Moret named depleted uranium (DU) as the definitive cause of ‘Gulf War Syndrome’. According to Bernklau the long-term effect of DU is a virtual death sentence.

DU is a radioactive by-product of uranium enrichment used to coat ammunition such as tank shells and "bunker busting" missiles because its density makes it ideal for piercing armor. In the manufacture of tank and bunker busting shells/missiles depleted uranium, non-depleted uranium, titanium and tungsten all meet the dense metal criteria. However, titanium and tungsten are not normally used as they are more expensive than depleted uranium which is in abundance. The world uranium industry has over one million tons of depleted uranium to dispose of. Tungsten is difficult to manufacture because it is 1.75 times harder than uranium and has a much higher melting point at 3422 degrees Celsius than depleted uranium at1132 degrees Celsius. Moreover, depleted uranium is preferred because it burns fiercely in air making it effective as an incendiary device. Uranium can be engineered to be "self-sharpening" so that when it hits a target, it retains its punching point as material erodes off the warhead. Titanium and tungsten will not do this. Uranium’s molecular structure can re-formed, using metallurgical and "nano-technologies" to deliver a selected range of ballistic features, including kinetic, thermal, pyrophoric, liquid metal and high-pressure/high-heat, plasma effects. Uranium (whether NDU or DU) offers unique structural features and the chemistry best suited for the defeat of deep, bunkerized targets, multiple types of targets in area denial munitions, and penetrating composite ceramic and metal armored targets.

Thousands of DU shells and bombs have been used in Yugoslavia, Afghanistan, the 1990-91 Gulf war, and the ongoing conflict in Iraq. Scientists say even a tiny particle of DU can have disastrous results once ingested, including various cancers and degenerative diseases, paralysis, birth deformities and death. DU has a half-life of 4.5 billion years, meaning it takes that long for just half of its atoms to decay. The radiation released through DU use in conflicts is believed to be more than ten times the amount dispersed by atmospheric testing. If you served in these conflicts and are experiencing any of the symptoms of ingesting DU you should consider submitting a disability claim to the VA and be evaluated.

Note: The Centre for Research on Globalization (CRG) is an independent research and media group of writers, scholars and activists. It is a registered non profit organization in the province of Quebec, Canada. The Global Research webpage at www.globalresearch.ca based in Montreal publishes news articles, commentary, background research and analysis on a broad range of issues, focusing on social, economic, strategic, geopolitical and environmental processes. [Source: American Free Press James Tucker article 29 Oct 06 ++]


VA HOSPITAL CARE UPDATE 01: The typical hospital patient is given the wrong medication or the wrong dose at least once a day, according to the Institute of Medicine, a research organization that advises Congress. The good news is that these mistakes are less likely to happen at a hospital run by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Recent news accounts about the shameful conditions at Walter Reed Army Medical Center - a hospital unaffiliated with the Department of Veterans Affairs - might lead you to believe that VA hospitals are a national embarrassment. That may have been true at one time. But VA hospitals have undergone a remarkable turnaround in the last decade and, on average, earn higher marks for patient safety and quality of care than most other hospitals in the United States. For example, the VA system is well ahead of most hospitals in protecting patients from medication errors. The VA has adopted a system in which a nurse scans a barcode printed on the patient’s bracelet, indicating the name and dose of each medication the patient should be getting. The nurse then scans the pre-packaged medication to make sure it’s a match.

Another new technology - computer physician order entry (or CPOE) - is designed to stop doctors from prescribing the wrong medication. With CPOE, a doctor enters the prescription at a computer terminal instead of scribbling it on a pad. The computer identifies incorrect doses or a medication that conflicts with other meds the patient is taking. If the computer sounds an alarm, the physician has to override it. In Australia, Britain, New Zealand and much of Western Europe, hospitals have adopted CPOE, but most U.S. hospitals have resisted. An exception is the VA, which has installed CPOE nationwide. The VA has also pushed ahead of most hospitals in the U.S. by investing in electronic medical records, allowing a patient’s medical history to be accessed in a few seconds. The VA database is a resource for medical researchers and the envy of the private sector. Dr. James Bagian, director of the National Center for Patient Safety at the Department of Veterans Affairs, points out that the VA is a leader in safety initiatives ranging from preventing injuries related to falls to fighting one of the most feared, drug-resistant hospital infections, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. In 2002, the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System launched a pilot program that reduced such infections a stunning 85% by enforcing meticulous hand hygiene, patient screening and precautions against spreading bacteria on gloves, clothing, wheelchairs and stethoscopes.
The VA is instituting the same approach nationwide.

Patients in VA hospitals are also more likely to receive optimal care than patients in other hospitals. In the late 1990s, the VA re-engineered its healthcare system, using information technology to track and measure the care each patient is given. The result is significantly higher compliance with best practices. According to a 2003 study in the New England Journal of Medicine, patients in VA hospitals received better care in 12 out of 13 measures compared to Medicare-eligible patients in nongovernment hospitals. Measures included care for diabetes, depression and congestive heart failure and cancer screenings. The American Customer Service Satisfaction Index (based at the University of Michigan) shows that patients in VA hospitals are more satisfied with their care (84% vs. 74%) than patients in private-sector hospitals. Not all 1,400 hospitals operated by the Department of Veterans Affairs are models of excellence. A recent internal VA report acknowledged that some hospitals need repair because of mold, leaky roofs or defective plumbing. Recent studies have revealed substandard conditions at three VA hospitals around the country. But the news about Walter Reed should not obscure the truth about the standard of care for most veterans. Facility shortcomings aside, the VA delivers better care than most hospitals. [Source: Los Angeles Times Betsy McCaughey article 1 Apr 07 ++]


CIGARETTE FIRE-SAFE LAW: New Hampshire is joining four other states in requiring that all cigarettes sold within its borders extinguish themselves if left to burn. About 800 people are killed annually in the United States by fires started by unattended cigarettes. Such fires typically occur when a smoker falls asleep while smoking or drops a lit cigarette into an upholstered chair, where it can smolder for hours before causing a fire. In 2004, New York became the first state to require unattended cigarettes to be self-extinguishing. A similar Vermont law took effect this year. A California law will take effect next year, an Illinois law is scheduled to start in 2008, and New Hampshire’s law will take effect on 1 OCT 07. Cigarette manufacturers argue there should be a single, nationwide standard for fire-safe cigarettes rather than various state regulations, but Congress has not passed legislation. The New Hampshire law would automatically be repealed if federal standards are enacted. Experts at the Harvard School of Public Health have prepared an investigative report which concludes that all cigarettes can and should be self-extinguishing. [Albert HR and others. “Fire Safer” Cigarettes: The Effect of the New York State Cigarette Fire Safety Standard on Ignition Propensity, Smoke Toxicity and the Consumer Market. January 2005" www.hsph.harvard.edu/press/releases/cig ... rettes.pdf . A Canadian law has been in effect since 1 OCT 05. [Source: Consumer Health Digest 6 Jun 06]


TRICARE AMBULANCE SERVICE CLAIMS UPDATE 01: Guidelines for honoring claims for ambulance services are contained in the Tricare Policy Manual 6010.54-M C5 1 Aug 02 Chap 8 Sec. 1-1. Tricare defines ambulance service as transportation by means of a specifically designed vehicle for transporting the sick and injured that contains a stretcher, linens, first aid supplies, oxygen equipment, and such other safety and life saving equipment as is required by state and local law and is staffed by personnel trained to provide first aid treatment. As of JAN 07 Coverage is limited to the following:

a.) Emergency transfers to or from a beneficiary’s place of residence, accident scene, or other location to a civilian hospital, MTF, or VA hospital and transfers between MTFs, VA hospitals and civilian hospitals whether ordered by civilian or military personnel.
b.) Ambulance transfers from a hospital based emergency room to a MTF, VA hospital or other civilian hospital more capable of providing the required care whether ordered by civilian or military personnel.
c.) Transfers between a MTF, or civilian hospital or skilled nursing facility and a freestanding or another hospital based outpatient therapeutic or diagnostic department/ facility whether ordered by civilian or military personnel.
d.) Ambulance services by other than land vehicles (such as a boat or airplane) may be considered only when the pickup point is inaccessible by a land vehicle, or when great distance or other obstacles are involved in transporting the patient to the nearest hospital with appropriate facilities and the patient’s medical condition warrants speedy admission or is such that transfer by other means is contraindicated.
e.) A claim for ambulance service to a USMTF will not be denied on the grounds that there is a nearer civilian institution (hospital) having appropriate facilities to treat the patient.
f.) Ambulance transfer to and from skilled nursing facilities when medically indicated.
g.) Payment of services and supplies provided by ambulance personnel at an accident scene may be allowed when the patient’s condition warrants transfer to an inpatient acute setting and medical services and/or supplies are provided solely to stabilize the patient’s condition while awaiting the arrival of a more urgent means of transfer; e.g., air ambulance services. Refer to Tricare Reimbursement Manual, Chapter 8, Section 2, paragraph IV.C.13.e

Conditions under which claims for ambulance services may be denied are:
1.) Ambulance service used instead of taxi service when the patient’s condition would have permitted use of regular private transportation.
2.) Transport or transfer of a patient primarily for the purpose of having the patient nearer to home, family, friends, or personal physician. Except as described in item (c.) above, transport must be to the closest appropriate facility by the least costly means.
3.) Medicabs or ambicabs which function primarily as public passenger conveyances transporting patients to and from their medical appointments.
[Source: Tricare Area Office-Pacific Feb 07 ++]


VA SOCIAL WORKERS: The VA website advises you will find social workers in all program areas in VA medical centers who are ready to help you with most any need. If you have questions or problems, the social worker will be able to help you or can refer you to the right person for help. Some of the things that VA social workers are available to help veterans with are:

• Financial or housing assistance
• Getting help from the VA or from community agencies, such as Meals on Wheels, so you can continue to live in your own home
• Applying for benefits from the VA, Social Security and other government and community programs
• Making sure your doctor and other VA staff on your treatment team know your decisions about end-of-life issues, generally called advance directives and living wills. Things like whether you want to be on life support equipment, whether you are an organ donor, and which family member or other person you have chosen to make decisions on your behalf when you are unable to make those decisions yourself.
• Arranging for respite care for your caregiver so he/she can have a break or go on vacation without worrying about who will be caring for you.
• If you are having marriage or family problems
• If you would like help with moving to an assisted living facility, a board and care home or a nursing home
• If someone close to you has passed away and you want to talk about it.
• If you have problems with drinking or drug use
• If you feel that someone is taking advantage of you or if you feel mistreated in a relationship
• If you are a parent who feels overwhelmed with child care
• If your parent or spouse is in failing health
• If you are feeling stress because of your health or because your medical condition interferes with your daily activities
• If you are feeling sad, depressed or anxious
• If you really aren’t sure what you need, but things just don’t feel right.

If you need social work assistance regarding a veteran, contact a Social Worker at the nearest VA Medical Center which can be located at http://www1.va.gov/directory/guide/home.asp?isFlash=0. [Source: www.va.gov 29 Mar 07 ++]


VA SOCIAL WORKERS UPDATE 01: Upon request VA social workers will help veterans with problems and concerns. The first step is generally for the social worker to meet with you, and often with your family. The social worker will ask you questions about your health, your living situation, your family and other support systems, your military experience and the things you think you need help with. The social worker will then write an assessment that will help you and your VA health care team make treatment plans. Subsequent steps could be:

- Crisis intervention - In a crisis situation, social workers can provide counseling services to help you get through the crisis. The social worker will then help you with more long-term needs. The social worker can help you apply for services and programs in your community and through the VA to meet emergent needs.
- High-risk screening - Social workers work particularly closely with those veterans who are at high risk, such as those who are homeless, those who have been admitted to the hospital several times, and those who cannot care for themselves any longer.
- Discharge planning - When you are admitted to a VA hospital, the social worker will help you make plans for your discharge back home or to the community. If you need services in your home or if you can no longer live at home by yourself, the social worker can help you make arrangements for the help you need.
- Case management - Social workers often provide long-term case management services to veterans who are at high risk of being admitted to a hospital, those who have very complex medical problems, and those who need additional help and support. They are available when needed to provide and coordinate a variety of services you may need, including counseling or support services or just helping you figure out what you need and how to get it.
- Advocacy - Sometimes it can be hard for a veteran to speak up for himself or herself. And sometimes veterans are confused by such a big, bureaucratic agency like the VA. Social workers can advocate for you and go to bat for you when you have a hard time doing it by yourself.
- Education - Social workers can help educate you and your family about your health care condition, what services and programs are available to you, how you can live a more healthy life, how you can deal with stress and loss, and how you can find support groups and other self-help programs in your community. Social workers also educate other staff in the medical center and in the community about VA programs and services and about how problems veterans may be having in their personal lives can impact their health.
VA social workers can help you with all of these types of services, plus many, many more. If you have a problem or a question, just ask a social worker. [Source: www.va.gov 29 Mar 07 ++]


HOUSEHOLD HINTS:
* Ants: Block their path by drawing a chalk line on the door sill, around the windows or on the floor.
* Appliance cords: Use empty toilet paper roll to store appliance cords. It keeps them neat and you can write on the roll what appliance it belongs to.
* Artificial flowers: Clean by pouring some salt into a paper bag and add the flowers. Shake vigorously as the salt will absorb all the dust and dirt and leave your artificial flowers looking like new
* Blood stains: To remove from clothes pour a little hydrogen peroxide on a cloth and wipe.
* Candles: Candles will last a lot longer if placed in the freezer for at least 3 hours prior to burning. To remove old wax from a glass candle holder put it in the freezer for a few hours. Then take the candle holder out and turn it upside down. The wax will fall out.
* Celery: Wrap in aluminum foil when putting in the refrigerator and it will keep for weeks.
* Corn on the cob: When boiling add a pinch of sugar to help bring out the corn's natural sweetness.
* Crayon marks: Remove from walls with a damp rag dipped in baking soda.
* Envelopes: Open a sealed envelope by placing in the freezer for a few hours and then slide a knife under the flap. The envelope can then be resealed.
* Flying insects: Spray with hairspray and they will take a quick dive.
* Headaches: Take a lime, cut it in half, and rub it on your forehead. The throbbing will go away.
* Icy door steps: In freezing temperatures put Dawn dishwashing liquid in warm water and pour it over the steps. They won't refreeze.
* Mirrors: Use air-freshener to clean. It does a good job and better still leaves a nice smell to the shine.
* Mosquito bites: To get rid of itch try applying soap on the area for instant relief.
* Odors: Spray a bit of perfume on the light bulb in any room to create a light scent in each room when the light is turned on. Place fabric softener sheets in dresser drawers and your clothes will smell freshly washed for weeks to come. You can also do this with towels and linens.
* Permanent marker: Remove from appliances/counter tops with rubbing alcohol on a paper towel.
* S.O.S Pads: Eliminate rusty and smelly pads by cutting them in half with scissors when initially purchased. Doubling the quantity allows throwing them away after each use. Also, scissors are sharpened in the process. An alternative is to freeze after each use and run under hot water when you want to use.
* Skillet: To easily remove burnt on food add a drop or two of dish soap and enough water to cover bottom of pan and bring to a boil on stovetop.
* Splinters: Put scotch tape over the splinter and then pull it off. Scotch tape removes most splinters painlessly and easily.
* TUPPERWARE: Spray with nonstick cooking spray before pouring in tomato based sauces to prevent staining.
* Windows. Use vertical strokes when washing windows outside and horizontal for inside windows. This way you can tell which side has the streaks. Straight vinegar will get outside windows really clean. Don't wash windows on a sunny day. They will dry too quickly and will probably streak.
* Wine: Freeze leftover wine into ice cubes for future use in casseroles and sauces.
[Source: Various Apr 07]


VETERAN LEGISLATION STATUS 13 APR 07: Refer to the Bulletin attachment for a listing of Congressional bills of interest to the veteran community that have been introduced in the 110th Congress. Support of these bills through cosponsorship by other legislators is critical if they are ever going to move through the legislative process for a floor vote to become law. A good indication on that likelihood is the number of cosponsors who have signed onto the bill. A cosponsor is a member of Congress who has joined one or more members in his/her chamber (i.e. House or Senate) to sponsor a bill or amendment. The first member to sign onto a bill is considered the sponsor. Members subsequently signing on are called cosponsors. Any number of members may cosponsor a bill in the House or Senate. At http://thomas.loc.gov you can review a copy of each bill, determine its current status, the committee it has been assigned to, and if your legislator is a sponsor or cosponsor of it. The key to increasing cosponsorship is letting our representatives know of veterans feelings on issues. At the end of some listed bills is a web link that can be used to do that. Otherwise, you can locate on http://thomas.loc.gov who your representative is and his/her phone number, mailing address, or email/website to communicate with a message or letter of your own making.


Lt. James "EMO" Tichacek, USN (Ret)
Director, Retiree Assistance Office, U.S. Embassy Warden & IRS VITA Baguio City RP
PSC 517 Box RCB, FPO AP 96517
Tel: (760) 839-9003 when in U.S. & Cell: 0915-361-3503 when in Philippines.
Email: raoemo@sbcglobal.net (Primary) & raoemo@mozcom.com (Alternate)
Web: http://post_119_gulfport_ms.tripod.com/rao1.html
AL/AMVETS/DAV/FRA/NAUS/NCOA/MOAA/USDR/VFW/VVA/CG33/DD890/AD37 member

[boardman]

RAO Bulletin Update 1 May 2007

THIS BULLETIN UPDATE CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING ARTICLES:

== VA Veterans Pride Initiative ----------- (Wear Your Medals)
== DFAS Website (01) ----------------------------------- (Change)
== Tricare Telephone Survey ----------------- (Input Requested)
== GWOT Returning Heroes TF (01) ------ (Recommendations)
== GWOT Returning Heroes TF (02) --- (Implementation Order)
== Health Care Broken Promise (03) -------- (New Legislation)
== Mobilized Reserve 25 APR 07 ---------- (Net Decrease 707)
== Tricare End-Stage Renal Support ------- (Demo Enrollment)
== Indiana RC Deployment Grants ----- (Annual up to $2,000)
== Nebraska Family Military Leave Act ------- (Up to 15 days)
== VA Fee-Basis Care -------------------------- (Who is Eligible)
== Wiccan Pentacle Lawsuit ------------------ (Now Authorized)
== Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (03) --- (VA Disability Issue)
== VetDogs ----------------------------- (Disabled/Blind Vet Aids)
== War Dog Memorial -------- (Utah Veterans Memorial Park)
== GI Bill (13) ---------------------------- (H.R.1969 Fee Waiver)
== VA MRSA Testing ------------------------ (Initiated 15 MAR)
== AHLTA Warrior ----------------------- (TMIP-J 5th Upgrade)
== Vet Cemetery CA (01) ------------(124th National Cemetery)
== Disposal of Electronic Products ----------------- (What to Do)
== VA Claim Backlog (06) --------- (Washington DC the Worst)
== VDBC (16) --------------------------- (Research Question #19)
== VA Home Loan (07) --------------------------------- (Reminder)
== VA Data Breach (32) ------------------------ ($25,000 Reward)
== DoD/VA Seamless Transition (01) ---- (Huge Step Forward)
== SBP DIC Offset (10) -------------------- (New Bill Introduced)
== VA Category 8 Care (01) -------------- (Bills to Restore Care)
== Agriculture Dept. Data Breach -------- (Ongoing Since 1996)
== Elderly Blood Pressure & Mortality -------- (Survival Rates)
== VA Patient Stats ---------------------------- (Why Care Sought)
== VA Vet Centers ----------------------------- (Walk-ins Double)
== Military Disability Retirement ------------------- (Policy Shift)
== Military Disability Retirement (01) --- (One Soldier's Plight)
== Reserve GI Bill (06) ----------------------------------- (Changes)
== Retiree OCONUS Survey --------------- (Navy/Marine Corps)
== VA Claim Backlog (05) ----------- (Proposed Fixes Rejected)
== National Volunteer Week ------------ (88,000 VA Volunteers)
== Military Health Care TF (05) --------- (TMOP Copay Impact)
== DFAS Payroll ---------------------------- ($3 billion + Monthly)
== Reserve Retirement Age (09) -------------- (S.0648 Objective)
== VA Hefner Medical Center ------------------------ (Assessment)
== VA Rural Access ------------------------------------ (Assessment)
== NARHA Veterans Program ---------------- (Horses for Heroes)
== WWII Merchant Marine Bill -------------- (Equity Questioned)
== Depleted Uranium (03) ----------- (Controversial Health Issue)
== Talking Book Program -------------------- (Available Overseas)
== Military Divorce Study --------------- (No Significant Increase)
== Cool Blue Listerine Recall ---------- (Found to be Inadequate)
== Filipino Vet Inequities (01) ------------- (Opposition to S.0057)
== IRS Data Breach ------------------- (Number Affected Unknown)
== SSA Data Breach ---------------- (Another Government Breach)
== Canes for Veterans (01) --------------- (WWII/Korean War Vets)
== PTSD (13) ---------------------------------- (Effective Sleep Drug)
== Memorial Day Visit Sites ---------------------------- (In Country)
== Veteran Legislation Status 30 APR 07 ------- (Where we stand)

Editor’s Note: Attached is a listing of veteran legislation with current cosponsor status that has been introduced in the 110th Congress. To see any of these bills passed into law representatives need input from their veteran constituents to guide them on how to vote.


VA VETERANS PRIDE INITIATIVE: Wearing earned medals reflects the deep pride veterans have in their military service and reminds all American citizens of the sacrifices our veterans have made. Veterans are again being encouraged to wear their wear their medals or miniature replicas on Memorial Day 28 MAY, the Fourth of July, and Veterans Day 11 NOV. Information about the Veterans Pride initiative is available on the VA Web site at www.va.gov/opa/veteranspride , as well as where veterans can obtain information about how to replace lost or mislaid medals, how to confirm the decorations to which they are entitled, the manner in which they should be displayed, and the precedence by service of how they should be worn. [Source: NAUS Weekly Update 27 Apr 07 ++]


DFAS WEBSITE UPDATE 01: THE Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) is returning to its original World Wide Web location on 1 MAY. The DFAS Web site will shift to http://www.dfas.mil from its current location within the Department of Defense domain at http://www.dod.mil/dfas. DFAS officials believe the change will make the Web site easier to find for its customers and partners. The information available on the site, which includes topics such as military and civilian pay, retiree and annuitant pay, and vendor pay will remain current and relevant for the site’s visitors. Visitors who have bookmarked the old site address at http://www.dod.mil/dfas to access the DFAS site should update their Web browser bookmarks with the new address. Anyone using the old address will be redirected to the new address automatically. This redirect service will be available for the foreseeable future. This change affects the DFAS public Web site only. Other DFAS-sponsored online applications, such as myPay at https://mypay.dfas.mil, remain unaffected and can be accessed at their current online address.

According to the DFAS, questions concerning specific pay account information should be directed to the servicing payroll office or to your normal customer service representative. Additional phone numbers and websites for sending email to redirect your specific pay inquiry are:

- Military Retirees: 1(888) 321-1080 or https://ca.dtic.mil/dfas/s-retired/ret-pay.htm.
- Annuitants: 1(888) 321-1080 (US) or (216) 522-5955 (Outside US) or https://ca.dtic.mil/dfas/s-retired/ret-pay.htm.
- Military Former Spouses: 1-888-332-7411 or https://ca.dtic.mil/dfas/s-garnish/garnishinquiry.htm.
- Air Force Active - Local finance office, 1(888) 332-7411 or Ask Military Pay at https://corpweb1.dfas.mil/askDFAS/askMilPay.jsp.
- Air Force Reserve - Local Reserve center finance office, 1(888) 332-7411 or Ask Military Pay at https://corpweb1.dfas.mil/askDFAS/askMilPay.jsp.
- Army Active - Servicing defense military pay office, finance battalion or Ask Military Pay at https://corpweb1.dfas.mil/askDFAS/askMilPay.jsp.
- Army Reserves - Local administration unit, 1(888) 332-7411 or Ask Military Pay at https://corpweb1.dfas.mil/askDFAS/askMilPay.jsp.
- Army National Guard - Local administration unit, 1(888) 332-7411 or Ask Military Pay at https://corpweb1.dfas.mil/askDFAS/askMilPay.jsp.
- Army Separatees - 1(888) 332-7411 or Ask Military Pay at https://corpweb1.dfas.mil/askDFAS/askMilPay.jsp.
- Marine Corps Active - Local administration office.
- Marine Corps Reserves - Local administration office.
- Navy Active: Local personnel support Det, 1(888) 332-7411 or Ask Military Pay at https://corpweb1.dfas.mil/askDFAS/askMilPay.jsp.
- Navy Reserves - Local Reserve personnel support Det, 1(888) 332-7411 or Ask Military Pay at https://corpweb1.dfas.mil/askDFAS/askMilPay.jsp.
[Source: AF Retiree News 26 Apr 07 ++]


TRICARE TELEPHONE SURVEY: Tricare Management Activity is sponsoring a survey of ill or injured service members beginning 1 MAY to examine post-deployment health care experiences. The survey is in response to a request from Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates. “This will be a timely and effective way to get the feedback the military health system needs to better respond to the post-deployment needs of our service members,” said Ms. Ellen P. Embrey, deputy assistant secretary of defense for force health protection and readiness. Officials will use the data to assess service members’ health care satisfaction levels with their access to care, administrative and personnel support, assistance for family members and their health status.

Findings from the survey will help officials formulate policies and programs to improve meeting the needs of ill and injured service members, including support to family members and as the sponsor goes through the recovery, rehabilitation and reintegration process. Ms. Embrey urges all service members who have returned from deployment to use the survey tool to share their experiences about the accessibility, timeliness and quality of health care services they received since returning from deployment. Officials will keep all responses confidential. For more information, service members may call the Deployment Health Hotline at 1(800) 497-6261 between 0730-1700 EST M-F. The survey also is available at http://fhp.osd.mil/healthSurvey.jsp. [Source: NGAUS Noted 27 Apr 07 ++]


GWOT RETURNING HEROES TF UPDATE 01: On 19 APR 07 Secretary of Veterans Affairs Jim Nicholson submitted the report of The Interagency Task Force On Returning Global War On Terror Heroes to the President. The Task Force identified and examined existing Federal services provided to returning Global War on Terror service members, identified gaps in those services, and sought recommendations from appropriate Federal agencies on ways to fill those gaps quickly and effectively. The report includes recommendations to improve delivery of federal services to returning military men and women. The government-wide action plan contains steps for individual Department or Agency commitment and incorporates cooperative interaction among those providing complimentary services. Recommendations focus on improving the process for receiving services and increased awareness of available benefits among service members and their families. Recommendations involve collaborative efforts among several federal entities to improve the timeliness, ease of application, and delivery of services and benefits to those who earned them. The task force report is available on VA's Website at http://www1.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressre ... fm?id=1327. The 25 recommendations are:

Health Care
1. Develop a system of co-management and case management for returning service members to facilitate ease of transfer from DoD care to VA care.
2. Screen all GWOT veterans seen in VA health care facilities for mild to moderate Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
3. Assist the VA enrollment process by modifying the VA 1010EZ form for GWOT service members, enhance the on-line benefits package to allow a GWOT service member to self-identify, and expand the use of DoD’s military service information to establish eligibility for health care benefits.
4. VA will require each Medical Center Director and Network Director to provide full support at Post-Deployment Health Reassessment for Guard and Reserve members to enroll eligible members and schedule appointments.
5. Standardize VA Liaison agreements across all Military Treatment Facilities (MTFs).
6. Expand VA access to DoD records to coordinate an improved transfer of a service member’s medical care through patient “hand-off”.
7. Enhance the Computerized Patient Record System (CPRS) to more specifically track GWOT service members.
o Develop a Veterans Tracking Application and identifiers to improve monitoring of returning GWOT service members.
o Create a Polytrauma identifier to increase recognition of additional needs of those injured service members.
o Create a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) database to track patients who have experienced TBI.
o Create a DoD/VA interface for health care providers to have access to data on combat theater injured service members.
8. Create an embedded fragment surveillance center to monitor returning service members who have possibly retained fragments of materials in order to provide early medical intervention.
9. Enhance capacity for GWOT service members to receive dental care in the private sector as VA continues to improve their capacity for dental services at their facilities.
10. Enhance Information Technology interoperability between VA and HHS Indian Health Service.
11. VA and HHS will collaborate to improve access to returning service members in remote or rural areas.

Benefits
12. Develop a joint DoD/VA process for disability benefit determinations by establishing a cooperative Medical and Physical Evaluation Board process within the military service branches and VA care system.
13. Extend VA’s Vocational Rehabilitation Evaluation Determination Time Limit of the Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment program beyond 12 months to allow additional time for returning service members to better understand their rehabilitation needs.
14. Expedite handling of adapted housing and special home adaptation grant claims by notifying the returning GWOT applicant within 48 hours of rating decision.

Jobs, Education & Housing
15. Expand eligibility of the Small Business Administration Patriot Express Loan to provide full range of lending, business counseling and procurement programs to veterans, service-disabled veterans, reservists and families if the desire for a returning service member or family is to obtain self-employment.
16. DoD and the Department of Labor will collaborate to improve Civilian Workforce Credentialing and Certification allowing for greater exposure of a service member’s military experience to civilian opportunities.
17. The Department of Labor will work with DoD to develop a Wounded Veterans Intern Program to gain valuable work experience while they serve on medical hold and are transitioning to departure from military service.
18. The Department of Housing and Urban Development will expand access to the National Housing Locator (NHL) to be used by service members and veterans through DoD and VA. The NHL was initially launched as a response to needs for victims of Hurricane Katrina. By expanding its use, returning service members will have a resource that provides safe, disability accessible if needed, and affordable housing to ease in the potential re-location to a new area.

Communicating Available Benefits & Services
19. Increase attendance at the Transition Assistance and Disable Transition Assistance Programs (TAP / DTAP) for active duty, guard and reserve.
20. The Department of Education in cooperation with the Department of Labor will participate in DoD job fairs to provide returning service members and their families with an awareness of the post-secondary education benefits available.
21. The Department of Labor, through the Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS), will participate in the Workforce Investment System in every state and territory and partner with over 120 private and public sector job fairs to expand the number of employers involved in active veteran recruitment.
22. The Department of Labor and DoD will promote awareness of the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-employment Rights Act (USERRA) rights to improve active duty, Guard, and Reservists understanding of their rights at entry to, during, and exiting from military service.
23. The Department of Education will provide education benefits training to the 211 Transition Assistance Program sites which service more than 150,000 transitioning service members annually.
24. The Office of Personnel Management will expand their military treatment facility outreach to promote the availability of federal employment and veterans’ preference rights.
25. The VA Global War on Terrorism newsletter, mailed quarterly to returning service members, will be modified to provide consistent summaries and awareness of available federal services and benefits.
[Source: VA Press Release 24 Apr 07 ++]


GWOT RETURNING HEROES TF UPDATE 02: President Bush has ordered the Defense and Veterans Affairs departments to carry out key recommendations from an interagency task force, including developing a common disability rating system that would make it easier for injured combat veterans to receive benefits. In a statement 25 APR Bush said he has given Secretary of Veterans Affairs R. James Nicholson 45 days to report back on how the task force recommendations can be implemented. The report also recommends the screening of all Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans for possible traumatic brain injuries, better coordination between the VA and Defense Department for patients being transferred between the agencies and better treatment options for veterans in remote areas far from government facilities. The task force also recommended improvements in separation counseling, especially for National Guard and reserve members, and expanded programs to help veterans find post-service employment.

Formed in the wake of the Walter Reed Army Medical Center scandal over the treatment of outpatient combat veterans, the interagency group was charged with finding low- or no-cost ways to improve federal programs that would not require congressional action. Two other government commissions are looking at the same problems without the cost and jurisdictional restrictions and Congress is working on its own ideas, including putting more money into the 2007 emergency supplemental appropriations bill to improve health care and disability claims processing for Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans. Rep. Steve Buyer (R-N) the former chairman and now senior Republican on the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, said he hopes the Defense Department moves on some of the task force’s recommendations involving the transition from active-duty to veteran status. “For a decade, VA has worked to ensure seamless transition, usually without commensurate efforts by the Pentagon,” Buyer said. “We need look no further than stonewalling from DoD’s personnel and readiness bureaucracy for the failures of seamless transition: incomplete electronic health records, lack of an electronic DD-214 and duplicative DoD and VA medical exams.”

Buyer said he hopes that Defense Secretary Robert Gates “exerts a sense of accountability for the total welfare of troops transitioning into the VA system; DoD must no longer foist its responsibilities onto VA.”
“I applaud the task force’s work and the earnest faith VA Secretary Jim Nicholson places in their report,” Buyer said, but added that a report isn’t the same as progress. “When we see federal agencies — principally the Pentagon and VA working hand-in-glove for the benefit of veterans, then we can talk about real progress,” he said. Rep. Bob Filner (D-CA), the current House veterans’ committee chairman, had no immediate reaction to the task force report, but aides said the committee would hold a hearing soon to look at the recommendations in detail.

The House of Representatives on 20 MAR March 29 passed a comprehensive bill to improve care and benefits and try to smooth bumps in the transition to veterans’ status, but the bill has yet to be taken up by the Senate. Aides said instead of passing a separate bill, Senate leaders are planning to include their ideas for improving the treatment of combat veterans in the 2008 defense authorization bill, which the Senate Armed Services Committee will start writing later this month. A House Republican aide, who asked not to be identified because he did not want to appear critical of the Bush plan, said he was unimpressed with the interagency task force report, calling the recommendations “uninspiring” and “nothing we haven’t heard before.” Sen. Larry Craig (R-ID), the former chairman and now senior Republican on the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, said tackling the disability ratings system is a daunting but important issue. “This one action to unify the disability rating process will help cut the red tape for injured service members, and that should lead to an improved benefits delivery system,” Craig said. “I believe this will be a major step forward for future generations of military personnel.” [Source: NavyTimes Rick Maze article 25 Apr 07 ++]


HEALTH CARE BROKEN PROMISE UPDATE 03: From WWII until the early 1990's personnel in positions of authority acting as agents of the United States Government promised the active duty military that if they served for 20 years in the military and retired they would receive free medical care for themselves and their eligible dependents at military treatment facilities for as long as they lived. That promise has been broken. On 16 JUL 96 Colonel George E. Day filed a lawsuit in the Federal Court in Pensacola, FL, to regain the medical care that had been promised. (i.e. http://mrgrg-ms.org/cag- hist.html). In the process of arguing the promised medical care case Colonel Day proved the military retirees allegations that the Armed Forces did make the medical care promise and we had a contract. On 8 FEB 01, a three judge panel of the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit made this unanimous decision… “The retirees entered active duty in the armed forces and completed at least twenty years service on the good faith belief that the government would fulfill its promises. The terms of the contract were set when the retirees entered the service and fulfilled their obligation. The government cannot unilaterally amend the contract terms now. In contracts involving the government, as with all contractual relationships, rights vest and contract terms become binding when, after arms length negotiation, all parties to the contract agree to exchange real obligations for real benefits” However, the government would not let this decision stand and they appealed.

In a 18 NOV 02 conclusion the full court of the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, in a nine for and four against decision, said, "We cannot readily imagine more sympathetic plaintiffs than the retired officers of the World War II and Korean War era involved in this case. They served their country for at least 20 years with the understanding that when they retired they and their dependents would receive full free health care for life. The promise of such health care was made in good faith and relied upon. Again, however, because no authority existed to make such promises in the first place, and because Congress has never ratified or acquiesced to this promise, we have no alternative but to uphold the judgment against the retirees' breach-of-contract claim." (i.e. http://mrgrg-ms.org/f99-1402.html#conclusion). The court went on to say, "Perhaps Congress will consider using its legal power to address the moral claims raised by Schism and Reinlie on their own behalf, and indirectly for other affected retirees." Military Retirees are waiting for the Congress to act on the court's recommendation. The words of the court say that they proved their case, but in the end they lost because on 2 JUN 03 the Supreme Court refused to hear the case.

On 28 FEB 07 Representatives Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Chet Edwards (D-TX), Jeff Miller (R-FL) and Walter Jones (R-NC) introduced two bills in Congress: a revised version of the Keep Our Promise to America’s Military Retirees Act - HR1222, and a new bill, the Keeping Faith with the Greatest Generation Military Retirees Act - HR 1223. Retirees are asked to contact their representatives and request they review and cosponsor these bills to enable their passage. For additional info on the Broken Promise issue refer to http://mrgrg-ms.org. [Source: Veteran Advocate Floyd Sears msg. 25 Apr 07 ++]


MOBILIZED RESERVE 25 APR 07: The Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard announced the current number of reservists on active duty as of 25 APR 07 in support of the partial mobilization. The net collective result is 707 fewer reservists mobilized than last reported for 28 MAR 07. Total number currently on active duty in support of the partial mobilization for the Army National Guard and Army Reserve is 63,266; Navy Reserve 6,249; Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve 5,058; Marine Corps Reserve 5,416; and the Coast Guard Reserve 302. This brings the total National Guard and Reserve personnel, who have been mobilized, to 80,291, including both units and individual augmentees. At any given time, services may mobilize some units and individuals while demobilizing others, making it possible for these figures to either increase or decrease. A cumulative roster of all National Guard and Reserve personnel, who are currently mobilized, can be found at http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Apr2007 ... 425ngr.pdf. [Source: DoD News Release 25 Apr 07 ++]


TRICARE END-STAGE RENAL SUPPORT: The Tricare Management Activity (TMA) is coordinating benefits with Medicare to make it easier for beneficiaries with end-stage renal disease to participate in three Medicare demonstrations. Medicare is offering patients with end-stage renal disease the opportunity to enroll in three demonstrations in multiple counties in Alabama, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Georgia, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Texas. Tricare is acting as second payer for Tricare covered services for beneficiaries participating in these demonstrations. These demonstrations will increase the opportunity for Medicare beneficiaries with end-stage renal disease to receive integrated disease management services. The demonstrations will test the effectiveness of disease management models to increase quality of care for these patients while ensuring they receive care more effectively and efficiently. At the same time, Medicare will assess alternatives for paying for services these beneficiaries receive. Beneficiaries who would like to participate in a demonstration for end-stage renal disease should speak with a representative at their dialysis center to learn if one is available in their area. [Source: Tricare News Release 25 Apr 07 ++]


INDIANA RC DEPLOYMENT GRANTS: Indiana National Guard and Selected Reserve families who are experiencing financial difficulties because of deployment can receive grants from the state. The Military Family Relief Fund, signed into law by Governor Mitch Daniels, is ready to accept applications. The applicant, who, in most cases will be the spouse of the service member, must be able to show the service member has been deployed for more than 30 days and financial difficulty is a result of deployment. The fund is financed through the sale of the “Support Our Troops” and “Hoosier Veteran” license plates. Annual grants of up to $2,000 are available for items such as food, housing, utilities, medical services and transportation. Applications are available from county veterans’ service officers and www.in.gov/veteran. For more information, call the State Military Family Relief Fund Coordinator at 1(317) 232-3922 or email cphillip@dva.in.gov. [Source: Marion Chronicle Tribune article 8 Apr 07 ++]


NEBRASKA FAMILY MILITARY LEAVE ACT: Nebraska State Senator Tom White (D-8th) has won Senate support for his bill that would require employers to grant unpaid leave to spouses and parents of military members deployed for more than 179 days. He introduced the bill to help families while soldiers are gone, and to help them rebuild ties with military members when they return home. LB497, The Family Military Leave Act would require businesses with 15 to 50 employees to permit up to 15 days of unpaid leave. Businesses with more than 50 employees would be required to grant up to 30 days of unpaid leave. The bill is aimed mainly at families of National Guard members but does not exclude U.S. armed forces personnel. The bill must be signed by the governor to become law. [Source: Associated Press article 31 Mar 07 ++]


VA FEE-BASIS CARE: Fee-basis care may be authorized to treat service-connected disabilities when VA has determined that available VA facilities do not have the necessary services required for treatment; the veteran is not able to access VA health care facilities based on geographic constraints or due to medical emergencies; or when it is economically advantageous to provide treatment using fee basis. These determinations are left to local management because they are in the position to best apply these considerations. All fee requests are reviewed individually to determine the entitlement of veterans in accordance with established Veterans Health Administration guidelines and to determine clinical urgency. You may be eligible for a fee basis ID card if:
- You have a service connected disability;
- You will need medical services for an extended period of time; or
- There are no VA health care facilities in your area.

If you have a fee basis ID card, you may choose any doctor that is listed on your card to treat you for the condition. If the doctor accepts you as a patient and bills the VA for services, the doctor must accept the VA's payment as payment in full. The doctor may not bill either you or Medicare for any charges. If your doctor doesn't accept the fee basis ID card, you will need to file a claim with the VA yourself. The VA will pay the approved amount to either you or your doctor. Should a veteran's request for fee basis be denied, the veteran may seek reconsideration of the decision through the local Patient Advocate's Office. VA has outlined this appeal process through issuance of VHA Directive 2006-057 "VHA Clinical Appeals." [Source: Washington Times Sgt Shaft 23 Apr 07 ++]


WICCAN PENTACLE LAWSUIT: Facing lawsuits by veterans and their families, the Bush administration on 23 APR relented and agreed to allow the Wiccan pentacle, a five-pointed star inside a circle, on tombstones at Arlington National Cemetery and other U.S. military burial grounds. The Department of Veterans Affairs previously had given veterans a choice of 38 religious symbols, including numerous forms of the Christian cross, as well as the Jewish Star of David, the Muslim crescent, the Buddhist wheel and an atomic symbol for atheism. For nearly a decade, the department had refused to act on requests for the pentacle, without a clear reason. VA spokesman Matt Burns said that approximately 10 applications were pending from adherents of Wicca, a blend of witchcraft and nature worship that is one of the country's fastest-growing religions. Though the roots of the pre-Christian practice involve "magick" or
witchcraft, Wiccan’s stress that their practice has no ties to Satanism or black witchcraft. Those who identify themselves as Wiccans say the pentacle symbol represents earth, air, fire, water and spirit. It is estimated that at least 1,800 practicing Wiccans serve in the U.S. military.

The case hinged on the practice of the Defense Department begun in the '90s that allows soldiers to state their Wiccan belief on dog tags and to hold services on military installations. In the legal settlement, the VA agreed to grant all the pending requests within two weeks and to approve new ones on an expedited basis for 30 days. The department will also pay $225,000 to the plaintiffs for attorneys' fees. Lawyers familiar with the case said some documents suggested that the VA had political motives for rejecting the pentacle. During his first campaign for president, then-Texas Gov. George W. Bush told ABC's Good Morning America in 1999 that he opposed Wiccan soldiers practicing their faith at Fort Hood TX . He said "I don't think witchcraft is a religion, and I wish the military would take another look at this and decide against it". Allegedly references to Bush's remarks appeared in memos and e-mails within the VA. [Source: The Washington Post Alan Cooperman article 24 Apr 07 ++]


AMYOTROPHIC LATERAL SCLEROSIS UPDATE 03: As a national support group gears up for ALS Awareness Month in May, a retired Air Force general is asking the Veterans Administration to give a service-connected disability to any veteran diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Since 2001, the VA has automatically granted a disability to all veterans of the Persian Gulf War because studies found that those who served there have a 2% higher incident rate of ALS than the general population. But Retired Brig. Gen. Thomas R. Mikolajcik of Mount Pleasant, SC said all veterans have a 1.6% incident rate than the general population. “How do you differentiate between a 1.6 and 2.0 incident rate?” Mikolajcik told Air Force Times on April 23. “All veterans with ALS should get a service-connected disability and get help before they die.”

Jim Benson, a spokesman for the Veterans Administration, said the VA is looking at an ALS study compiled by the National Academies’ Institute of Medicine, and two House committees are reviewing the information, as well. “It’s an issue being discussed and looked at here at the VA,” Benson said, “but there’s no decision at this point regarding any extension of those benefits yet” to veterans who did not serve in the Persian Gulf. According to the ALS Association, a national group based in California, people with the disease typically die between two and five years after they’re diagnosed. The association has designated May as ALS Awareness Month. In a March 23 letter to the VA, Mikolajcik cited a finding by the National Academies Institute of Medicine that says “military service in general, not confined to exposures specific to the Gulf War, is related to the development of ALS.” Mikolajcik said that if the institute’s conclusion is accurate, then the VA is granting benefits to only a portion of all service members exposed to whatever triggers ALS.

Mikolajcik, a Gulf War vet diagnosed with the illness in OCT 03 who has lost the use of his arms and legs, was in Washington, D.C., last year to push for more funding and research into ALS. Mikolajcik said, “Though congressmen said there would be hearings on it, nothing has been scheduled. Things move slowly unless you’re right there [in Washington]. But some things move quickly. Since the VA began a national registry of veterans with ALS, 1,877 have registered; of that number, “only 954 of us are still alive. That tells you the rapidity of the disease and the relentlessness of it”. Mikolajcik commanded the 437th Airlift Wing at Charleston Air Force Base, S.C., before he retired in 1996. During the Gulf War, as commander of the 435th Tactical Airlift Wing at Rhein-Main Air Base, Germany, he made trips into the theater to visit airmen deployed there. [Source: Air Force Times Bryant Jordan article 23 Apr 07 ++]


VETDOGS: According to federal officials the VA is debating whether service dogs are effective and if they should be provided at the government's cost to vets. At present veterans injured in combat often have to wait months for service dogs. Disabled and blind vets must have their guide dogs donated by organizations like VetDogs because the VA does not cover the cost of obtaining and training these animals. It does cover veterinarian expenses and harnesses. VetDogs origin is from the Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind founded in 1946. Part of its mission was to provide guide dogs, free of charge, to wounded soldiers returning from World War II. Demand for guide dogs has grown as rehabilitation therapists realize older veterans with age-related sight impairment can benefit from these animals. Not only does a guide or service dog provide assistance for daily living, the dog serves as an ice breaker, a bridge to conversation and acceptance because it lets people focus on the dog, not the veteran’s disability. VetDogs provides guide dogs for visually impaired veterans and service dogs for those with other special needs, and the training to help them lead active, independent lives again.

California Assembly member Lloyd Levine has authored Assembly Bill 1634 titled the “Healthy Pets Act”. The bill mandates all dogs and cats must be neutered at four months of age, with few exemptions. And the remaining pure bred animals with exemptions would be taxed and regulated by a newly created government bureaucracy. The legislation even threatens criminal penalties. If enacted it could put the future of California’s police K-9 department’s police dogs in jeopardy and also eliminate many guide dogs for the blind and service dogs for the disabled. Nearly all working police dogs were once somebody's pet dog. They are bought as young pups, placed with families, and then if they pass all the working and health tests, eventually they may end up with a police department.

Through the Guide Dog Foundation an innovative new device called Trekker is available for blinded veterans. Trekker uses a handheld PDA, GPS technology, and a tactile overlay to help a visually impaired person navigate unfamiliar territory. As a person walks with Trekker, he or she can access information about approaching intersections, street names, and points of interest, and establish and follow routes. After entering a location, the Trekker will “speak” the directions; the user can then give instructions to his dog. This service is available to all veterans who are guide dog users, even if they have a dog from another dog guide school. For additional info on this organization refer to www.guidedog.org/vetdogs.htm. [Source: South Florida Sun-Sentinel Diane Lade article 22 Apr 07 ++]


WAR DOG MEMORIAL: Dogs have served faithfully alongside America’s fighting men and women but rarely has there been any public recognition for man’s best friend in a world where a man most needs a friend. Alan Cunningham appreciates the roles dogs have played during wartime and is hoping others will take notice. This month, the American Fork veterinarian unveiled a memorial at Utah Veterans Memorial Park near Camp Williams, honoring America’s four-legged service members. Near the entrance to the visitors’ center, a bronze German shepherd sits majestically over a plaque that reads “In honor of canine war heroes and forgotten service animals.” The War Dog Memorial Fund in Corona, Calif., estimates that 4,900 dogs served the U.S. in Vietnam. In the field, they would take the point in front of their handlers, warning troops of enemy soldiers and trip wires. In firefights, the dogs were known to shield troops with their bodies and drag the wounded to safety, Cunningham said. In the troops’ down time, the dogs served as much-needed companions. Maurice Johnson of the War Dog Memorial Fund said those dogs are credited with saving 10,000 American lives in a war that claimed 58,000. The War Dog Memorial Fund hopes to erect a national war dog memorial at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Cunningham is working not only to honor the dogs’ service but to memorialize the lives that were lost. When the U.S. pulled its combat troops from Vietnam, he said, the government considered the dogs to be equipment. Most were euthanized. “It really was disheartening to a lot of the soldiers. To this day, a lot of them still grieve the untimely, unnecessary loss of those animals,” Cunningham said. “So this is a way to help them get reconciliation.” Dogs are not the only animals that have served America during wartime, and the plaque on the memorial honors those other service animals, as well. Horses carried troops into battle. Passenger pigeons were used to send notes from the battlefield. During the 2003 invasion of Iraq, dolphins helped the military detect mines in the waters of the Persian Gulf. Cunningham is pleased that his dream of a war dog memorial is finally a reality, but he is not stopping there. He has petitions in veterinary clinics calling for a commemorative stamp for the animals, and has sent about 6,000 signatures to the postmaster general. He is also publishing “Silent Voices,” a book about the war dogs he said he hopes to release this summer. [Source: Associated Press article 23 Apr 07 ++]


GI BILL UPDATE 13: The $1,200 enrollment fee for GI Bill benefits would be waived for junior enlisted members and everyone in the military would get a second chance to enroll in the education benefits program under a bill introduced by Rep. Lee Terry (R-NE). Terry is not the first lawmaker to propose waiving the fee, but his proposal is slightly different because it targets only troops in pay grades E-5 and below. His second chance at enrollment also is aimed, primarily, at junior enlisted members who could take advantage of no longer having to pay for the benefits program. His bill, HR 1969, is called the Montgomery GI Bill Improvement Act of 2007. It was referred to two House committees — armed services and veterans’ affairs — that are both looking at updating the GI Bill, with waiver of the fee one of the actions being considered. The $1,200 fee, established when the Montgomery GI Bill was created in 1985, is paid in $100 installments during the first year of service for most people. Some reservists who completed two or more years of active-duty service can enroll in the program later in their careers, but other service members are required to make an irrevocable decision about enrolling during their initial military training.

“The $100 per month enrollment fee required for participation in the GI Bill sets up an unnecessary barrier to educational opportunities for enlisted military families trying to make ends meet and care for their children. Current and former military members, public housing organizations and groups advocating on behalf of military families have called for eliminating the fee”, said Terry. One of the reasons the fee has remained in place, despite some misgivings about the idea of having to pay for a veterans’ benefit, is that more than 90% of enlisted recruits sign up for the GI Bill during basic training, which seems to show that the charge is not a big discouragement. But Terry said having the fee works against service members with families who struggle to meet their basic needs and the needs of their children. The second chance to sign up for GI Bill benefits proposed by Terry would have no penalty and no enrollment fee for E-5s and below.
[Source: NavyTimes Rick Maze article 23 Apr 07 ++]


VA MRSA TESTING: Drug-resistant bacteria that were rare just six years ago now are the most common cause of skin and soft-tissue infections treated in emergency rooms at 11 hospitals across the nation. Researchers at UCLA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA, accounted for 59% of skin infections overall, from 15% at a hospital in New York to 74% at one in Kansas City, Mo. MRSA has long been known as an infection associated with hospitals, where patients are already sick and vulnerable. MRSA skin infections can cause painful lesions or sores. A newer strain of MRSA known as "community associated" has emerged outside hospitals and is causing severe infections in previously healthy children and adults. Now some hospitals are starting aggressive programs to keep the bug at bay. Known as "search and destroy," the programs are relatively untested in the U.S., so they can be seen as an expensive gamble. At Evanston Northwestern health care outside Chicago, all incoming patients are tested, and if they are found to carry MRSA, they are isolated and treated, says epidemiologist Ari Robiscek. Everyone who enters their rooms wears gloves and a gown. People can carry MRSA bacteria, usually in their noses or on their skin, without being sick. But they can pass the bug to uninfected patients and health workers.

Standard tests take 48 hours to yield results, but newer ones cut that down to one to two hours. But they're more expensive; $25,000 to $35,000 or more for a base unit that runs individual tests that cost about $25 each. Robiscek says the MRSA program at his hospital costs $600,000 to $1 million a year to test about 40,000 patients but has cut the number of MRSA infections from more than 100 a year to about 50. Each infection adds about $30,000 to the cost of treatment, he says, "so our hospital administration feels in addition to the human cost, there has been a financial benefit." After seeing similar results at an MRSA prevention program at the VA Pittsburgh health care System, the Veterans Administration ordered all its 139 hospitals to begin, as of 15 MAR, phasing in MRSA prevention programs. Under the VA plan, patients are tested on admission, again when moved to a different unit in the hospital, and on discharge. MRSA carriers are isolated, and precautions are required. Rajiv Jain, chief of staff at the Pittsburgh VA, who also leads the national program, says results in Pittsburgh have been "dramatic. There has been a 50% to 60% reduction in infection rates." [Source: USA Today Anita Manning article 15 Mar 07 ++]


AHLTA WARRIOR: The Theater Medical Information Program-Joint (TMIP-J) has released a fifth groundbreaking upgrade to its medical software suite. The new capability, known as AHLTA Warrior, will allow doctors on the battlefield to view a patient’s complete electronic health record that is stored stateside in the AHLTA Clinical Data Repository. Some other new features that will be welcome additions to the software suite include, “wildcard” patient search functions, updated medical dictionaries and new medical and disease classification codes. The “wildcard” patient search will allow providers to quickly locate patient records using the first few letters of a last name and a special character. The updated codes will streamline documenting and reporting duties resulting in an overall improvement in efficiency and data quality.

TMIP-J is an integrated suite of software that supports complete clinical care documentation, medical supply and equipment tracking, patient movement visibility, and health surveillance in an austere communications environment. As part of the Military Health System, TMIP-J provides medical information management technology to support the U.S. Military’s deployed medical business practice. It also serves as the medical component for both the Global Combat Support System and the Global Command and Control System. TMIP-J is being used successfully by the Marine Corps in Operation Iraqi Freedom, the Air Force in Balad and Bagram hospitals, the Navy in Kuwait and the Army in over 100 units, including 50 medical units and 12 combat support hospitals. TMIP provides a total medical information management solution for the medical business practice in theater. For more information, refer to www.tricare.osd.mil/peo/tmip. [Source: TMA Press Release 7-22 dtd 20 Apr 07 ++]


VET CEMETERY CA UPDATE 01: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) held a dedication ceremony 22 APR to officially open VA’s 124th national cemetery, the Sacramento Valley VA National Cemetery, located in Dixon CA. The ceremony included remarks by VA Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs William Tuerk and local elected officials. The dedication plaque was unveiled and full military honors were performed with a flyover from Travis Air Force Base of C-17, C-5 and KC-10 aircraft. The ceremony was concluded with the playing of Taps. The 561-acre site is located in Solano County, approximately 27 miles southwest of Sacramento along Interstate 80 between Dixon and Vacaville. Nearly 346,000 veterans and their families live within the service radius of the national cemetery. Burials began in October 2006, in an area of approximately 14 acres, which includes one committal shelter and three burial sections. That area has capacity for 8,466 gravesites, consisting of 3,070 pre-placed crypts and 1,642 standard gravesites, as well as 3,754 in-ground cremation gravesites. Although the cemetery is open for burials, construction will continue until JUL 09.

When the initial 110-acre construction project is completed, the cemetery will have 17,200 full-casket gravesites, 12,000 pre-placed crypts, a 3,000-unit columbarium for cremated remains, and 765 sites for in-ground cremated remains. Veterans with a discharge other than dishonorable, their spouses and eligible dependent children can be buried in a national cemetery. Other burial benefits available for all eligible veterans, regardless of whether they are buried in a national cemetery or a private cemetery, include a burial flag, a Presidential Memorial Certificate and a government headstone or marker. In the midst of the largest cemetery expansion since the Civil War, VA operates 125 national cemeteries in 39 states and Puerto Rico, and 33 soldiers' lots and monument sites. More than three million Americans, including veterans of every war and conflict are buried in VA’s national cemeteries on more than 16,000 acres of land. Information on VA burial benefits can be obtained from national cemetery offices, from the Internet at http://www.cem.va.gov or by calling VA regional offices at 1(800) 827-1000. For information on the Sacramento Valley VA National Cemetery, call the cemetery office at (707) 693-2460. [Source: VA Press Release 22 Apr 07 ++]


DISPOSAL OF ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS: On average, the original owner keeps a laptop computer for only three years and will discard their cell phone after only 24 months. However, many televisions, computers, computer monitors, mobile phones and other electronics are still in good working condition and can be recycled, refurbished or donated to schools and charities. Numerous companies have created and are participating in programs designed to assist consumers in recycling used electronics products. These programs help place your electronics products into the recycling stream by refurbishing the device or giving it back to the community, either to schools, charities, economically disadvantaged or disabled citizens of your community. You can even get tax deductions for donating your working electronics to schools or charities. These efforts benefit both the environment and your community. Following are two disposal options applicable to almost every American household:

- Computer Disposal: The Electronic Industries Alliance www.eiae.org has a handy state-by-state lookup you can use to find both disposal and recycling facilities in your area. To locate a disposal point closest to you click on your state shown on the site to find reuse, recycling, and donation programs across the country for your electronic products. If you aren't sure what to look for in a recycler and/or would like to determine if your devices will be handled properly refer to the series of questions to ask at www.eiae.org/faqs.php. Never throw an old computer in a dumpster as it is hazardous waste in our landfills. Before disposing of your computer, it is a good idea to make sure your personal or confidential data is removed from the machine. A simple method is to use a disk eraser that will not only delete the data, but overwrite it with special patterns that render the information unrecoverable. The most popular of these tools is called Eraser available through http://www.heidi.ie/eraser at no charge. As with all programs, only install something if you actually need it. It is recommended that you simply bookmark the above site, for later access when actually disposing of your computer.
- Rechargeable Battery Disposal: The Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC) can help you recycle your used portable rechargeable batteries and old cell phones. Rechargeable batteries are commonly found in cordless power tools, cellular and cordless phones, laptop computers, camcorders, digital cameras, and remote control toys. RBRC recycles the following battery chemistries: Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd), Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH), Lithium Ion (Li-ion) and Small Sealed Lead* (Pb). RBRC is dedicated to keeping rechargeable batteries and cell phones out of our nation’s solid waste stream and preserving natural resources. To Locate a collection site closest to you call up www.rbrc.org/call2recycle/dropoff/index.php and enter your zip code.
[Source: Tips & Topics 22 Apr 07 ++]


VA CLAIM BACKLOG UPDATE 06: The worst city in which to file a veterans’ benefits claim is Washington, where 63% of claims take longer than six months to resolve, according to a major veterans’ service organization. AMVETS, a 60-year-old group that helps veterans with about 24,000 claims a year, says a survey has shown veterans in Fargo, N.D.; Boise, Idaho; and Providence, R.I., have the fastest service, with only 6 to 7% of claims taking longer than six months to resolve. Washington may be the worst, but other major cities also are slow. AMVETS national service officer and Navy veteran Luz Rebollar said in Chicago, Detroit, Pittsburgh, New Orleans and Montgomery AL about 40% of the claims take longer than six months to process. One reason for the differences is that the number of people assigned to process claims in some VA regions does not match the claims caseloads in those areas. For example, VA workers in Hartford CT handle 92 cases a year, while workers in Augusta ME handle 57 cases a year.

The Bush administration has proposed hiring 450 additional claims processors to try to reduce the backlog, but AMVETS officials have warned that more people will not solve the problem and, unless the caseloads are more evenly spread, will not eliminate delays for some people. AMVETS is pushing the idea of allowing electronic claims filing and other efforts to use technology to help process claims. “The backlog issue is not going to go away until the federal government rolls up its sleeves and takes a serious look at expediting the resolution of claims,” Rebollar said. “Until that happens, young veterans just returning from service in Iraq and Afghanistan are going to continue to be frustrated with our government and with a system they believe is failing to fulfill the promises that were made to them when they entered the service.” To review the delay time in your city refer to www.navytimes.com/projects/pages/042007vastats. [Source: NavyTimes Rick Maze article 20 Apr 07 ++]


VDBC UPDATE 16: VA claims terminate at the time of the veteran’s death when dependents remain. Under current policy in accordance with judicial interpretation of the statutory scheme governing veterans’ benefits, a veteran’s claim for VA disability benefits is considered closed with the veteran’s death. After death, VA solicits a claim for accrued benefits if there is evidence of spouse or children or parents, in that order. These dependents must file the accrued benefits claim within one year after the veteran’s death. However, the claim for accrued benefits is based on the evidence of record as of the date of the veteran’s death. This raises the issue of whether or not survivors should be able to continue the veteran’s claim and introduce new evidence? Accrued benefits are benefits due the veteran but were not paid to the veteran prior to his death. The Veterans’ Disability Benefits Commission is examining this issue in order to determine the appropriateness of current VA benefits provided for injuries and disabilities resulting from military service.

This is a work in progress (i.e. Research Question #19) and no final decision has been made by the commission. A draft report was issued on 22 FEB and a final report is to be considered at the APR 07 meeting. There is still considerable disagreement over the appropriateness of the current law. Those opposed argue that it unfairly punishes veterans’ survivors (includes spouse, minor, school or helpless children and dependent parents. for circumstances beyond their control. In particular, considering all available evidence in a veteran’s case might be more equitable to the veteran and his/her survivors. Those in favor of the current rule argue that the consistency of court rulings indicates a clear legislative intent in agreement with the current rule, and that the availability of an accrued benefits claim solves many of the arguments against the current rule. There has been no recent legislative action regarding this issue. The courts have only addressed the interpretation of the existing statutory scheme, not the equity of the laws. Options to be considered by the commission are:
1. Endorse the current policy of closing the veteran’s pending claim at the time of his/her death and allow the veteran’s survivors to apply for the veteran’s due but unpaid benefits.
2. Endorse a policy of, if all documents (i.e. claim, medical records – service and private and lay statements) have been received by VA and the claim is in the process of a decision, VA should continue the decision process even in the event of the veteran’s death. Additionally, if an appeal is before BVA or an appeals court; BVA or the court should continue their review and render a decision even in the case of the veteran’s death.
3. Endorse allowing the veteran’s survivors, but not a creditor, to pursue the veteran’s due but unpaid benefits and any additional benefits by continuing the claim which was pending when the veteran died, including presenting new evidence not in VA’s possession at the time of death. [Source: www.vetscommission.org Apr 07 ++]


VA HOME LOAN UPDATE 07: Since its implementation in 2004, many veterans have misunderstood the VA Home Loan Increased Entitlement. The Veterans Benefits Act of 2004 increased VA home loan eligibility. Veterans who qualify for the home loan benefit may obtain a no down payment home loan of up to $417,000. Qualified veterans purchasing a home in the high cost areas of Alaska, Guam, Hawaii and the U.S. Virgin Islands may obtain a no down payment home loan of up to $625,500. There are five easy steps to a VA loan:
1. Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) http://www.homeloans.va.gov/.
2. Decide on a home and sign a purchase agreement.
3. Order an appraisal from VA. (this is done by the lender.) Ordering an appraisal can be done via the Internet using TAS (The Appraisal System) at http://vip.vba.va.gov/.
4. Apply to a mortgage lender for the loan.
5. Close the loan and move in.
[Source: American Legion Weekly Update 10 Apr 07 ++]


VA DATA BREACH UPDATE 32: On 10 FEB 07 VA reported they had learned of a portable hard drive used by an employee in Birmingham, Alabama to be missing and may have been stolen (Refer to Update 31). The data files on the government-owned hard drive their employee was working on may have included sensitive VA-related information on approximately 535,000 individuals. The investigation subsequently determined that information on approximately 1.3 million non-VA physicians – both living and deceased – could have been stored on the missing hard drive. It is believed though, that most of the physician information is readily available to the public. Some of the files, however, may contain sensitive information. The Federal Bureau of Investigations is offering a $25,000 reward for the return of the missing VA hard drive.

On 22 MAR 07 DVA announced that it had mailed more than 254,000 warning letters to people whose personal information was on the missing computer hard drive. The letters recommended that the veterans contact a credit monitoring service to check for signs of fraud or identity theft. Following is a list of steps provided by the Federal Trade Commission that you should take if you learn your personal and/or financial information has been lost or stolen.

1. Contact Major Credit Bureaus IMMEDIATELY and place a 90-day fraud alert on your credit file, and obtain a free copy of your credit report. Major credit bureaus include:
-- Equifax at 1-800-525-6285 or www.equifax.com or P.O. Box 740250, Atlanta, GA. 30374
-- Experian at 1-888-397-3742 or www.experian.com or P.O. Box 9532, Allen, Tex. 705013
-- TransUnion at 1-800-680-7289 or www.transunion.com or Fraud Victim Assistance Division, P.O. Box 6790, Fullerton, Calif.

2. Get Organized: In dealing with the police and financial companies, keep a record of all conversation including the names of people you spoke with on the phone, dates, and phone numbers.
3. Put it in Writing: Follow up in writing with all contacts you've made on the phone or in person. Use certified mail, return receipt requested, and keep copies of all letters and documents. Form letters and charts to help you track your correspondence are available at the Federal Trade Commission ID Theft Website www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft. Note the time you spent and any expenses incurred in case you are able to seek restitution in a later judgment or conviction against the thief. You may be able to obtain tax deductions for theft-related expenses.
4. Keep Old Files. Keep old files even if you believe your case is closed. Once resolved, most cases stay resolved, but problems can crop up.
[Source: Congressman Bud Cramer website 20 Apr 07 ++]


DOD/VA SEAMLESS TRANSITION UPDATE 01: An effort by DoD and VA to provide a smoother, seamless transition from active duty to veteran status has taken a huge step. As of 23 APR medical staff at all 154 hospitals and the roughly 800 clinics run by the DVA should be able to access the Department of Defense medical records of servicemembers returning from Afghanistan and Iraq. “This is great news. An integrated electronic record system between the DoD and VA is something we in Congress have been insisting upon. I’m very pleased with this progress and I applaud both agencies for making this happen,” said Sen. Larry Craig, the top Republican on the U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. The Idaho Republican has been advocating for the integration since visiting Iraq several years ago with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs Jim Nicholson.

Medical staff at several VA facilities gained access to the DoD’s Joint Patient Tracking Application (JPtA) last year, but that access was shut off by DoD officials amid medical privacy concerns. Within days Senator Craig and Senator Daniel Akaka, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, issued a joint letter calling for a change in military policy. A few days later, staff at four VA medical centers had their access restored. Craig said, “What is significant now is that every VA facility will have access to these important medical records. Knowing exactly what other doctors have recorded will help with treatment and could, in fact, save lives”. [Source: Sebate committee n Veteran Affairs Press Release 20 Apr 07 ++]

[boardman]

RAO 1 May 2007 Page 2
SBP DIC OFFSET UPDATE 10: On 17 APR, Rep. Solomon Ortiz (D-TX) introduced a new bill “The Military Retiree Survivor Equity Act” H.R.1927 that would end deduction of VA survivor benefits from SBP and accelerate implementation of 30-year paid-up SBP coverage. H.R.1927 is identical to Sen. Bill Nelson's S. 935. Survivors of active duty and retired members who die of service-connected causes now have DIC ($1,067 per month) deducted from SBP. Veteran advocates believe that, if military service caused a retired member's death, DIC should be added to the SBP benefit the retiree paid for, not substituted for it. There are about 61,000 survivors affected by the DIC offset. The paid-up SBP initiative would affect 172,000 Greatest Generation retirees. At present there are two other House bills addressing the SBP issue. Rep. Henry Brown's H.R. 1589 (SBP-DIC) and Rep. Jim Saxton's H.R. 784 (paid-up SBP). [Source: MOAA Leg Up 20 Apr 07 ++]


VA CATEGORY 8 CARE UPDATE 01: A key senator has joined forces with a New Jersey congressman in trying to re-open enrollment for veterans’ medical care to veterans with moderate incomes and no service-connected disabilities. The bill, introduced in the House and Senate, would restore eligibility to veterans’ health care to about 242,000 people. Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) a member of the Senate veterans’ affairs and appropriations committees, has joined Rep. Steve Rothman (D-NJ) in sponsoring the Honor Our Commitment to Veterans Act, which would reverse a Bush administration decision four years ago to bar new enrollments in the VA health plan for those in Priority 8, the lowest category on VA’s health care priority list. Priority 8 includes veterans who either have no service-connected disability or a zero percent disability rating, with incomes above a threshold based on family size. The thresholds range from $27,790 for a veteran with no dependents to $38,948 for a veteran with four dependents, with an additional $1,866 in income to allow for each additional dependent.

The enrollment ban took effect on 17 JAN 03, and was done to cut costs. VA officials said that most of the veterans who are in Priority 8 either have or could get other medical coverage. “When it comes to veterans' healthcare, caveats and exceptions are not acceptable,” Murray said. Her bill, S 1147, is similar to a measure introduced in January by Rothman, a member of the House Appropriations Committee who has been trying to get enrollment reopened for Priority 8 veterans since 2004. “My legislation demands that the federal government fully fund VA health care services so that no veteran in need is turned away,” Rothman said. Rothman’s bill, HR 463, has 37 cosponsors. Murray didn’t have any original cosponsors for her bill.
Both bills take the same approach by requiring the VA to allow enrollment for any veteran who applies, which would terminate the enrollment freeze.

The cost of restoring the eligibility of Priority 8 veterans for VA health care is a matter of some dispute. Murray’s office estimates it would cost $519 million to provide coverage today and $2.3 billion to provide coverage through 2012. Murray said the Bush administration cut off enrollment for new Priority 8 veterans in the face of budgetary problems and growing backlogs for patients when there were other options. “Instead of confronting the VA’s shortfall head on by asking for the resources necessary to address them, this administration cut off care to veterans of modest means,” she said. Rothman said the enrollment ban is particularly hard on people in high-cost areas, like the New Jersey counties he represents. That is because they generally earn more money, making them more likely to exceed the income thresholds — but their cost of living is higher as well. [Source: NavyTimes Rick Maze article 19 Apr 07 ++]


AGRICULTURE DEPARTMENT DATA BREACH: The Social Security numbers of 63,000 people who received Agriculture Department grants have been posted on a government Web site since 1996, but were taken down last week. Free credit monitoring is being offered to those affected. The Agriculture data that included Social Security numbers were removed from the Web on 13 APR and similar data from 32 other agencies were taken down 17 APR as a precaution, said Agriculture spokeswoman Terri Teuber.
A review has determined that none of the other 32 agencies had a similar problem, said Sean Kevelighan, spokesman for the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). “There is no evidence that this information has been misused,” Teuber added. “However, due to the potential that this information was downloaded prior to being removed, USDA will provide the additional monitoring service.”

The breach was discovered by Marsha Bergmeier, president of Mohr Family Farms in Fairmount IL while Googling when she could not sleep. The next morning (13 APR) she contacted the Agriculture Department, her congressman, Rep. Tim Johnson, the private Web site and the Census Bureau and was surprised by how quickly they removed the personal information. “If somebody downloaded it, it’s still out there in the world,” she said. “That will never be a private number again.” Chris Hoofnagle, senior attorney at the University of California at Berkeley law school clinic on technology, said the only federal law violated by such a breach is the Privacy Act, but the Supreme Court had ruled last year that victims could only collect damages for measurable losses to ID thieves, not merely for anxiety. Nevertheless, the incident is likely to spur passage of a federal law requiring notification of potential victims when personally identifiable information is disclosed or stolen electronically, Hoofnagle predicted. Already 35 states have such a law.

The disclosure comes six months after a congressional report found federal workers at 19 agencies had lost personal information affecting thousands of employees and the public, raising concerns about the government’s ability to protect sensitive information. In all, the House Government Reform Committee reported 788 incidents involving the loss or compromise of sensitive personal information since 1 JAN 03. That was in addition to the hundreds of security and privacy incidents at the Department of Veterans Affairs, according to a report the committee issued in October. To avoid revealing information that could increase the vulnerability of this private data, Teuber said Agriculture was not releasing more details, including the Web address, of the government site where this information was disclosed until all potentially compromised recipients have been notified. The Agriculture Department is sending registered mail notifications to 150,000 recipients identified as having been part of the public database since 1981, but Teuber said some people are on the list more than once. At an estimated taxpayer cost of $4 million, Agriculture is offering each of them free credit monitoring for one year.

USDA funding recipients who wish to take advantage of the credit monitoring offer will receive instructions on how to register. Any USDA funding recipient with questions can 1(800) 333-4636) or visit http://USA.gov. The call center operates from 08-2000 EDT, M-F. Under supervision of the Office of Management and Budget, the grant numbers posted by the other 32 agencies were taken down and reviewed to see if any included Social Security numbers. “We are sure no other agencies ... were impacted by similar problems,” said OMB’s Kevelighan. He attributed the quick response to government-wide safeguards set up after the Veterans Affairs Department problems last year. Teuber said an unknown number of private Web sites had downloaded and reposted the information, but she said at least one of them, OMB Watch, had also removed the identifying grant numbers. OMB Watch director Gary D. Bass said Bergmeier contacted his group April 13 after finding her number on the Web site of his public interest group. The group referred her to Agriculture and Census, where it got the data. Veterans seeking protection against government’s inability to protect their personal data should review the availability of personal identity theft insurance on their search engine. [Source: Associated Press writer Michael J. Sniffen 20 Apr 07 ++]


ELDERLY BLOOD PRESSURE & MORTALITY: Aggressive treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension) in patients who are 80 years or older is associated with lower five-year survival rates than their counterparts with blood pressure levels at or higher than treatment target levels, researchers report. Physicians should therefore "use caution in their approach to blood pressure-lowering in this age group," they advise in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society. Dr. Daniel J. Oates of the Boston Medical Center and his co-workers evaluated five years of data from 10 Veterans Affairs sites and Social Security files. The study group involved 4,071 ambulatory patients 80 years or older with hypertension. The researchers found that patients with normal or higher blood pressures were less likely to die during follow-up than those with lower blood pressures. Specifically, for each 10-point increase in blood pressure, the researchers estimated that the mortality risk increased by about 17%. This effect was seen up to a systolic blood pressure of 139 mmHg (the top number) and a diastolic blood pressure of 89 mmHg (the bottom number). However, in patients with uncontrolled hypertension, defined as systolic pressure of 140 mmHg or higher and diastolic pressure of 90 mmHg or higher, there was no significant association between survival and blood pressure levels. These findings suggest that overly aggressive control of blood pressure might be harmful in this age group. Investigators cite other studies that also show higher blood pressures are protective in older patients. Older patients with low blood pressure need to be monitored for fainting, which would put them at risk of falls, the team notes. This group should also be watched for nonspecific symptoms, such as weakness, weight loss and memory loss. [Source: Journal of the American Geriatric Society Mar 07 ++]


VA PATIENT STATS: New statistics show Iraq and Afghanistan combat veterans no longer in the military are most likely to seek care for musculoskeletal diseases, mental health disorders, and symptoms without an immediate known cause, such as rashes or dizziness. The numbers, provided to the GAO by the DVA, include 229,015 service members who served in Iraq or Afghanistan since 2003 who have left the military and had a medical appointment at a VA facility. A total of 636,306 service members who have served in Iraq or Afghanistan have left the military. The numbers show that 5% of those who served in combat and left the military were reserve or National Guard troops, but they represented 51% of those who sought care. A breakdown by service of those who visited a VA facility is 66% Army, 12% Air Force, 12% Marines, and 10% Navy. The numbers also show that more veterans requested treatment for PTSD in specific geographic areas. For example, 1,026 veterans asked for help for PTSD symptoms in upstate New York compared to 49 in Grand Junction, Colo. Those numbers are important because even as the VA struggles to get mental health care to rural areas, its resources are stressed in other regions. A total of 39,243 veterans asked for treatment for PTSD. The statistics also show that 88% of those seeking treatment were male, 97% were outpatients and 92% were enlisted. Veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars represented 4% of the total number of vets using VA health care, which is more than 5 million. The top reasons for seeking treatment were 37% for mental disorders, 43% for musculoskeletal injuries — usually back or joint problems — and 34% for symptoms without an immediate known cause. [Source: Army Times Kelly Kennedy article 20 Apr 07 ++]


VA VET CENTERS: The number of returning Iraq and Afghanistan combat veterans visiting Department of Veterans Affairs walk-in clinics has more than doubled since 2004, while the clinics’ staff has increased by less than 10%, agency records show. The clinics, known as Vet Centers, are meant to make it easier for combat veterans to receive help. Last year, 21,681 Iraq and Afghanistan veterans visited the centers, up from 8,965 in 2004. The number of clinic staff members rose from 992 to 1,063 during the same period, according to the VA records. A VA survey of clinic team leaders that the agency provided to USA Today shows that 114 of the 209 Vet Centers need at least one extra psychologist or therapist to help with the influx of veterans. The VA is only slated to add 61 new staff members. Al Batres, the national director of Vet Center operations, said he will fill those additional slots over time. In addition, he said he has the budget to open 23 new centers across the country by SEP 08, the end of the next budget year. He said the new centers will help serve the growing number of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans. “My task is to try to direct the right kind of services at the right time to the right place,” Batres said.

The VA has consistently underestimated the needs of many Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, said Joe Davis, a spokesman for the Veterans of Foreign Wars. “The Vet Centers are on the front lines. Every one of the 200-plus Vet Centers are providing a vital service, but our greatest concern is five years from now when more veterans and their families enter the system”, Davis said. The Vet Centers are small, storefront operations with a staff of four to five people each. The centers were created in 1979 to help Vietnam War veterans readjust to society. Services include combat stress counseling, marriage therapy, job assistance and medical referrals. Five of the clinics in the VA survey said they have people waiting in line for service. An informal survey last year by House Democratic staffers of 60 centers found that all of them reported significant increases in demand and about 10 reported using group therapy sessions, rather than individual counseling, to handle the increase. In the VA survey, only two of the clinics said shortages led them to substitute group therapy for more appropriate individual counseling. Among the findings in the VA survey:
• 26 centers said it takes longer to help veterans because of the increased workload.
• 22 centers reported they cannot provide family counseling when necessary.
• 54 centers said more sexual trauma treatment is needed.

Batres has hired 100 Iraq and Afghanistan veterans to help educate new veterans about services. Unlike clinic visits, which involve veterans meeting individually with staff members, many outreach efforts involve staffers speaking to groups of veterans. Veterans of several wars use the centers, VA records show. In 2004, 125,737 veterans visited the centers or were contacted through outreach efforts; that number rose to 228,612 in 2006. Last year, the White House proposed cutting $47 million from the $3.3 billion budget for veterans’ readjustment benefits. Two congressional committees agreed, but the Republican-controlled Congress didn’t pass a final spending bill. This year, Congress passed a resolution that keeps spending at the 2006 levels. [Source: ArmyTimes reprint of USA Today Gregg Zoroya article 20 Apr 97 ++]


MILITARY DISABILITY RETIREMENT: Wary of rising disability retirement costs, the DoD under then-secretary Caspar Weinberger quietly sought and received an internal legal opinion that, to this day, tamps down the number of wounded or ill service members awarded military disability retirement.
The 25 MAR 85 memo from the DoD office of general counsel, which only recently came to light, gave Defense health officials a green light to restrain military disability ratings without a change in law. They did so by directing the services to stop setting disability awards based on all service-connected ailments found during medical evaluations, and start basing them only on conditions that leave members unfit for duty. The policy change took effect in FEB 86 with a revised DoD instruction to services. Its impact can be profound on individuals, particularly in wartime. The Veterans’ Disability Benefits Commission is studying the effects and its chairman this month sounded an alarm.

The advantages of receiving disability retirement, which requires a 30% or higher disability rating, are great for members with less than 20 years in service. Beside an immediate annuity, disabled retirees and their families gain lifetime access to Tricare, to base shopping privileges and to a host of other perks tied to “retiree” status. Veterans with disability ratings of 0 to 20% receive only a lump-sum severance payment upon discharge. They can apply to the Department of Veterans Affairs for a higher rating and will often get one, which can mean monthly VA compensation and improved access to medical care. But VA care isn’t available to families and VA doesn’t offer base-like support services. Injured war veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan are becoming more aware of the critical 30% threshold. Some credit for that goes to retired Army Lt. Gen. James Terry Scott, chairman of the Veterans' Disability Benefits Commission. Scott spotlighted the value of 30% ratings, and ruffled feathers of DoD officials, before a Senate hearing in mid-APR 07 when he said the higher cost of disability retirement, versus severance pay, gives DoD “a strong incentive” to award 20%or less.

No service does it more often than the Army, according to fresh service data released by Scott. From 2000 through 2006, the Army gave ratings of 30% or higher to only 13% of soldiers deemed disabled. By comparison, the Navy awarded disability retirement to 36% of its disabled members. The Air Force number was 27% and the Marines Corps 18%. More troubling, Scott suggested, was data showing Army awarded a 0% rating to 13,646 soldiers that it found unfit for duty. The Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force had assigned 0 ratings only to 400 apiece. Scott said he wasn’t speaking for the commission which won’t finish its report until fall. But he urged Defense officials to allow the services to begin setting disability awards based on all service-connected disabilities found. To ease rating disparities across the services, and between DoD and VA, he recommended that the VA alone conduct all medical evaluations and set all disability ratings before members leave service.

Col. Andy Buchanan, deputy commander of the Army’s Physical Disability Agency (PDA), said he would quibble with some of the commission’s data but clearly there are troubling disparities in ratings between services that can’t be explained by “mission differences” alone. “I know where we’re different right now, but I have to find out why,” said Buchanan. He has recommended an independent audit of service disability awards to identify the factors creating the service disparities. But Buchanan, in an interview, denied that the PDA or individual evaluation boards operate with any concern for how rating decisions impact Army budgets. The Army does not follow VA criteria to rate every condition. For example, the VA rates some sleep apnea as 50% disabling, higher than the loss of a limb, Buchanan said. Also, unlike the VA, the Army does not presume that every medical condition that surfaces while in service is service-connected. “We’re pretty rigid – and that may be why we’re perceived as stingy -- about following the rules, looking for evidence,” Buchanan said. [Source: Military.com Headlines Tom Philipott article 20 Apr 07 ++]


MILITARY DISABILITY RETIREMENT UPDATE 01: The experience of Army National Guard Spc. Kenneth Parham, 47, shows the impact of the 1986 policy shift on disability awards today. In APR 05, Parham was in the gun turret of a Humvee when it drove over a bomb buried beneath a road outside Kirkuk, Iraq. The explosion tossed his Humvee high into the air. It was Parham’s third contact with an improvised explosive device in five months. This one collapsed a lung, fractured ribs and damaged discs in his neck and back. Today, the once vigorous Parham, who as a civilian drove a moving van and lifted up to 5000 pounds of household goods a day, needs a motorized cart to shop in stores. He has chronic neck and back pain. He must walk slowly, sit frequently and can’t lift more than 20 pounds. Because he can't wear a helmet or carry a rucksack, the Army has found the former Marine unfit for duty. It plans to discharge Parham with a 20% rating and about $40,000 in severance. In late APR, he will travel from his home in Lewiston ID, to Fort Lewis WA to appeal that rating decision before a physical evaluation board. His wife, Cheryl, said a 20% rating is so unjust, given how her husband’s quality of life and job prospects have plummeted. “How’s he going to support himself the rest of his life,” she asked. Service-connected ailments that the Army ignored in setting the 20% figure, she said, include post traumatic stress disorder with nightmares, a weakened leg, the sleep apnea, high-blood pressure and arthritis. [Source: Military.com Headlines Tom Philipott article 20 Apr 07 ++]


RESERVE GI BILL UPDATE 06: A recent Defense Department policy change widens the eligibility window for some Reserve-component troops who want to use their Montgomery G.I. Bill education benefits. The DoD policy now aligns with Department of Veterans Affairs rules, which say National Guard members and reservists are eligible to receive Montgomery G.I. Bill education benefits for the period covering the amount of time they served on active duty, plus four months, said Tom Bush, principal director for manpower and personnel within the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs. After studying the matter over the past few months, DoD agreed to align its policy with the VA’s, Bush said. DoD’s previous policy only recognized the amount of active-duty time as applied to the G.I. Bill coverage period for reserve component members but still required the member to continue to serve in the Selected Reserve.

The change, from the DoD perspective, is that the benefit now can be used by somebody that leaves the selected reserve for the amount of time that they’ve served on active duty, plus four months. Guard and reserve members who attend regular drill training and meetings are considered part of the selected reserve. The total amount of G.I. Bill coverage for reservists is still 36 months, Bush said. “So, if you’ve used part of that (G.I. Bill benefit) it may eat into that 36 months. Reservists normally have 14 years to use their Montgomery G.I. Bill benefits. However, that time might also be extended by the amount of time Guard or Reserve members serve on active duty, plus four months. Senior Guard and Reserve officials, as well as demobilization sites, have been alerted to the policy change.”

About 370,000 Guard and Reserve members on drill or active-duty status have signed up to use Montgomery G.I. Bill benefits since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States. The Reserve Education Assistance Program, established by the 2005 National Defense Authorization Act, is another DoD education initiative for members of the Guard and Reserve. To be eligible, servicemembers must have served at least 90 consecutive days of active service after Sept. 11, 2001, in response to a Presidential or Congressional call-up of military forces for wartime or other emergency service. Guard and Reserve members who served for two continuous years on active duty in support of a contingency operation would qualify for both the Montgomery G.I. Bill and REAP and could select which program they want to use, Servicemembers can determine if they qualify for the Montgomery G.I. Bill and REAP by contacting their local education office. [Source: NAUS Weekly Update 20 Apr 07 ++]


RETIREE OCONUS SURVEY: To learn more about the unique issues facing Navy and Marine Corps retirees who live overseas (OCONUS), the SECNAV Retiree Council has recommended that OCONUS retirees be surveyed to identify and resolve, where possible, these issues. If you are an OCONUS retiree and would like your voice to be heard, registration at https://www.nprstsurveys.com/retiree/register.htm is the first step. For the purposes of this survey, OCONUS refers to those who live overseas, outside the United Sates. It does not include those residing in Hawaii or Alaska. In early MAY 07 email survey invitations will be sent to all confirmed retirees who register on this page. The information below will ONLY be used by Navy Personnel Research, Studies, and Technology (NPRST) to confirm your eligibility for the survey and to send the survey notification email. This information will not be shared with anyone except the research staff working on this project. For additional info refer to MILL_NPRSTsurveys@navy.mil. [Source: https://www.nprstsurveys.com/retiree/register.htm Apr 07 ++]


VA CLAIM BACKLOG UPDATE 05: On 17 APR the Department of Veterans Affairs responded negatively to the four bills pending before Congress to reduce the 600,000-case backlog of veterans’ benefits claims.
- H.R.0067, sponsored by Rep. Mike McIntyre (D-NC), that would allocate $25 million a year — about $1 for each living veteran — to improve veterans’ outreach programs, and would give grants to states to pay for education and training programs for state and local veterans’ agencies.
- H.R.1435, sponsored by Rep. Joe Baca (D-CA) that orders a three-year, five-state test in which benefits claims that are not complete would be referred to a county or municipal office for help developing the claim.
- H.R.1444, would provide a $500 monthly stipend to any veteran who appeals a benefits decision and it takes more than 180 days for a final decision. Sponsored by Rep. John Hall (D-NY), the proposal would allow a veteran whose claim is denied to keep the accumulated payments. A veteran whose claim is approved for a benefit of more than $500 a month would receive the difference, said Hall, chairman of the House Veterans’ Affairs disability assistance and memorial affairs subcommittee where the four bills are pending.
- H.R.1490, sponsored by Reps. Joe Donnelly (D-IN) and Fred Upton (R-MI) which would automatically grant disability benefits claims filed by combat veterans as long as they met minimal requirements, with payments set at the median level for the disability.

Rep. Upton said, “The current system is more than broken, it is shameful. On average, it takes the VA 177 days to process an original claim and 657 days to process an appeal. This delay deprives many veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan of much-needed income at a time in their lives when they are not only learning to cope with a disability but also transitioning into civilian life.” Ronald Augment, the VA’s deputy undersecretary for benefits, said, “The VA opposes the four bills, even though the agency shares many of the bills’ goals. Augment said:

- Hall’s bill H.R.1444 to provide a $500 stipend for delayed benefits would create an incentive to submit claims of dubious merit. And, for veterans whose claims are questionable, it creates a reason for the veterans to delay supplying information and evidence so they can get more money. A claimant’s cooperation with VA can reduce the time it takes to resolve a remand claim. Inversely, a claimant’s lack of cooperation can delay the resolution of a claim.”
- The Donnelly-Upton bill H.R.1490 presents a similar problem. VA is concerned that a presumption of service connection creates an incentive to file invalid claims, especially when benefits would be paid without appropriate claim development. Even if the VA audited 25% of all file claims, an unscrupulous claimant would still have excellent odds of obtaining and retaining benefits.
- The VA opposes the bill H.R.0067 giving grants for veterans’ outreach programs because it doesn’t give enough flexibility to reach veterans in small, rural communities, and because the VA is expanding its existing outreach program.
- Paying county and local veterans agencies to help process claims, the idea in H.R.1435, would take money that ought to be spend by the federal government and apply it to local programs while raising questions about who, ultimately, is responsible for the claim.

The VA was not alone in opposing the bills. Some of the same issues raised by Augment were also noted by Veterans of Foreign Wars and Paralyzed Veterans of America in their testimony before the disability assistance subcommittee. [Source: Military Times Rick Maze article 17 Apr 07 ++]


NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK: More than 88,000 volunteers at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities – who worked 12.5 million hours last year – were recognized across the country in conjunction with National Volunteer Week, April 15-21 by VA Secretary Jim Nicholson. VA has the largest volunteer program in the government and one of the largest in the country. Using a formula developed by a coalition representing hundreds of charities and non-profits, it is estimated that in 2006, VA would have needed more than 6,000 full-time employees to replace the time donated by volunteers. VA estimates the time volunteered to VA equates to nearly $225 million annually. In addition, VA volunteers and their organizations contributed an estimated $54 million in gifts and donations last year. More than 350 national and community organizations support VA’s Voluntary Service program, organized in 1946

Nicholson traveled to Baltimore on 16 APR to present the President’s Volunteer Service Lifetime Achievement Award to Clifford Stoffel, a veteran who contributed more than 4,000 hours of service in the VA Maryland Health Care System as a volunteer with the Disabled American Veterans transportation network at the Glen Burnie, Md., VA Outpatient Clinic. Nicholson also gave awards to other volunteers who have served at the Baltimore VA Rehabilitation and Extended Care Center and regional outpatient clinics. For several years, President Bush has proclaimed National Volunteer Week as a time to thank volunteers for their service and to call the public's attention to what volunteers can do to improve communities. National Volunteer Week is sponsored by the Points of Light Foundation. For information on how to volunteer at a VA facility, contact your local VA hospital or visit www.va.gov. [Source: TREA Washington Update 20 Apr 07 ++]


MILITARY HEALTH CARE TF UPDATE 05: On 18 APR the Task Force on the Future of Military Health Care held its latest public meeting. The witnesses were the Comptroller of the United States (who heads the GAO), executives from MEDCO and Express Scripts and representatives from the United Mine Workers of America’s Health and Retirement Funds. During a full day hearing the witnesses spoke on many subjects. But they were all asked about the effect of co-pays on moving beneficiaries toward using generic drugs and home delivery (mail order). All the witnesses stated that it was the differential between the tiers and distribution points. All of them said that Tricare’s differentials were too small to cause movement. It is looking more and more likely that the Task Force will recommend some change in the pharmacy co-pays and structure. This could affect every Tricare Pharmacy beneficiary who is not using an MTF Pharmacy. [Source: TREA Washington Update 20 Apr 07 ++]


DFAS PAYROLL: On 17 APR the Director of Defense Finance and Accounting Service’s (DFAS) Retired and Annuitant Pay section met with representatives of 5 Veterans and Military Organizations to discuss operations and the future. His presentation noted that his office sends retired pay to 709,943 retirees from the Air Force, 740,133 from the Army, 122,496 from the Marine Corps and 536,435 from the Navy. The oldest Air Force retiree receiving pay is 105.8 years old, the oldest Army retiree is 108.0 years old, the oldest Marine Corp retiree is 100.4 years old, and the oldest Navy retiree is 107.4 years old. Monthly, they also pay 344,676 Annuitants; 17,837 VSI (Voluntary Separation Incentives); 87,007 former spouses; 804 RSSPs (Reserve Special Separation Payment); and 27 VOSs (Victims of Abuse). Its payroll payment per month is over $3 billion! There are presently 54,920 retirees receiving CRSC (Combat Related Special Compensation) 14,374 from the Air Force; 32,479 from the Army; 3,953 from the Marine Corps; and 4,114 from the Navy. There are 200,176 retirees receiving CRDP (Concurrent Receipt Disability Pay) 63,601 from the Air Force; 83,643 from the Army, 12,057 from the Marine Corps; and 40,875 from the Navy. [Source: TREA Washington Update 20 Apr 07 ++]


RESERVE RETIREMENT AGE UPDATE 09: On 18 APR the Senate Armed Services Subcommittees on Personnel, Readiness and Management held a joint hearing on the readiness impact of quality of life and family support programs to assist families of active duty, National Guard, and reserve military personnel. During the course of this hearing, the committee discussed retirement benefits for members of the National Guard and Reserve and Senator Saxby Chambliss (R-GA) provided a statement on his bill, S.0648, The National Guard and Reserve Modernization Act. During his statement, Senator Chambliss noted that “Since September 11, 2001, an annual average of about 60 million duty days have been performed by Reserve Component members – the equivalent of adding over 164,000 personnel to the active strength each year…this represents almost a five-fold increase since the 1990s…” Referring to the cash bonuses now in place to enhance retention, Senator Chambliss said that, despite the effectiveness of these bonuses, he would “much rather motivate behavior over the long-term by providing an early retirement benefit based on continuous service and deployments.” Given that “Guard and Reserve members are the only federal retirees who must wait until age 60 to collect retirement pay,” Senator Chambliss’ bill will reduce the age for receipt of retirement pay by three months for every 90 days a Guard member spends on active duty in support of a contingency operation or while responding to a national emergency since September 11, 2001. Senator Chambliss said that the bill is the right thing to do because Guard members who are called away to duty are “sacrificing their civilian careers, including their retirement benefits.” Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) agreed, calling the bill “a great idea” and further stating that “now is the time to look at the retirement system of the Guard and Reserve.” [Source: NGAUS Leg Up 20 Apr 07 ++]


VA HEFNER MEDICAL CENTER: Responding to reports of inadequacies in surgical services at a North Carolina Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center, a Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations oversight hearing on 19 APR found systemic procedural problems in patient safety and other components of health care management. Many of these problems have since been corrected; others are still a matter of concern. In SEP 04 VA’s Office of Inspector General (IG), because it was working at full capacity, asked the department’s Office of the Medical Inspector (OMI) to investigate an allegation of suspicious deaths in the surgical service at the Hefner VA Medical Center in Salisbury NC. The allegations, made on VA’s hotline that August, alleged that more than 12 deaths of surgical patients had occurred in the last two years. The OMI issued its report in MAR 05, finding serious mishandling of numerous cases and a litany of medical issues not addressed or solutions implemented. The OMI report made 18 recommendations, all accepted by VA’s health under secretary.

In SEP 06, the department’s assistant inspector general, Dr. John Daigh, issued a combined assessment program review of Salisbury, but the team doing the review wasn’t aware of the 2005 OMI report, reducing its effectiveness. Daigh found that improvements had been made, a conclusion shared by Melvin Watt (D-NC) the congressman whose district includes the Salisbury medical center. (Daigh has since ensured that IG staff have full access to OMI reports and refer to them.) Yet, while the problems at Salisbury, largely attributed by both Watt and Salisbury’s current chief of staff to former facility management have been largely corrected, systemic problems persist. Veterans’ Committee Chairman Bob Filner (D-CA) pointedly asked witnesses how VA employees are held accountable. “We’re talking about the deaths of human beings,” he said, decrying a bureaucratic system that impedes critical information from reaching those who have a right to know, such as patient family members, and those who can implement remedies. Aggravating the problem, VA’s “peer review” system, which is supposed to facilitate the critique of clinicians by their peers, seems to be hobbled by fear. When asked if nurses feared that revealing problems with the performance of doctors could cost them their jobs, Daigh admitted the existence of such problems in some VA locations. The lack of information to patients and to the general public in the wake of such reviews appears to be a systemic weakness within the department. Subcommittee member Brian Bilbray (R-CA), expressing concern shared by many in the subcommittee, urged VA to do a better job of providing information as quickly as possible. [Source: House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Press Release 19 Apr 07 ++]


VA RURAL ACCESS: The House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Health held a hearing 18 APR on veterans’ access to health care. Testimony focused on the ability of veterans to access care through Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs) and in rural communities. “Rural has always responded to our nation’s call for military service. Unfortunately, as these veterans return home, they too often experience difficulty accessing VA care because they must travel long distances to VA facilities,” said subcommittee member Jerry Moran (R-KS). “These veterans should not be penalized because of where they live. We must provide rural veterans the health care benefits they have earned.” The National Rural Health Association, Disabled American Veterans and The American Legion provided testimony supporting the use of CBOCs as a way to provide care in non-metropolitan areas. Dr. Gerald Cross, acting principal deputy under secretary for health, told the subcommittee that VA’s telehealth programs are being used as a way to bring care closer to veterans. Specifically, Cross’ testimony stated, “Care coordination/home telehealth programs are well established in all 21 Veterans Integrated Service Networks and currently care for 24,921 patients.” Public Law 109-461 required the creation of an Office of Rural Health within VA. Cross said the “mission of the office is to promulgate policies, best practices and innovations to improve services who reside in rural areas of the U.S.” The subcommittee also heard testimony from Dr. Marcia Brand, associate administrator for rural health policy for the Health Resources Services Administration of the U.S Department of Health and Human Services. Brand urged collaboration between VA and community health centers, as “effective coordination is especially critical in rural communities, where services and providers are limited and resources are scarce.” [Source: House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Press Release 19 Apr 07 ++]


NARHA VETERANS PROGRAM: The North American Riding for the Handicapped Association, Inc. (NARHA) plans to develop a nationwide program for America’s wounded service personnel and veterans. At a 1 APR meeting of the organization’s board of trustees, committees and membership representatives NARHA established Horses For Heroes. A task force was formed to develop the program, pilot the methods to be used, educate member instructors, and monitor any services provided through NARHA’s nationwide centers. NARHA promotes equine assisted activities at more than 700 member centers in the U.S. and Canada, helping individuals with special needs gain greater independence through their involvement with horses. Based on the success of recent pilot programs at Ft. Hood TX, and Ft. Myer VA where the United State Army’s 3rd Infantry Regiment Caisson Platoon is headquartered, NARHA wants to use the lessons learned to prepare local centers for these service personnel as they return to their home communities. The Horses For Heroes task force will oversee and facilitate the orderly development of appropriate equine assisted activities, such as therapeutic riding and driving, as well as equine facilitated psychotherapy, tailored specifically to the needs of service personnel and veterans.

NARHA’s Chief Executive Officer, Sheila Kemper Dietrich, met recently with many program heads at the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) in Washington, DC, after Secretary R. James Nicholson personally visited with the program conducted with the Caisson Platoon. NARHA’s national leadership in Horses For Heroes will create a primary point of contact for therapeutic riding centers, potential veteran or service personnel clients, interested health service providers, and for developing the financial resources to support the program. Kemper Dietrich is already negotiating with the DVA to create a Memorandum of Understanding between the two organizations. Despite the overwhelming desire of many NARHA centers to help, Horses For Heroes will need to be properly funded, and it is hoped that it will ultimately be furnished with a DVA reimbursement code, just as for other forms of treatment. [Source: The HorseTV Channel News, http://www.horsetv.com Apr 07 ++]


WWII MERCHANT MARINE BILL: The ranking member of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, Steve Buyer (R-IN), made the following remarks on 18 APR during a legislative committee hearing on H.R.0023, the Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2007. The bill would provide a benefit of $1,000 per month to World War II veterans of the U.S. Merchant Marine and their surviving spouses. Supporters of this bill argue that the payment compensates these veterans for their inability to use G.I. Bill benefits in the years after the war. His remarks provide a good summary of actions to date on compensating mariners who contributed so much to the war effort:

“We are here today to discuss a question of equity: whether it is equitable to pay Merchant Marine veterans of World War II a “thank-you” payment for their service during the war. Anyone with even a passing acquaintance with the contributions of these mariners to the war effort cannot doubt their bravery. During the early war years, through 1942, more allied merchant ships were being sunk than built; yet they sailed on and their cargoes helped keep our allies fighting while America prepared to exert its full and irresistible force. The law recognizes two groups of Merchant Mariners; those who served before the Japanese surrender in August 1945, and those who joined after that date. As of 17 JAN 88, Merchant Mariners who served between the start of the war on 7 DEC 4, and the surrender of Japan on 15 AUG 45, receive full veterans’ benefits and status. The granting of veterans status was made possible by the G.I. Bill Improvement Act of 1977, Public Law 95-202.

The law also created an administrative process by which civilian or contract employees could apply to the Secretary of Defense for veteran status to obtain VA benefits. The Secretary in turn designated the Secretary of the Air Force to be DoD’s executive agent to administer the process. The first group of Merchant Mariners have access to VA health care. They also have access to disability compensation and pension, loan guarantee, education, insurance, and burial and death benefits. On 10 OCT 98, the House passed H.R. 4110, the Veterans Programs Enhancements Act of 1998, which was signed into law on 11 NOV 98. This bipartisan bill gave limited benefits to the post-surrender group of Merchant Mariners who served between 16 AUG 45, and 31 DEC 46. The bill provided eligibility for burial benefits and interment in a national cemetery.

Before us today is the discussion of H.R. 23, which is entitled a “Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II.” This bill would give $1,000 per month, tax free, to Merchant Mariners [including those whose service occurred between 16 AUG 45, and 31 DEC 46] and their surviving spouses. Mr. Chairman, this equates to giving these veterans a non service-connected pension regardless of their income, something we do not do for other veterans with one exception. The only other group of veterans who receive such a pension are recipients of the Medal of Honor. I must point out that H.R.0023 has no provision to pay for the benefits offered under the bill. That means this bill cannot pass unless this committee finds the offsets or Chairman Spratt of the Budget Committee provides new funding. Yesterday, CBO estimated the bill at a cost of $40 million the first years and $2.9 billion over ten years.

In short, thank-you funds for Merchant Mariners do not exist. And if equity is truly your objective, I am curious why we are not also - following your line of reasoning - discussing similar payments to the 32 other World War I and II civilian groups that received veterans status under P.L. 95-202. Consider the Women’s Airforce Service Pilots, the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps, the famed Flying Tigers and all the other groups which gained their status decades after their service. They served loyally, selflessly, and courageously. Their service contributed directly to victory in 1945. Yet this bill does nothing for them. The 2006 edition of Federal Benefits for Veterans and Dependents contains a complete list of these groups beginning on page 64. Mr. Chairman, you have also promised to pay certain Filipino veterans of World War II hundreds of millions of dollars from a 2008 budget reserve that in fact has no money in it. Yet, these honorable, aging veterans of the war in the Pacific, as well as their wives, believe in good faith they will shortly receive thousands of dollars each. But will they?” [Source: Rep. Steve Buyer Press Release 18 Apr 07 ++]


Depleted Uranium Update 03: The use of Depleted Uranium (DU) in our instruments of war continues to be a controversial issue for many Americans. Health and environmental effects of depleted uranium are currently at the heart of scientific studies, a lawsuit in the New York courts and legislative bills in more than a dozen states. While the military continues to deny the connection of depleted uranium to sicknesses plaguing returning servicemen and women, a newly mandated study is just getting under way. This started with a House amendment authored and introduced by Rep. Jim McDermott (D-WA.) ordering a comprehensive Study with a report due in one year on possible adverse health effects on U.S. soldiers from the U.S. military's use of DU. A Senate companion bill backed by Joe Lieberman of Conn., also supported the need for a study allowing passage of the bill which the president to signed into law OCT 06.

The new study which began in MAR 07 follows several that have been completed by the military into depleted uranium, a byproduct left when enriched uranium is separated out for use in nuclear power and atomic weapons. The Department of Energy gives it to arms makers, where its extreme density is valuable in the manufacture of armor and casings. When used shell casings vaporize on impact and spread a uranium dust that some veterans of recent wars suspect has left them with cancers, respiratory disease or kidney problems. A 1996 U.N. resolution opposed its use because of discovery of health problems after the first Gulf War. However, the military studies have concluded there was no evidence that exposure to the metal caused illnesses.

To the military, the effectiveness of weapons and armor made with depleted uranium is a valuable asset. Their bottom line: Depleted uranium saves soldiers’ lives in combat. Robert Holloway, president of Nevada Technical Associates Inc., a firm that specializes in radiation safety training, disputes any concern over DU use. Holloway and others who believe depleted uranium is safe to use say the best authority in the scientific community would be individuals connected to the Health Physics Society (HPS) http://hps.org. Doug Craig of Ponce Inlet, a retired radiation biophysics scientist, is such a person. He doesn’t believe low doses of radiation from depleted uranium are a problem. “Uranium occurs in a lot of places,” Craig said, “and man has been exposed to low concentrations of uranium for a long time.” The position of HPS is that DU emits a short-range radiation that can penetrate the protective layer of the skin and has the potential to cause some skin damage if the exposure continues for extended periods of time (months or years). It would be unacceptable to wear jewelry or make tokens or coins from uranium metal because of the possible extended exposure of the skin or lens of the eye to beta radiation from pure metallic uranium.

Despite a precedent that prevents military personnel from suing the government for injuries resulting from their service, eight National Guard veterans have won the right to be heard at a trial in New York, about their depleted uranium exposure. Many think there will not be enough known until a sufficient number of soldiers are tested for exposure. The National Academies in 2000 studied depleted uranium and Gulf War veterans and said there was insufficient evidence to link it to lymphatic or bone cancer, noncancerous respiratory disease, and illnesses of the nervous system and liver. But the academies recommended more study. In addition to the ongoing federal study more than a dozen states have introduced legislation to track veterans who have DU exposure. Connecticut was the first to pass a bill aimed at helping their National Guard personnel returning from Iraq. The most recent action in this area was on 5 APR when a Minnesota Senate panel approved a proposal to spend $1 million to test more than 800 of their veterans for exposure. The Minnesota state House is advancing a similar proposal to fund sophisticated testing of veterans who feel they are suffering health problems resulting from exposure. [Source: Daytona Beach News Journal Audrey Parente article 15 Apr 07 ++]


TALKING BOOK PROGRAM: The talking book program is a library service available to U.S. residents, or American citizens living abroad, who have low vision, blindness, or a physical disability that makes reading a standard printed page difficult. Through a national network of regional libraries, the National Library Service (NLS) mails books and magazines in Braille and on cassette, along with audio playback equipment, directly to enrollees at no cost. In the lending of books, recordings, playback equipment, musical scores, instructional texts, and other specialized materials, preference shall be given at all times to the needs of the blind and other physically handicapped persons who have been honorably discharged from the armed forces of the United States. The reading materials and playback equipment for the use of blind and physically handicapped persons may be loaned to individuals who qualify, to institutions such as nursing homes and hospitals, and to schools for the blind or physically handicapped for the use by such persons only. The reading materials and playback equipment may also be used in public or private schools where handicapped students are enrolled; however, the students in public or private schools must be certified as eligible on an individual basis and must be the direct and only recipients of the materials and equipment.

By enabling people to read independently, the program has become a lifeline to many vision-impaired readers, including seniors with vision difficulties due to age-related conditions such as macular degeneration and glaucoma. Talking book clubs, offered through NLS regional and sub-regional libraries, provide patrons with the opportunity to discuss the books they have read and to share their love of reading with others. Talking book clubs are open to readers of all ages. Many of the 132 cooperating libraries across the U.S. host summer reading clubs for young patrons and participate in NLS’s national “102 Talking-Book Club,” which honors people age 100+ for their lifelong devotion to reading. Readers who are unable to attend NLS talking book club meetings can often participate by telephone or computer. Online-only clubs are also available, allowing NLS patrons nationwide to connect with other sighted and visually impaired book lovers—without leaving home. Talking book clubs expose patrons to new materials, broadening their appetites for literature, expanding their imaginations and encouraging them to pursue new pastimes with a collection of more than 400,000 titles, including the latest bestsellers, classics, biographies, romances, mysteries, and westerns.

The following persons are eligible for service:
- Blind persons whose visual acuity, as determined by competent authority, is 20/200 or less in the better eye with correcting lenses, or whose widest diameter of visual field subtends an angular distance no greater than 20 degrees.
- Persons whose visual disability, with correction and regardless of optical measurement, is certified by competent authority as preventing the reading of standard printed material.
- Persons certified by competent authority as unable to read or unable to use standard printed material as a result of physical limitations.
- Persons certified by competent authority as having a reading disability resulting from organic dysfunction and of sufficient severity to prevent their reading printed material in a normal manner.

For more information on how to join, locating participating libraries, and how to order materials online refer to www.loc.gov/nls/eligible.html or call 1(888) 657-7324. [Source: About Senior Living 16 Apr 07 ++]


MILITARY DIVORCE STUDY: Despite greatly increased stress on the U.S. armed forces since the start of military operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, divorce rates among military families have increased only gradually, according to a RAND Corporation study issued recently. After several years of decline, marital dissolutions among military members began increasing in 2001, according to a study by the nonprofit research organization that analyzed records from about 6 million men and women who served in the U.S. military during the past 10 years. The steady increase in divorce, separations and annulments increased the rate of military breakups to about 3% annually in 2005. The same level observed in 1996 when soldiers did not routinely face the battlefield deployments that are common today. Researchers examined overall trends in the breakup of military marriages and the specific effects of deployment to Iraq and Afghanistan. Contrary to expectations, married service members who had been deployed were generally less likely to end their marriages than those who had not been deployed, and longer deployments were associated with greater reductions in risk.

The study found no spike in marital breakups among members of the military, including those who have been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. It also found that although military families face high levels of stress, it has not resulted in similarly high rates of divorce thus far. The researchers noted that although deployments are undeniably stressful for couples, deployments may also benefit families in some ways, such as providing higher earnings from combat pay and the potential for career advancement. The military also provides other forms of support to military families such as health care, child care, and housing subsidies that may offer some protection from the negative effects of stress. The full impact of these conflicts on military families may not be known for years. The RAND study was requested by Pentagon officials in response to reports that the stress caused by deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan were leading to a surge in divorce among members of the military. Other findings of the study include:

- In every service of the military, female service members are more than twice as likely to end their marriages as their male peers. The marriages of female service members also benefit significantly less from being deployed.
- Enlisted service members are more likely to end their marriages than officers. This is mostly likely due to the fact that officers tend to be older, and older couples are generally less likely to end their marriages.
- Marriage rates and divorce rates in the military have followed a similar pattern over the last decade, with more service members getting married in recent years.
- The analyses revealed similar trends in marriage and divorce across the services, and within the active and reserve components.

The RAND findings are similar to those from previous research that has examined earlier conflicts. Studies of married service members who served in Vietnam found no link between deployment and divorce. A study of the 1991 Persian Gulf War found that women who served were significantly more likely to divorce, but found no such trend among men. The report was produced by the RAND National Defense Research Institute, which conducts research and analysis for sponsors including the Office of the Secretary of Defense, defense agencies and the U.S. intelligence community. The report, “Families Under Stress: An Assessment of Data, Theory, and Research on Marriage and Divorce in the Military,” is available at http://www.rand.org/pubs/monographs/MG599/. [Source: Rand News Release 12 Apr 07 ++]


COOL BLUE LISTERINE RECALL: Commissaries have been directed to remove from their shelves all bottles of Listerine Agent Cool-Blue Plaque-Detecting Rinse in the Glacier Mint flavor due to a voluntary recall by the manufacturer, McNeil-PPC, Inc. The product has been found to be inadequate against certain microorganisms. Commissary customers who have this product at home are asked to return it to the store from which they purchased it for a full refund. Any unused portions of the product should not be consumed. For additional information about the recall, contact McNeil-PPC’s consumer line at 1(888) 222-0249 or access the product Web site at http://www.agentcoolblue.com/. Mail-in rebates should include the back label and the UPC code (012547-44565). [Source: DeCA News Release 34-07 Apr 07]


FILIPINO VET INEQUITIES UPDATE 01: U.S. Senator Larry Craig thanked Filipino veterans who fought alongside U.S. troops during World War II during a hearing held 12 APR and said he would work to help improve the benefits they receive. Many of them had come to Washington, D.C., to participate in and witness firsthand a hearing held by the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. “Your service is undeniable. It is historical fact. Victory in the Pacific would not have been assured without that help,” said Craig (R-ID), the Ranking Member of the Committee. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has maintained a Regional Office in the Philippines since 1921 and currently operates a medical clinic near the capital city of Manila. For information on this office refer to www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/Foreign/pimed.htm. It is the only VA facility located outside of the United States. A new VA clinic will soon be built there as part of the U.S. plan to build a new embassy, which is scheduled to be completed in 2010.

The Manila VA clinic provides services to over 13,000 American veterans living in the Philippines, as well medical care for the “Philippine Scouts”. These are native Filipinos who served in the U.S. Army’s Philippine Department beginning in 1901 and on through World War II who already receive the same benefits as other U.S. veterans. But Craig said he will not support a new legislative proposal S.0057 in its current form which would grant full VA benefits to those who served in the Philippine Commonwealth Army and to another group known as the New Philippine Scouts. “While Filipino veterans were certainly U.S. nationals at the time of the war, a fact which heightens our obligation to them, they were also on a path to full independence as members of a sovereign nation. Yes, they fought for U.S. interests against a common enemy. But they also fought for their own homeland. As such, I believe that the governments of the Philippines and the United States collectively share responsibility for the care of these veterans,” Craig said.

The Philippine government pays approximately $100 per month to its veterans who served during World War II. But if the U.S. began paying those veterans, the Philippine government would offset that nation’s $100 monthly payment. “I find that unacceptable. I am interested in improving benefits to Filipino veterans, not in merely shifting funding obligations from one nation’s taxpayers to the other,” Craig said. The Congressional Budget Office estimates the cost of S.0057 at $1 billion over a ten year period, while VA officials estimate the cost could be as high as $4 billion over the same time frame. “In times of budget deficits and with wounded coming back from Iraq and Afghanistan, we need to meet the needs of current tax payers and heroes of the present, while working to honor those who, so many years ago, fought alongside us in the cause of freedom,” Craig said. [Source: Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Jeff Schrade article 16 Apr 07 ++]


IRS DATA BREACH: After undergoing its own audit, the government has reported that the IRS lost 490 computers between 2003 and 2006, and is not adequately protecting sensitive taxpayer information. The Treasury's Inspector General said in his report last month that the IRS is not only losing hundreds of computers and storage devices, but is failing to encrypt data and is using weak passwords. The audit also reported that because of the missing computers, personal information was compromised for at least 2,359 U.S. taxpayers, but the total can't be calculated because records do not list what information was stored on many of the machines. "As a result, it is likely that sensitive data for a significant number of taxpayers have been unnecessarily exposed to potential identity theft and/or other fraudulent schemes," said Michael R. Phillips, deputy inspector general, in the report. He added that he believes it is very likely that a large number of the missing computers contain sensitive, unencrypted information.

The IRS, which has 100,000 employees, annually handles 220 million tax returns, which contain personal financial and identifying information, like addresses and Social Security numbers. The agency has issued 47,000 laptops to employees. The report showed that it was unclear what information was on many of the missing computers and if any of it had been encrypted. Phillips, however, said his investigators did their own analysis of 100 laptops currently in use and 44 of them contained unencrypted, sensitive data on taxpayers and agency employees. According to the report, 15 of those 44 laptop computers with unencrypted data had security weaknesses, such as weak passwords and user names, which also could be exploited. "As a result, we believe it is very likely a large number of the lost or stolen IRS computers contained similar unencrypted data"

Phillips wrote, "Employees did not follow encryption procedures because they were either unaware of security requirements, did so for their own convenience, or did not know their own personal data were considered sensitive. We also found other computer devices, such as flash drives, CDs, and DVDs, on which sensitive data were not always encrypted." Phillips noted that a 2003 audit found similar problems but the IRS has not taken corrective actions to secure critical data. According to the report IRS employees are allowed to take computers holding taxpayer information, out of the agency's offices. A "large number" of laptops were reported stolen from employees' vehicles and homes. Just as sobering, 111 of the missing computer incidents occurred inside IRS offices. The agency has reported losing an increasing number of computers every year since 2003. The report is part of the government's annual 2006 Audit Plan. For more info on e report refer to http://www.treas.gov/tigta/auditreports ... 0048fr.pdf. [Source: Information Week Sharon Gaugin article 5 Apr 07 ++]


SSA DATA BREACH: A former Social Security Administration employee surrendered to federal authorities 12 APR to face charges of illegally disclosing

[boardman]

RAO Bulletin Update 15 May 2007


THIS BULLETIN UPDATE CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING ARTICLES:

== VA NSLI ------------------------------------ (Paid Up Benefit)
== Navy Reserve Bonus -------------------------------- (Up to $20,000)
== Mobilized Reserve 9 MAY 07 ---------------- (Net Increase 1117)
== Awards Replacement ------------------------------- (Where to Write)
== SAMHSA -------------------------------------------- (New Web Page)
== GI Bill [15] ---------------------------- (Cost Gap Increasing)
== Veteran Presence Diminishing --------------- (Demographic Shifts)
== AFRH Gulfport [04] ---------------------- (Reopening March 2010)
== PTSD [14] ------------------------ (VA Policies Problematic)
== Veteran Legislation 2007 [01] ------------- ($80 Billion Price Tag)
== DFAS myPay System [04] ---------------- (New Security Measure)
== Vacation Travel Cost ----------------------- (Car vs. Airline)
== DoD Millennium Cohort Study --------------------- (21 Year Study)
== VA OIF/OEF Advisory Committee ---------- (Committee Formed)
== Vet Cemetery Florida [05] ------------ (Sarasota Opening Fall 08)
== DoD to VA Transition [05] ---------------------------- (No Date Set)
== DoD to VA Transition [06] ------------- (16th Hearing Comments)
== Rental Car Age Restriction ------------------------ (Age 70 & Over)
== Indiana Vet Initiatives [01] -------------- (Signed Into Law)
== SSA COLA 2008 -------------------------------- (Lowest in History)
== VA Claim Backlog [07] ----------------------------- (125 Day Goal)
== Vet Organization Bingo -------------------- (Instant Bingo)
== Homeless Vet Stand Down ------------------- (LA Statewide Event)
== Pneumonia Vaccinations ------------------- (Covered By Medicare)
== Army Retiree Council [01] ---------------- (Retiree Council Issues)
== NDAA 2008 [01] ----------------------------------- (Progress Report)
== VA Vet Centers [01] --------------------- (Staffing Shortfalls)
== GI Bill [14] -------------------------------- (10-year Deadline)
== WRAMC [09] ----------------------------- (Gates Supports Closing)
== Tricare/CHAMPUS Fraud [06] -------------- ($40 million Lawsuit)
== Gulf War Syndrome [02] --------------------- (Brain Size Findings)
== VA Bonuses ------------------------------------ (Amount Questioned)
== VA Bonuses [01] ----------------------- (Secretary Asked to Resign)
== SGLI [07] ------------------------------- (Beneficiary Options)
== Tricare Pharmacy Copay [01] ------- Increase Impact on Savings)
== VA Chiropractic Care [02] ---------------------- (H.R.1470)
== VA Data Breach [33] ----------------------------------- (GAO Report)
== Emergency Contraception -------------------------------- (H.R. 2064)
== DoD to VA Transition [04] ----------------------- (New Legislation)
== COLA 2008 [04] -------------------------------- (0.8% thru MAR 07)
== VA Rural Access [01] -------------------------- (Legislation Review)
== USO ---------------------------------------- (New DC Airport Lounge)
== SDVI [01] ---------------------------------- (New Legislation)
== AL Dependents' Scholarship Program ----------- (Started OCT 47)
== Insurrection Act ---------------------------- (S.513 to Repeal)
== National Veterans Wheelchair Games ---------------- (19 - 23 JUN)
== Eat More, Stay Thin ---------------------------- (What to Do)
== Email Addressing ------------------------------- (Bcc Use)
== Veteran Legislation Status 14 May 07 ----------- (Where we stand)

Editor’s Note: Attached is a listing of veteran legislation with current cosponsor status that has been introduced in the 110th Congress. To see any of these bills passed into law representatives need input from their veteran constituents to instruct them on how to vote.


VA NSLI: The VA has offered numerous forms of life insurance going back to 1914. One of them is the National Service Life Insurance (NSLI) policy, which was available from 1940 to 1951. In 1984, Congress passed a law to cap the premiums of this policy at the age-70 rates. Once you turned 70, your premiums never increased. Since September 2000, a capped NSLI term policy will receive a termination dividend if the policy lapses, or if the policyholder voluntarily cancels their policy. The termination dividend will be used to purchase paid-up additional whole life insurance. Not covered in the handbook is the fact the policy is considered paid-up at age 101, per VA counselors. If you are paying premiums at the capped age 70 rates, the termination dividend with paid-up whole life option may offer you the opportunity to stop paying premiums and maintain some coverage. However, you must call the VA to determine the amount of paid-up whole life you qualify for, which may or may not cover your needs. Furthermore, the paid-up benefit will not equal $10,000. Call the VA at 1(800) 669-8477 to talk about your specific case. For more information on NSLI and all other VA life insurances, refer to VA Life Insurance handbook. [Source: MOAA http://moaa.org/Services May 07 ++]


NAVY RESERVE BONUS: The Navy Reserve expects to begin paying bonuses within the next few months to encourage reservists to transition to deployment-intensive ratings as part of an effort to shift the reserve component to a more expeditionary footing — and that should mean significantly longer mobilizations for most reservists in coming years. The Navy Reserve announced in March that it will pay bonuses of up to $20,000 to people who sign up for six-year hitches and $10,000 for those who sign up for three-year commitments in 15 deployment-intensive ratings. Bonuses for civilians who go directly into the Navy Reserve are being paid for several Seabee ratings, hospital corpsmen, intelligence specialists and masters at arms. Bonuses for sailors leaving active duty are being paid for those ratings, plus for divers, linguists and SEALs. But bonuses are not available to current reservists who want to switch to these ratings. That should change soon.

Lt. Adam Bashaw, spokesman for the Navy Reserve Forces Command, confirmed that a decision is pending on paying bonuses to entice reservists to switch to deployment-intensive ratings, but he declined to speculate on the amount of bonuses that will be paid, the ratings they will be paid for, or the date the bonuses will be approved. The bonuses are needed, advocates said, because lengthy mobilizations have put pressure on reservists’ professional and family lives. Of the 10 most mobilized ratings in the Navy Reserve in 2006, all but three (storekeeper, information systems technician and boatswain’s mate) net bonuses for people off the street and those coming from active duty. Vice Adm. John G. Cotton, chief of the Navy Reserve, said that within six years, he expects there to be 50,000 sailors assigned to Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, the group to which a large percentage of deployment-intensive ratings belongs. About half of those will be reservists, Cotton said.

Navy active duty retention bonuses in critical rates are also becoming more lucrative. For example, effective 1 MAY active-duty SEAL officers who hold the unrestricted line designator 1130 or the limited-duty officer designator 6150 can apply for up to a $125,000 bonus provided they have:
- No remaining obligated service; and
- If a SEAL unrestricted line officer completed at least 15, but not more than 25, years of active commissioned service; and
- If a SEAL limited duty officer have served at least 10 years, but not more than 20 years of commissioned service; and
- Completed an executive officer tour and been assigned the additional qualification designator as being executive officer qualified.
The bonus is designed to improve retention in special warfare officers in pay grades O-4 through O-6. [Source: NavyTimes Chris Amos article 11 May 07 ++]


MOBILIZED RESERVE 9 MAY 07: The Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard announced the current number of reservists on active duty as of 9 MAY 07 in support of the partial mobilization. The net collective result is 1117 more reservists mobilized than last reported for 25 APR 07. Total number currently on active duty in support of the partial mobilization for the Army National Guard and Army Reserve is 64,005; Navy Reserve, 5,859; Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, 5,886; Marine Corps Reserve, 5,356; and the Coast Guard Reserve, 302. This brings the total National Guard and Reserve personnel, who have been mobilized, to 81,408, including both units and individual augmentees. At any given time, services may mobilize some units and individuals while demobilizing others, making it possible for these figures to either increase or decrease. A cumulative roster of all National Guard and Reserve personnel, who are currently mobilized, can be found at http://www.defenselink.mil/news/May2007 ... 509ngr.pdf . [Source: DoD News Release 9 May 07 ++]


AWARDS REPLACEMENT: Retirees who have lost medals or decorations, or never received ones they earned, may request them at any time. The government will generally replace lost or destroyed decorations for service or valor at no cost. There may be a charge for campaign ribbons and badges. At www.thestrelz.com/mildec.htm you can view decorations and ribbons, Army right breast pocket ribbons for citations and commendations, specialty and staff badges for each service, U S Merchant Marine ribbons, plus State and Other Foreign Decorations. Former service members and the survivors of deceased veterans can obtain replacement medals or make appeals by writing to their respective service below. For Air Force (including Army Air Corps) and Army personnel, the National Personnel Records Center will verify the awards to which a veteran is entitled and forward the request with the verification to the appropriate service department for issuance of the medals. The Standard Form (SF 180), Request Pertaining to Military Records is recommended for requesting medals and awards. This form can be downloaded in PDF format at http://www.archives.gov/veterans/milita ... m-180.html.

Air Force: National Personnel Records Center, Air force Reference Branch NRPMF, 9700 Page Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63132-5100. For appeals or problems write to Headquarters Air Force Personnel Ctr, AFPC/DPPPR, 550 C Street West, Suite 12, Randolph AFB, TX 78150-4714.

Army: National Personnel Records Center, Medals Section (NRPMA-M), 9700 Page Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63132-5100. Send appeals to: Commander PERSCOM, Attn: TAPC-PDO-PA, 200 Stovall Street, Alexandria, VA 22332-0471

Navy: Bureau of Naval Personnel, Liaison Office Room 5409, 9700 Page Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63132-5100. For appeals or problems write to Chief of Naval Operations, (OPNAV 09B33), Awards & Special Projects, Washington, DC 20350-2000.

Marine Corps: Bureau of Naval Personnel, Liaison Office Room 5409, 9700 Page Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63132-5100. For appeals or problems write to Commandant of the Marine Corps, Military Awards Branch (MMMA), 3280 Russell Road, Quantico VA 22134-5100.

Coast Guard: Bureau of Naval Personnel, Liaison Office Room 5409, 9700 Page Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63132-5100. For appeals or problems write to Commandant U.S. Coast Guard, Medals and Awards Branch (PMP-4), Washington, DC 20593-0001

Your letter should include as much of the following information as possible:
Full name
Social Security Account Number and Former Service Numbers if any
Date and place of Birth
Inclusive dates in the service
Complete Mailing Address
Telephone & Fax Number plus Email address (if you have one)

Make it easy for them to contact you, the easier the better. Be sure and include a copy of your DD214 and/or Separation Documents plus any other documents germane to your request. Indicate what you are looking for in the way of an award or correction regarding an award in your letter. If it is for corrections spell it out. Highlight the error on a copy of the related document and in your letter include what you think it should be. On medals and campaign ribbons if you are not sure indicate that you believe an award is indicated for a specific time frame and place of service and that you feel you qualify. Ask that your records be reviewed for additional unit or individual awards and decorations not reflected on the enclosed DD Form 214, or DD 215 correction of the DD Form 214, and issuance of a complete replacement set of awards and decorations. The more information you provide them the easier it is for them to verify and award you the ribbon. If your information is lengthy then put it on another sheet of paper and reference it in your letter. Be sure and put your full name, SSN and date on that sheet at the top and bottom. Upon receipt NPRC pulls the records, attaches the request and sends the case to AFPC to work. Veterans should be prepared to wait at least four-six months for a response. Any request for changes to a DD Form 214 should be accompanied by the necessary documents to substantiate the claim. [Source: TREA News Flash 10 May 07 ++]


SAMHSA: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is a public health agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. The agency is responsible for improving the accountability, capacity and effectiveness of the nation's substance abuse prevention, addictions treatment, and mental health services delivery system. A new section of the SAMHSA website at http://www.samhsa.gov has been launched for veterans and their families. The site provides critical information on prevention, treatment and recovery support for mental and substance use disorders. Publications, fact sheets, and links to relevant agencies are provided along with information on SAMHSA-funded programs, agency activities, and training and technical assistance opportunities. Individuals seeking substance use and mental health services can easily find information about local programs by using SAMHSA’s treatment facility locator.

On 10 MAY SAMHSA convened a meeting with the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Defense and veterans’ service organizations to better understand the needs and to identify ways local community-based substance abuse and mental health service organizations can best be prepared to assist veterans and their families. The discussion will help inform the development of guidance materials for states, local communities, and providers to ensure a coordinated approach to providing mental health and substance use services. For more information refer to Resources for Returning Veterans and Their Families at http://www.samhsa.gov/vets/ . [Source: SAMHSA Press Office 10 May 07 ++]


GI BILL UPDATE 15: The GI Bill which once covered nearly the entire cost of a veteran's college expenses continues to fall further behind the soaring price of higher education. Despite several attempts by Congress to boost benefits in past decades, the gap has grown so large that many veterans are forced to take out sizable student loans. The maximum GI Bill amount a currently enrolled veteran who served on active duty can qualify for during a college career is roughly $38,700. But for many students, that is not nearly enough to pay for tuition, room, board and books. And the GI Bill covers only four years of school, leaving veterans on their own if they take longer to graduate The average cost of one year's tuition, room and board at four-year public institutions in 2006-07 was $12,796, according to the College Board. For private schools, the one-year cost was $30,367. Tuition and fees at all schools have risen 35% in the past five years, while the highest GI Bill monthly payout has increased only 20% since 2002. Big student loans are not uncommon among college students in general; the average graduate now leaves school with $19,000 in loans.

Congress has boosted the GI benefit several times since its inception - the last a $9 billion, 10-year increase passed in 2001 that even then was criticized as too small to keep up with soaring costs. Some lawmakers want to try again. Legislation in the House and Senate would make National Guard and Reserve troops, who are relied on heavily in Iraq and Afghanistan, eligible for the same GI Bill payments as active-duty personnel. Currently, Guard members and reservists receive a much lower educational benefit. A bill sponsored by Sen. Jim Webb (D-VA), a former Marine and Navy secretary, would pay the entire tuition, room and board of veterans and provide them with a monthly stipend of $1,000. Webb touted the bill 9 MAY in the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs, saying it would help boost recruiting, ease the transition of returning soldiers and raise the quality of life for veterans. The legislation is backed by several veterans groups..

To enroll, troops must buy in to the program. Their pay is reduced by $1,200 during the first year of service, and then they must serve their full enlistment period. Those who serve three years or more are eligible for the full benefit of $1,075 per month. Some may qualify for additional money provided by each military branch, known as a GI Bill ``kicker.'' The Department of Veterans Affairs, which administers the program, distributed $2.76 billion in education aid to 498,123 people last year. While that amount is substantial, it falls short of original program's scope. President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the GI Bill, officially called the Servicemen's Readjustment Act, in 1944, largely to keep millions of demobilized World War II soldiers from flooding the job market. By 1956, 7.8 million servicemen had used the benefit for either college or vocational training. Veterans initially received about $500 per year, which was then enough to pay for tuition, room and books at most colleges. [Source: Associated Press Stephen Manning article 10 May 07 ++]


VETERAN PRESENCE DIMINISHING: Veterans make up a shrinking part of American society. As the generations that fought World War II, Korea, and Vietnam fade away, there is no cohort of twenty and thirty something draftees to take their place. About 2.5 million Americans serve today in uniform which is 0.84% of the total population and 2.83% of people of draft age. As their numbers shrink, these military folk are concentrating themselves in geographically insular parts of the country, going to live near the largest military bases in the South and Midwest. These demographic shifts have a profound effect and result in Americans having little or no personal contact with the military. [Source: Slate Magazine Phillip Carter article 9 May 07 ++]


AFRH GULFPORT UPDATE 04: The rebuilding project of the Armed Forces Retirement Home (AFRH), Gulfport, is underway. General Services Administration (GSA) officials met with the AFRH management team in February to officially kick off the AFRH Gulfport Rebuild Project. GSA was appointed by Congress to take the lead in the demolition, design and construction of a new facility to replace the existing structure that suffered extensive damage from Hurricane Katrina. Demolition of the damaged facility is slated to begin in late July. $240 million has been designated and transferred to GSA for this project. Nearly half of the 560 residents living at the Gulfport AFRH at the time of the hurricane relocated to the sister campus in Washington, DC. Some have permanently settled into their new surroundings but most of the South Mississippi veterans are looking forward to returning to Gulfport when the home reopens in March 2010 and are already on a list for returning residents.

For those considering applying to AFRH, veterans are eligible to become residents if their active duty service was at least 50% enlisted, warrant officer or limited duty officer and they meet at least one of the following criteria:
• Retired military with 20 or more years of active duty service who are at least 60 years old, or
• Veterans unable to earn a livelihood due to a service-connected disability, or
• Veterans unable to earn a livelihood due to injuries, disease, or disability, and who served in a war theater or received hostile pay or
• Female veterans who served prior to 1948.
For more information about the AFRH, refer to http://www.afrh.gov or call 1(800) 422-9988. Renditions of the design of the new Gulfport facility as well as time lines for the project will be made available on the Web site as the project progresses. [Source: MRGRG Rex Roark pass along 9 May 07 ++]


PTSD UPDATE 14: An influential scientific advisory group said 8 MAY the government's methods for deciding compensation for emotionally disturbed veterans have little basis in science, are applied unevenly and may even create disincentives for veterans to get better. The critique by the Institute of Medicine, which provides advice to the federal government on medical science issues, comes at a time of sharp increases in cases of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among veterans and skyrocketing costs for disability compensation. The study was undertaken at the request of the Department of Veterans Affairs amid fears that troops returning from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan will produce a tidal wave of new PTSD cases. Between 1999 and 2004, benefit payments for PTSD increased nearly 150%, from $1.72 billion to $4.28 billion, the report noted. Compensation payments for disorders related to psychological trauma account for an outsize portion of VA's budget at 8.7% of all claims, but 20.5% of compensation payments. VA officials said they welcomed the report. "VA is studying the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the report to determine actions that can be taken to further enhance the services we provide," spokesman Matt Burns said in a statement.

The report suggested changes to VA policies, but the panel could not say whether those changes would result in more or fewer PTSD diagnoses, or in greater or lesser expense for taxpayers Psychiatrist Nancy Andreasen of the University of Iowa, who chaired the panel. said, "PTSD has become a very serious public health problem for the veterans of current conflicts and past conflicts… A comprehensive revision of the disability determination criteria are needed .. the current VA system, in which PTSD compensation is limited to those who are unable to hold a job, places many veterans in a Catch-22. You can't get a disability payment if you get a job -- that's not a logical way to proceed in terms of providing an incentive to become healthier and a more productive member of society. The practice is especially wrong, she added, because it is at odds with VA policies for other kinds of injuries. To determine the compensation a wounded veteran should get, the government assigns one a disability score. Veterans who are quadriplegic, for example, can be assigned a disability level of 100 percent even if they hold a job, whereas veterans with PTSD must show they are unable to work to get compensation. The policies are problematic, in the sense that they require the person given compensation to be unemployed. This is a disincentive for full or even partial recovery." One solution suggested by the panel was to set a minimum compensation level for veterans disabled by PTSD, which would allow those who can seek work to do so.

Larry Scott, founder of the group VAWatchdog.org, who applauded the conclusions said, "This is the report the VA didn't want. If the IOM's recommendations are implemented, they will cost VA billions of dollars -- more staff, more staff training, more data collection, more clinical evaluations and higher awards." The report identified problems with both arms of VA's evaluation and compensation procedures: A veteran currently undergoes an evaluation to determine if he or she has PTSD, and the results are used by other raters to determine the level of disability and the amount of compensation. The Institute of Medicine panel said the scale used to evaluate veterans is outdated and largely designed for people who suffer from other mental disorders. Andreasen and other members also said they had heard from veterans who had received wildly different kinds of evaluations -- some lasting 20 minutes while others took hours. The scientists said VA should standardize the evaluations using state-of-the-art diagnostic techniques.

While VA requires its experts to determine what proportion of a veteran's disabilities were caused by particular traumatic experiences, and to what extent overlapping symptoms are related to particular disorders, the IOM said there is no scientific way to classify symptoms in this manner. "The VA's disability policies for veterans with PTSD were developed over 60 years ago and now require major, fundamental reform," said Chris Frueh, a former VA clinician who is now a psychologist at the University of Hawaii at Hilo and was not involved with producing the new report. But even though better care is needed for veterans, Frueh said, it is important not to assume that trauma always results in a mental disorder. "Scientific evidence indicates that resilience is the most common human response to trauma," he said. "Even for the most severe forms of trauma, such as rape or combat, most people do not develop PTSD." [Source: Washington Post Shankar Vedantam article 9 May 07 ++]


VETERAN LEGISLATION 2007 UPDATE 01: The Senate Veteran’ Affairs Committee (SVAC) held a hearing on 9 MAY to review veterans’ benefits legislation (26 bills) now pending before the Committee Legislation under consideration included bills specific to veterans returning from the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as broad legislation to benefit veterans of previous wars. Chairman Akaka noted that much of the legislation on the agenda addressed the needs of veterans with service-connected disabilities. During hearing Sen. Larry Craig, the ranking member of the minority party, received positive reactions to six veteran bills he is sponsoring. One, (S.225) would amend the Wounded Warrior legislation he sponsored and Congress passed in 2005. The new bill would expand the number of individuals qualifying for retroactive benefits from traumatic injury protection coverage under Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance by extending coverage to all servicemembers, no matter where they were, from the start of the war on terror. Craig’s original Wounded Warrior bill has since provided nearly $200 million to over 3,000 veterans seriously wounded and injured since 911. The payments range from $25,000 to $100,000, depending on the severity of the injury. The average payout is approximately $64,000. Payments are generally made within eight weeks after the servicemember is hurt. But as the Idaho Republican talked about changes that are needed to improve the lives of veterans, he cautioned that if Congress passed all 26 bills now before the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, the total would come to nearly $100 billion dollars. Spending on VA programs has already grown from $48 billion in 2001 to over $80 billion this year. [Source: SVAC Press Release 9 May 07 ++]


DFAS myPAY SYSTEM UPDATE 04: myPay officials announced 9 MAY that another new security feature has been added to protect customers’ data on the pay account system. As part of their on-going commitment to strengthen password and account security to protect customers' data, Defense Finance and Accounting Service has implemented the “virtual keyboard” to assist in protecting against malicious software such as Spyware, Trojans and Keylogging. The virtual keyboard is available beginning mid-May. Each time a user arrives at myPay to log on, the virtual keyboard will appear on the screen. The user will type in their Login ID and then the user will "press" the keys on the screen by clicking on them with their mouse to enter their Personal Identification Number (PIN) instead of typing the actual keys. The virtual keyboard is to be used only for the user’s PIN. To enhance security, the keyboard layout changes or keys are displayed randomly every time the page is refreshed.

DFAS uses a variety of security features to protect customer’s data on the myPay system and asks that customers do everything they can to protect data from being compromised or captured on home computers. Under frequently asked question on the myPay homepage (https://mypay.dfas.mil) customers can find more information on steps to secure their home computers. To Login to myPay using the Virtual Keyboard:
1.) Type LoginID under Account Access on the homepage.
2.) Next, click on the numbers and letters (if using a restricted access PIN) of your PIN using the mouse and virtual keyboard on the screen. (Each number and/or letter will appear as an asterisk in the textbox above the virtual keyboard.)
3.) When finished, click the “GO” button.
Once in myPay users will continue to navigate as usual. For more about DFAS refer to http://www.dfas.mil. [Source: DFAS Press Release 9 May 07 ++]


VACATION TRAVEL COST: The present price of gas makes travel by car more expensive. The major factors are how many passengers are involved and how much time you have. It might be cheaper to fly than drive. AAA has a fuel cost calculator at www.fuelcostcalculator.com that will help you decide. Sure, you could estimate the cost of driving. But AAA will give you precise results based on the make and model of your car. You can also see the daily average gas price in different regions of the country. For example a roundtrip from San Diego CA to Washington DC by car with a new Honda Accord would take an average 92 gal of gas at a cost of $597.14 at today’s price to make the 5310 mile roundtrip. Once you arrive you are looking at $17 to $25 daily parking fees for your vehicle. Taking into consideration driving an average of 500 miles a day for 10 days and staying at moderate priced motels in route which average $50 to $55 a day you are looking at about $1100 total cost for the trip by car for two people. On the internet e-ticket for roundtrip fare from San Diego to Washington D.C. can be purchased for $320 to $400 each for a 7 to 9 hour flight. The $300 to $400 savings for two people would more than pay for a rental while there and save wear and tear on your car. The travel time saved would allow a longer stay in the capital with side trips to other points of interest in the area. Airlines offer even lower fares as specials during low season periods and or non-weekend travel days. A little shopping on the internet could result in a more enjoyable vacation at a lower price. [Source: NCPOA Don Harribine article 9 May 07 ++]


DOD MILLENNIUM COHORT STUDY: Starting in May, the Department of Defense will launch the third and final recruitment phase of the largest prospective health project in military history – the Millennium Cohort Study. Designed to evaluate the long-term health effects of military service, including deployments, the cohort is tracking the health status of more than 140,000 service members from active, Reserve, and Guard duty status until well into their civilian careers or retirement. The survey participants are chosen at random from personnel rosters of all the service branches. While cooperation is not mandatory, the program has been endorsed by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Peter Pace as well as several veterans’ service organizations. While the study is entering its sixth year out of a twenty-one year study period, initial data has already sparked much interest in the medical community. Navy CDR Margaret Ryan, a medical doctor who is the principal investigator for the study said, “This project will usher in a new era of insight and understanding in the areas of deployment-related exposures, long-term mental health challenges, and service-related health issues to name just a few of the topics these findings will address,” Funded by the Department of Defense and supported by military, Department of Veterans Affairs, and civilian researchers, nearly 110,000 people are already participating in this groundbreaking study. [Source: Tricare News Release 9 May 07 ++]

[boardman]

VA OIF/OEF ADVISORY COMMITTEE: Secretary of Veterans Affairs Jim Nicholson announced 8 MAY the formation of a formal, 17-person committee that will advise him on ways to improve VA programs serving veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and their families. The panel will report directly to the Secretary who is asking for their ideas and input on how VA can consistently ensure world-class service to America’s newest generation of heroes, particularly severely disabled veterans and their families. The Secretary’s announcement about the Affairs VA panel, called the Advisory Committee on OIF/OEF Veterans and Families, comes on the heels of his presentation 24 APR of recommendations from a presidential task force to improve services to the nation’s newest generation of combat veterans. The committee, to be chaired by retired Lt. Gen. David Barno, consists of OIF and OEF wounded veterans, family members, survivors, leaders of the major veterans organizations and long-time veterans advocates.

The new OIF/OEF advisory committee’s inaugural meeting started 14 MAY in Alexandria, VA to discuss its general work program, future meeting dates, and plans for site visits to VA facilities around the country. The schedule includes briefings by senior officials of VA’s key programs, comments by members of the public who register in advance with the committee, discussions about “seamless transition” goals and procedures affecting combat veterans moving from the military to civilian life. Members of the Committee are: Lt. Gen. Barno of Washington DC; Dawn Halfaker of Washington DC; Lonnie Moore of San Diego CA; Jack L. Tilley of Riverview FL; Gary Wilson of Carlsbad CA; Liza Biggers of New York City; Pam Estes of Dayton MD; Caroline Maney of Shalimar FL; Kimberly Hazelgrove of Lorton VA; Michael Ayoub of Ashburn VA; Rocky McPherson of Tallahassee FL; John Sommer of Annandale VA; Dennis Donovan of Atlanta GA; Frances Hackett of South Plainfield NJ.; Paul F. Livengood of Manassas VA; Tim McClain of Alexandria VA; and Chris Yoder of Baltimore MD. Those seeking more information about the committee or who wish to register to make a statement of up to five minutes should contact VA’s Tiffany Glover by e-mail at tiffany.glover@va.gov. [Source: VA News Release 8 May 07 ++]


VET CEMETERY FLORIDA UPDATE 05: After almost a year of negotiations, the federal government has reached a deal to buy 295 acres in Sarasota County to build a new veterans cemetery. Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-FL-13) confirmed 8 MAY that the Department of Veterans Affairs has agreed to pay about $14 million to buy the land at the Hawkins Ranch in eastern Sarasota County. Construction is expected to begin this year, with the first burial likely to be in fall 2008. Sarasota veterans groups have been pushing for a national cemetery for years, citing the almost 400,000 veterans living within 75 miles of Sarasota. The closest VA cemetery to Sarasota now is the Bay Pines Cemetery in St. Petersburg. The VA began negotiating with ranch owner J. Arlin Hawkins to buy the land in late May 2006. His family has run the ranch, which is about four miles east of Interstate 75 on Clark Road, since the 1870s. The federal government is in the largest cemetery expansion mode since the Civil War, according to the VA. Last month, a new national cemetery was opened in Palm Beach County Florida. Besides the site in Sarasota, five others around the nation will become cemeteries. There are now five national cemeteries in Florida, not including the ones planned for Sarasota and Jacksonville. [Source: Sarasota Herald Tribune 9 May 07 ++]


DOD to VA TRANSITION UPDATE 05: A Government Accountability Office (GAO) official said 8 MAY that neither the Defense nor the Veterans Affairs departments have set a date for deploying modernized electronic health record systems that would ensure seamless data interchange between the two agencies, Valerie Melvin, GAO's director of human capital management, told a House Veterans Affairs subcommittee that the Pentagon had originally projected that it would finish deployment of its Armed Forces Health Longitudinal Technology Application, which is designed to contain outpatient records, and its Clinical Data Repository - holding information on more than 9 million active duty and retired military personnel -- by 2011. The VA, she said, had estimated it would deploy its Health eVet records system, which is intended to replace its existing Veterans Health Information Systems and Technology Architecture system, by 2012. But, she said, officials at both departments told GAO there is currently no completion date for either system.

The two departments have made some progress in short-term projects to share health information, but Melvin said, "These exchanges are as yet limited, and significant work needs to be done to expand the data shared and integrate the various initiatives. Exchange of information between Defense and the VA on troops severely wounded in combat in Afghanistan and Iraq is frustrated by the Pentagon's paper-based records system. Soldiers wounded in combat are first evacuated to the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany, where inpatient records (except discharge summaries) are paper-based. Defense hospitals that later receive wounded patients, such as Walter Reed Army Medical Center and the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, have an inpatient electronic records system called the Clinical Information System. But only a limited number of clinicians at three VA polytrauma centers (Tampa FL; Richmond VA; and Palo Alto CA) have electronic access to that system. Such centers serve soldiers with severe injuries to more than one organ system.”

When patients are transferred from Walter Reed to those polytrauma centers, staff at Walter Reed has to print records from the Clinical Information System, scan the paper and transmit the scanned data to the VA. Defense staff told GAO that this labor-intensive process is feasible only because of the small number of records of polytrauma patients involved in the process -- about 350 to date. Access to radiological images is a high priority for polytrauma doctors, but Melvin said transmitting these images from Walter Reed or the Bethesda Naval Medical Center requires manual intervention when each image is received by the VA. The Pentagon and the VA have made some progress in sharing electronic patient information, she said, through a project known as the Bidirectional Health Information Exchange, which allows text-only viewing of certain data.

Dr. Gerald M. Cross, acting principal deputy undersecretary for health at the VA, told the subcommittee that the department has installed BHIE at every one of the VA's 154 hospitals and more than 800 clinics. He said Defense has installed the system at 18 hospitals and more than 190 outpatient clinics, and by JUN 07 expects it to be up and running at all of its facilities. Melvin said that the VA and Defense also have successfully fielded the Laboratory Data Sharing Interface, allowing the two departments to share lab test data. Stephen Jones, assistant Defense secretary for health affairs, told the subcommittee that to date, his department has electronically transferred medical records on 3.8 million patients to the VA. Both departments, he said, have started work to develop a joint inpatient electronic health records system. They expect to identify the requirements for the project by the spring of 2008. [Source: GOVEXEC.com Bob Brewin article 8 May 07 ++]


DOD TO VA TRANSITION UPDATE 06: Since 2000, the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs has held at least sixteen hearings in order to push DoD and VA to share critical medical information on patients being seen or transferred to VA. The House Committee on Veterans Affairs (HVAC) Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations met yet again 8 MAY to assess the progress made by VA and DoD and its current status on the long term project of electronic medical information sharing. The need for both departments to share medical data is imperative in order to help ensure high quality health care for active-duty military personnel and veterans. Billions have been spent throughout the past twenty years by VA and DoD working on independently stove-piped electronic medical records systems that would provide better care to those serving on the front line of our nation’s efforts for freedom. Yet, neither to date seems to work together in a coordinated effort of care.

For twenty plus years, VA and DOD have been less than enthusiastically addressing this problem, yet there is no solution in sight. In fact, the witnesses at the Subcommittee hearing could not give HVAC any sort of a firm deadline when they expect an interoperable electronic medical records system to be up and running. Subcommittee Ranking Member Ginny Brown-Waite (R-FL) said, “This foot-dragging and bureaucratic passing of the buck is unacceptable. In the past twenty years, entire cities have been built on the sands of the Dubai peninsula; all while these two agencies spend billions of taxpayer dollars with little results to show for their efforts. This Subcommittee will not accept the same tired excuses – we expect action and results … The DoD has seven separate medical legacy systems, and none of them can communicate with the VA systems … Even though the President directed, with Executive Order 13410 in August 2006, the VA and DoD to develop a computer-based system for sharing medical records by January of 2007, the representatives of the VA and DoD at today's hearing could not provide a date for achieving this directive … DoD is studying the feasibility of a shared inpatient record and hopes to have that study done by 2008. After two decades, the goal still remains the same, that finally, there will be a system that will permit the exchange of critical medical information that is interoperable, bi-directional, and occurs in real-time.” For news from House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Republicans, refer to: http://www.veterans.house.gov/republicans/. [Source: HVAC Press Release 8 My 07 ++]


RENTAL CAR AGE RESTRICTION: More seniors are traveling than ever before, and the travel industry has responded by offering a wide range of senior travel discounts and incentives, but there are still a few places in the travel world where age works against you. One example is the car rental counter in some European, African and South Pacific countries, where a little known regulation has stranded more than one unsuspecting senior traveler, leaving them without transportation because they are “too old” to drive the rental car they have reserved. Rental agency’s Insurance companies mandate the maximum age for car rental, and they usually set the cutoff age at 70 or 75. If an older customer has an accident, the company's insurance carrier will increase rates across the board, unless the company agrees to refuse service to any customer above a certain age. Different rental car companies have different insurance carriers, however, so the only way to know whether you will be allowed to drive away in the car you have reserved before leaving on your trip is to ask specifically about age restrictions for rental cars, and how they apply in the area where you will be traveling.

The rules about renting cars after a certain age haven’t become more rigid, but with more seniors traveling the frequency of problems has increased. Most people know there is a minimum age for rental cars, but few people realize that there is also an upper age limit. Dealing exclusively with major rental car companies like Hertz or Avis won’t necessarily help you avoid the problem. While some of the major companies don’t impose age maximums for rental cars at their corporate sites, many have franchise operations in various locations that restrict rental cars by age to meet insurance requirements. Companies don’t always post rental car age restrictions on their Web sites in a place that is easy to find. If you’re 70 or older, call the rental car company directly and ask about their policy in the area where you want to travel. If you get a clerk who doesn’t know or seems uncertain about the policy, ask to speak to a supervisor and keep going up the ladder until you find someone who can verify that you can rent a car at your destination. [Source: About Senior Living Sharon OBrien article 8 May 07 ++]


INDIANA VET INITIATIVES UPDATE 01: On 3 MAY Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels signed two bills that will assist military service members and their families. Senate Bill 480 contains several provisions that affect the quality of life of Indiana military families, including:
- Exempting active duty military pay earned by mobilized reserve component members from individual income tax.
- Increasing the military pay income tax deduction from $2,000 to $5,000.
- Establishing a veterans affairs trust fund and a military and veterans’ benefits board.
- Establishing eligibility for active duty military personnel and their family members to receive resident tuition rates at state educational institutions.
- Authorizing education boards and other licensing boards to adopt rules to expedite the licensure of individuals whose spouses are stationed on active duty in Indiana.

House Bill 1092 improves employment and legal benefits including:
- Establishing an unpaid leave of absence of up to 10 working days for certain family members when a reserve component service member is ordered to active duty.
- Providing grants from the military family relief fund for child care assistance.
- Creating penalties for landlords who refuse to rent to military members.
- Exempting an individual on active duty from serving on a jury.
Complete information on the provisions of both bills may be found at http://www.in.gov/law.htm and looking under legislative information. [Source: NMFA Government & You E-News 7 May 07 ++]


SSA COLA 2008: In its annual report released to Congress earlier this week, Social Security's Trustees announced that the Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2008 is forecast to be just 1.4%, and could be as low as 1.2%. Since the COLA went into effect in 1975, it has never been lower than 1.3%, and has failed to exceed two percent only three times in its 32 year history. That increase means that a senior with an average benefit of $1,044 would see a bump of just $14.60 per month beginning in JAN 08. In contrast, Medicare Part B premiums alone have increased by an average of more than 11% per year over the past five years. Due to hitting a spending warning this year, some analysts expect Part B premiums to climb by double digits again in 2008. As a result, the COLA would be wiped out for most seniors by increases in Part B premiums alone. A majority of the 48 million Americans aged 65 and over who receive a Social Security check depend on it for at least 50% of their total income, and one in three beneficiaries rely on it for 90% or more of their total income. But because the Social Security COLA trails rising costs in everything from Medicare to energy costs, seniors will see their spending power diminish again next year, as it has for several straight years.

The Senior Citizens League is lobbying for a change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) used to determine the COLA to help seniors offset the increasing cost of Medicare Part B. The government currently calculates the COLA based on the CPI for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W), a slower-rising index that tracks the spending habits of younger workers who don't spend a high percentage of their income on health expenditures. However, the government does track the spending patterns of older Americans, and has done so since 1983 with the CPI for Elderly Consumers, or CPI-E. By tying the annual SSA increase in the COLA to the CPI-E, seniors would see much needed relief in their monthly checks. For example, a senior who retired with a benefit of $460 in 1984 would have received almost $10,300 more over the past 23 years with the CPI-E. Rep. Charles Gonzalez (D-TX-20) has introduced “The Consumer Price Index for Elderly Consumers Act (H.R. 1953)” in the 110th Congress which would require this. Rep. Peter DeFazio (OR-4) has introduced a second CPI-E bill H.R. 2032. The difference in the two bills is that H.R. 2032 requires the CPI-E for Medicare benefits as well. [Source: TREA msg. 8 May 07 ++]


VA CLAIM BACKLOG UPDATE 07: Veterans filing disability claims with the Veterans Affairs Department wait for an average of almost six months for a response -- about six times longer than is typical in the private sector. Pending disability claims with the VA take an average of 177 days to process, according to VA records. For some, the wait time is almost a year. And for veterans appealing a decision on a claim, the average wait time is 657 days. For people filing disability claims with insurance companies, about 75% to 80% of claims are handled within 30 days, said America's Health Insurance Plans. Federal law requires disability claims with private insurers to be settled within 45 days, although extensions of 30 days or longer are possible. "The backlog issue is not going to go away until the federal government rolls up its sleeves and takes a serious look at expediting the resolution of claims," said Luz Rebollar, a national service officer with AMVETS who guides veterans through the VA claims process. The biggest factor in the growing backlog is the increased number of veterans using the system. The VA processed almost 775,000 claims last year, pushing the backlog total to about 600,000. With the VA expecting 800,000 claims this year, in part because of the thousands of troops returning from service in Iraq and Afghanistan, the problem is poised to get worse before it gets better, said Dan Bertoni, the Government Accountability Office's(GAO) acting director of education, work force and income security issues. "We had a claims system that didn't work well in peacetime, and it's certainly showing strain now." Bertoni said.

The VA says it's unfair to compare processing times with that of the private sector because the department must prove that the injury or ailment was service-related -- a complex process that includes many hurdles beyond its control. The types of injuries suffered by troops, particularly in Iraq and Afghanistan, also are difficult to evaluate. These claims can involve post-traumatic stress disorder and environmental and infectious disease risks. And claims are becoming increasingly complex, as veterans include more potential disabilities per request than in the past, with each requiring a separate evaluation and rating, the VA says. Some claims involve injuries or ailments that are decades old, further complicating the evaluation process. "There is a large block of time involved in all of this evidence-gathering," said Ronald Aument, the VA's deputy undersecretary for benefits. Still another problem is the VA's difficulty in obtaining medical records and other evidence from the Defense Department, which uses a different computer system, requiring medical records to be physically delivered. The agency says it's working to reduce the appeals processing times by paying greater deference to decisions made at the appeals level. The VA also plans to hire 400 additional claims specialists by summer to help chip away at the backlog.

Aument says his goal is to reduce the average wait time for claims to 160 days by 30 SEP 07 with the agency's long-term target for processing a claim in 125 days. Speeding up the process anymore would require changes in laws that would cut corners and "infringe on veterans rights." That's not fast enough for some on Capitol Hill. "No veteran should have to wait six months or a year for their claim to be decided and then endure an appeal that adds another year or two," said Rep. Doug Lamborn, Colorado Republican, at a House Veterans Affairs subcommittee hearing in March about the claims backlog. "For some veterans, this is not mere inconvenience, it is financial and potentially emotional disaster." In a report submitted at the same hearing and to other congressional panels about the VA's claims backlog, the GAO said the backlog problems may lie in more fundamental reform of the VA's disability compensation program. The GAO suggests that the VA update its 62-year-old criteria for awarding disability claims, which the agency says often results in claimants being classified as disabled when they wouldn't be in the private sector. It also said the VA also could streamline the process by overhauling the structure and division of labor among field offices, which had caused wait times to vary greatly for veterans in different cities and regions. [Source: The Washington Times Sean Lengell article 8 May 07 ++]


VET ORGANIZATION BINGO: With a new governor in office, veterans groups and other charitable organizations in Florida that rely on bingo to raise money hope a long-sought new income source will be made available: instant bingo. Bingo crowds have dwindled over the years, and so has the money groups like Disabled American Veterans (DAV) has to provide services such as van transportation for medical appointments and food for homeless veterans. The old way of setting the calling of numbers and putting a card down is not as exciting as it once was. The group’s new hope is that they will be able to sell instant bingo tickets during bingo games, which will help boost that revenue. It’s been a top priority for veterans groups for years, and one that was squashed by Gov. Jeb Bush’s veto in 2004. Now, they’re hoping for a change in heart with Gov. Charlie Crist in office. The tickets are similar to Florida Lottery instant tickets, except instead of scratching away at the surface to see if a player has won or lost, cardboard tabs are pulled to reveal a prize. They would cost no more than $1 and only be sold at bingo games.

At present 38 other states have allowed instant bingo and that ticket sales have been able to boost income for the nonprofit groups by 30 to 40%. For a group like the DAV, that could be a big help as chapters try to stay afloat, said Al Linden, executive director of the organization’s Florida branch. Last year the DAV organization lost two chapters in Florida because they couldn’t sustain bingo anymore. In the last 20 years the number of DAV chapters has decreased from 103 to 73. Of the remaining chapters, about one-third rely heavily on bingo. There was opposition to the idea in the Florida Legislature, where the House voted 78-38 and the Senate 29-6 for the bill (SB 500) which would allow the ticket sales. Like Bush three years ago, some lawmakers said they oppose any expansion of gambling. Veterans groups argue that it’s not a significant expansion of gambling because ticket sales are limited to bingo halls. Plus, they say, the money goes to charitable causes. [Source: Associated Press article 7 May 07 ++]


HOMELESS VET STAND DOWN: Homeless veterans from across Louisiana are being invited to participate in “Stand Down 2007,” Louisiana’s first statewide event to provide them with medical and social services. The event will assist homeless veterans from 23 & 24 MAY from 09-1530 at the VFW Hall Post 3652 at 15800 DeMarco Lane, Hammond LA. The event is co-sponsored by the Louisiana Department of Labor, VFW Post 3652, Louisiana Army National Guard 205th Battalion, Quad Vets, AM Vets and the American Legion. In times of war, a “stand down” occurs when a combat unit is temporarily moved out of the field and back to base camp for rest and rehabilitation. Homeless veterans are in some ways comparable to soldiers in a war zone — living exposed in the field, enduring extreme conditions and surviving with limited rations.

The first “Stand Down” for homeless veterans was organized in 1988 by a group of Vietnam veterans in San Diego CA. Since then, “Stand Downs” have been used in reaching out to homeless veterans throughout the United States. Participants in “Stand Down 2007” will have access to dental, vision, hearing and medical screening, information about job services and job training programs, Veterans Affairs benefits, Social Security benefits, grooming services, gift packs, a hot meal and more. Efforts are under way to provide transportation for homeless veterans from all areas of the state to attend the event. For more information or to offer transportation or any other assistance, call Quad Vets at (800) 639-7823 [Source: Advocate Staff Report 7 May 07 ++]


PNEUMONIA VACCINATIONS: The Army Medical Department is working to reduce the suffering and death caused by the widespread failure of older beneficiaries to get pneumonia vaccinations. Also known as the pneumococcal shot, the pneumonia vaccine is safe, highly effective and has no side effects. For maximum safety, medical officials also suggest getting a flu vaccine annually. To encourage older patients to get the shot, military medical leaders are stressing these facts:
- Pneumococcal disease can kill you. It is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S. (40,000 deaths annually).
- Pneumonia can make you miserably ill (100,000 -130,000 hospitalizations annually in the U.S.). It usually causes fever, cough and shortness of breath.
- Pneumococcal disease can affect people of all ages, but those age 65 and older are at higher risk for complications. The shot can help protect you from getting a serious infection in your lungs, blood and brain.
- Getting the shot when you’re age 65 or older should protect you for the rest of your life. You can get it any time of the year, and Medicare Part B will pay for it.
For more information, contact your local military treatment facility or your health care provider. [Source: Army Echoes May-Aug 07 ++]


ARMY RETIREE COUNCIL UPDATE 01: The Army Chief of Staff’s (CSA) Retiree Council reported after their annual meeting 23-27APR at the Pentagon that health care remains the greatest issue for more than 900,000 Retired Soldiers, Wounded Warriors and surviving spouses worldwide. The Council also took on one of the CSA's seven initiatives (strategic communication) as a key issue for Retired Soldiers. The Council is made up of 14 retired officers and NCOs and is co-chaired by LTG (Ret.) Frederick E. Vollrath and SMA (Ret.) Jack L. Tilley. Members are nominated by their installation retiree councils and approved by the CSA. At its annual meeting, the Council reviews retiree issues forwarded by installation councils worldwide and determines which should be reported to the CSA and which can be addressed at the installation level. For example, at last year’s meeting, the Council asked the CSA for a new Army Retired pin. At this meeting, Council members were among the first to receive the new pin which is being mailed to all Retired Soldiers.

This year, the Council reviewed 42 issues, about a third of them dealing with health care. The Council cited successes such as Tricare for Life, but recommended that DoD:
- Sustain the military health care system by continuing to support full-resourcing of high-quality health.
- Limit any increase in Tricare fees (if DoD must increase them) to the annual growth in retired pay.
- Raise the Tricare provider reimbursement levels, as necessary, to attract physicians to provide accessible health care services to all beneficiaries.
- Improve the non-subsidized Retiree Dental Program by providing the ability to buy higher levels of service and by expanding the program to countries with sufficient population to make it commercially viable, such as Germany and Korea.
- Continue to support collaboration between the DoD and the VA health care systems to preserve and improve benefits for all beneficiaries and to ensure a seamless transition, especially for Wounded Warriors.

In the strategic communication arena, the Council stated that Retired Soldiers are an operational reserve of potential force-multipliers whose effectiveness in telling the Army story can be enhanced if they’re armed with talking points and support material such as DVDs and handouts. To support these efforts, the Council recommended that the Army:
- Tailor a section of the Army 2007 Strategic Communication Guide to Retired Soldiers to provide topics to use in interactions in their communities.
- That the CSA communicate personally with all Retired Soldiers at least annually to share his priorities and the messages he wants them to pass on.
- Include talking points for telling the Army story in every issue of Army Echoes.
- Continue to fund three issues a year of Army Echoes, with the e-mail version remaining an option, not a requirement.
- Continue to resource the educational efforts in retirement programs such as Retiree Appreciation Days, Retirement Services Officer (RSO) Training; and full, un-sponsored access to Army Knowledge Online (AKO) (https://www.us.army.mil) by Retired Soldiers, their family members and surviving spouses.
- Include the Army Retirement Services Office in distribution of Army press releases, for publication in Echoes and distribution to Council members.

In addition, the Council asked the CSA to:
- Implement the new standardized job description and grade for installation RSOs and fund them expeditiously to increase levels of support across the Army.
- Support efforts to eliminate the Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) offset to the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) annuity.
- Continue to support ongoing programs leading to full concurrent receipt of military retired pay and VA disability compensation for all eligible military retirees.
- Further equity for retired Army Reserve and National Guard Soldiers by supporting the transformation of the Reserve Component retirement system to recognize the risks of multiple deployments and to retain those who wish to complete their Reserve Component careers.
- Urge DoD to support legislation to authorize pretax payment of TRICARE Prime enrollment fees and premiums for TRICARE supplemental, long-term care and Retiree Dental Program fees.
- Support changing military postal system rules to authorize mail privileges for retirees for parcels up to five pounds, unless restricted by host governments.
The Co-Chairmen will meet with the CSA in October to be updated on progress with these issues and to offer their further support. [Source: Army Echoes May-Aug 07 ++]


NDAA 2008 UPDATE 01: The House Armed Services Subcommittee on Military Personnel met the first week of MAY to mark up their portion of the 2008 National Defense Authorization Act (H.R. 1585). The subcommittee’s actions were very encouraging and if approved by Congress as a whole, would greatly benefit all members of the military community. First and foremost, the subcommittee voted to block the Administrations plans for drastic increases in Tricare enrollment fees, deductibles and pharmacy co-pays. Additionally, they added $200 million to the services projected health budgets to make up for “efficiency wedges” imposed on the services health chiefs by the DoD. Other items blessed by the subcommittee include:
- A 3.5% pay raise for active duty members--0.5% higher than requested.
- Expansion of Combat Related Special Compensation (CRSC) to include medically retired (Chapter 61) members who served at least 15 years, were forced from service due to combat-related injuries, and have disability ratings of at least 60%. Those who meet the criteria would be able to draw their VA disability compensation plus a monthly CRSC equal in value to a military retirement annuity calculated on their years actually served. For example, an eligible retiree forced out after 16 years would receive a monthly CRSC payment equal to 2.5 percent of monthly basic pay multiplied by 16 years. (This assumes they were not serving under Redux, a discounted retirement plan.)
- A new survivor indemnity allowance to start incrementally removing the Survivor Benefit Plan/Dependency Indemnity Compensation (SBP/DIC) offset. The allowance would begin on 1 OCT 08 and initially would be valued up to $40 a month. The subcommittee promised this issue would be re-addressed in the future when better cost estimates would be available.
- An increase of force levels by 46,500. The Army would gain an additional 36,000 troops; Marine Corps 9,000; and addressing a concern that the Navy and Air Force were converting too many of their active duty medical personnel to civilian contractors, the subcommittee added 963 personnel to the Air Force and 698 to the Navy to block further conversions.
- A transfer of responsibility for the Selected Reserve Montgomery GI Bill from DoD to the VA where reserve benefits could be raised annually in conjunction with active duty GI bill benefits.

Additionally, “The Wounded Warriors Relief Act” ( H.R.1538), which would improve the management of medical care, personnel actions, and quality of life for members of the Armed Forces receiving medical care in an outpatient status was adopted in it’s entirety by the subcommittee and forwarded as part of their recommendations. The Senate will mark up its version of the 2008 defense bill later this month, no doubt approving a somewhat different set of personnel initiatives. A House-Senate conference later will smooth out the differences. [Source: NAUS Weekly Update May 07 ++]


VA VET CENTERS UPDATE 01: Congressman Phil Hare (D-IL), a member of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee and 43 of his colleagues from both parties sent a letter to VA Secretary Jim Nicholson this week. The letter urged him to immediately address the staffing crisis at our nation's VA walk-in clinics (commonly referred to as Vet Centers) and requested information about his proposed plans for action. It specifically asked Secretary Nicholson (1) what actions are planned to meet the staffing crisis at Vet Centers; and (2) how much funding or other federal resources would be required to fully staff Vet Centers over the next five years.

While the number of returning Iraq and Afghanistan combat veterans visiting Vet Centers has more than doubled since 2004, staffing has only increased by 10%. The bipartisan letter addressing this issue read, "…These staffing shortages unacceptably jeopardize the mental and physical health of both returning troops and aging veterans at a time when more than one in four troops have acknowledged mental health issues. We cannot continue to care for our veterans on the cheap. When we fail to provide a standard of care worthy of the sacrifices of our military veterans, what kind of message does that send to the brave men and women currently fighting around the world? Not only do these shortages place the mental health and well-being of veterans at risk, but they place a significant strain on an already overworked staff. This has resulted in the institution of waiting lists, further increasing the backlog at the VA." [Source: Daily Review Atlas Stacey Creasy article 2 May 09 ++]


GI BILL UPDATE 14: The 10-year window for using GI Bill education benefits after leaving active-duty service would be eliminated under a bill introduced 2 MAY in the Senate. The chief sponsor, Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-WA) said the 10-year limit is outdated and could be part of the reason why up to 60% of veterans who have earned GI Bill benefits do not use them. Veterans who did not attend college or vocational school immediately after leaving the military might need the help when they get older and need new skills to compete for jobs, she said. “In the 21st-century global labor market, enhancing skills through education and job training is now more important than ever,” she said. The bill, S.1261, is called the Montgomery GI bill for Life Act, and is cosponsored by Senators Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH).

The so-called 10-year “delimiting” period of the modern-day Montgomery GI Bill is not new. The same 10-year window to use benefits was imposed during the Vietnam era, based on the idea that benefits with an expiration date would encourage people to make use of them as soon as possible after leaving the service. During the Vietnam era, however, there were fewer married service members, making it easier to attend college after discharge. Setting a termination date on the benefits also makes it easier to budget for the costs of the GI Bill. With the potential for veterans to use GI Bill benefits to attend college throughout their lives, even after retiring from the military or from a second career, the Veterans Affairs Department’s expenses for the GI Bill could be as much as 50% higher, said congressional aides who have looked at the issue of extending the 10-year window. [Source: NavyTimes Rick Maze article 2 May 07 ++]


WRAMC UPDATE 09: Defense Secretary Robert Gates said 2 MAY that Walter Reed Army Medical Center should be closed as planned. Gates' conclusion, following a review of Walter Reed by an independent advisory group, runs counter to the recommendation of some in Congress who have called recently for the Pentagon to reverse its 2005 decision to close the facility. The review group, which presented a summary of its conclusions at a Pentagon news conference with Gates, recommended that Walter Reed remain on a list of military facilities to be closed. It also urged that a plan to move the hospital's capabilities to an expanded National Naval Medical Center at Bethesda, Md., be accelerated. The review group's central finding, released last month, was that money woes and Pentagon neglect were mainly to blame for shoddy outpatient conditions and bureaucratic delays at Walter Reed, the Army's premier medical center. Citing lapses in leadership and oversight as main reasons for the problems, the nine-member independent group concluded that the Defense Department was, or should have been, aware of the widespread problems but neglected them because they knew Walter Reed was scheduled for eventual closure.

Gates indicated to reporters that he saw little wisdom in pouring money into Walter Reed to keep it open indefinitely. "Far better to make an investment in brand-new, 21st-century facilities," he said, referring to the plan announced in 2005 to expand the Bethesda medical center and to build a new medical center at Fort Belvoir VA. He said that based on currently available information it would make sense to go ahead with the plan to close Walter Reed in 2011. "But we ought to have the flexibility to make sure that it stays open until Bethesda and Fort Belvoir are completely ready to take on the responsibilities of the patients and the staff that are at Walter Reed now. Walter Reed should not be closed unless those other facilities are ready to go, in my opinion," he added. Gates also announced the formation of a committee of senior military and civilian officials to make sure that recommendations of the review group and those of a presidential commission are promptly implemented and coordinated. [Source: Associated Press article May 07 ++]


TRICARE/CHAMPUS FRAUD UPDATE 06: The federal government has filed a civil lawsuit against a hand surgeon, accusing him of making more than $2.6 million in false claims to Medicaid, Medicare and the military’s TRICARE program. The lawsuit seeks more than $40 million in damages from the surgeon, Houshang Seradge, his associates and family members. Seradge and his Orthopedic & Reconstructive Center business released a joint statement 30 APR, stating “reimbursement rules are complicated and subject to varying and sometimes inconsistent interpretations. Dr. Seradge ... and the others named in this matter deny any intentional breach of any such rules.” The lawsuit accuses Seradge and his associates of filing more than 6,400 false claims. The lawsuit also alleges that Seradge’s daughter, Espanta Seradge Steppe, and his mother, Hadjieh Hassani, both were employees of Seradge and received compensation from money obtained by fraud.

No criminal charges have been filed. Under federal law, government attorneys are seeking recovery of the $2.6 million, triple that amount in damages, plus $5,000 to $11,000 for each false claim that allegedly was filed. The false billings allegedly were submitted and paid between 1994 and the present, according to documents filed in federal court in Oklahoma City. Fraud allegations against Seradge initially were made in a civil lawsuit filed under seal seven years ago by three former employees. Seradge, in his statement, described the three former employees as disgruntled and said one of them previously brought an unsuccessful suit against him. Seradge said he plans to continue providing medical care in Oklahoma City.

Anyone can identify potential fraud and abuse. Call 1(888) 584-9378 or fax 1(602) 564-2458 to anonymously report suspected fraud and/or abuse and give as much information as possible. Those who call will be asked to make a recording giving specific information on the alleged fraud. If they provide their name and contact number they will be called back within 72 hours. Types of activities that should be reported include:
- A provider billing for services when services were not rendered.
- Services billed do not match the services rendered .
- A provider waiving copayments or deductibles.
- Someone you know is not TRICARE eligible but is receiving benefits
[Source: ArmyTimes AP article 2 May 07 ++]

[boardman]

GULF WAR SYNDROME UPDATE 02: Roberta White, chairman of environmental health at the Boston University School of Public Health believes something is happening to the brain structure of the 1991 Gulf War veterans. Especially among those soldiers who complain of multiple symptoms arising from duty performed in routing Iraqi troops that had occupied Kuwait. She said at the 59th annual meeting of the American Academy of Neurology in Boston, "We found that two regions of the brain had significant shrinking compared with other soldiers who have lower levels of symptoms.” The two regions of the brain -- the rostral anterior cingulate gyrus and the overall cortex -- are involved in thinking and memory. The rostral anterior cingulate gyrus was 6% smaller and the overall cortex was 5% smaller in the brains of veterans who complained of at least five symptoms, when compared with veterans who returned from the Gulf with fewer than five complaints. The measurements were derived using magnetic resonance imaging scans of the 18 patients with more than five medical issues and scans of 18 soldiers with fewer complaints. Overall, White said her study will eventually include 62 veterans, with 31 in each category.

The soldiers complained of fatigue, memory loss, joint pain, headaches, respiratory infections and skin rashes that were severe enough to cause disruption in their activities of daily living, White said 1 MAY in her presentation at the meeting of 12,000 specialists in ailments of the brain and central nervous system.
White told United Press International that the changes she recorded on the imaging scans correlated with delayed recall and learning on standard memory tests. "The question of whether there is anything to these complaints continues to be controversial," Robert Haley, professor of internal medicine at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School at Dallas, told UPI. "These results are part of the mosaic that appears to show that there is something to these complaints. It doesn't nail it down, but adds to the evidence that something happened to these men that has caused physical changes in their brain structure." Haley did not participate in the study presented at the AAN meeting but has also studied effects of Gulf War syndrome in his patients. "These findings suggest there is a loss of brain cells due to a toxic effect of pesticides and nerve gas, which then causes brain volume shrinkage," he said.

Last year the Institute of Medicine convened a panel of experts to review Gulf War syndrome. That panel determined that even though soldiers who served in Iraq and Kuwait suffer increased rates of many ailments, it could find no evidence that the syndrome existed. Haley said that the changes in the brain could have occurred from exposure to some sort of chemical and would not have been caused by the mental stress of fighting a war as suggested by those who doubt the syndrome. White said that many of the men in her study served across Iraq and in the area of Khamisiyah when U.S. forces destroyed a munitions dump that contained chemical weapons including nerve agents sarin and cyclosarin. "These are really important findings given that the Institute of Medicine has stated that the Gulf War syndrome is imaginary and has no physical basis," White said. "When you combine these findings with greater rates of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in the vets, it is pretty clear something happened to the Gulf War veterans' brains, and we're just beginning to see what these effects are," she said. Studies suggest that serving in the first Gulf War doubles veterans' risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a rare, progressive and fatal illness also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. White said in a news briefing, "It took us 20 years to find out about Agent Orange and the Vietnam War. Now, 16 years later, we are beginning to find out about central nervous system ailments in Gulf War veterans." [Source: UPI Ed Susman article 1 May 07 ++]


VA BONUSES: On 30 APR Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-HI), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, sent a letter to R. James Nicholson, Secretary of Veterans Affairs, expressing concerns about bonus awards paid to some of VA’s highest-ranking civil servants. The letter indicates that personnel based in Washington, D.C. received higher bonuses than their colleagues outside of DC, and that some employees received large bonuses in spite of their role in the budget shortfall in 2005. Akaka said, “Just one year after VA’s notorious budget shortfall, when VA management was forced to request emergency funds based on a determination that the budget was short billions of dollars, several senior budget staff each received VA’s highest bonus award of $33,000. I am concerned by this generous pat on the back for those who failed to ensure that their budget requests accurately reflected VA’s needs.” A copy of the letter follows:

April 30, 2007
The Honorable R. James Nicholson
Secretary of Veterans Affairs
810 Vermont Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20420

Dear Secretary Nicholson,
I am writing to share with you my thoughts and concerns about bonus awards paid to some of VA’s highest ranking civil servants. The staff of the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs has reviewed the summary of bonus awards paid in FY 2006 to VA Senior Executive Service (SES) personnel that you forwarded to me earlier this year. The staff found that bonuses to SES personnel were not distributed evenly across the organization, and that some employees received large bonuses in spite of questionable performance outcomes. For example, SES personnel based in Washington, DC received, on average, significantly higher bonuses than their counterparts in other geographic areas. In the VBA, SES bonus recipients based in Washington received an average of $6,800 or 41 percent more than their counterparts elsewhere. In the VHA, bonus awards were an average of $4,600 or 30 percent higher for SES personnel based in Washington. While I understand that these higher bonuses may to some extent constitute an informal cost of living adjustment, there are many U.S. cities where the cost of living is equally high if not higher than here.

VISN directors were the only non-Washington based cohort to receive high bonuses as a whole, and were among the most generously rewarded in FY 2006. 18 VISN directors across the country received bonuses, to an average of $24,000. Their subordinate system and facility directors received, on average, over 40 percent less, and accounted for virtually all recipients of bonuses of under $10,000, the bottom end of the SES bonus range. It is evident to me that, on average, managers based outside of Washington received significantly lower bonuses in FY 2006. It is also clear that award size rose in relation to proximity to the center of the organization. On the whole, medical center directors received the lowest bonuses, while VISN directors nationwide and top managers in Washington received the largest. This is despite the fact that all personnel earned roughly the same base pay, and held the same rank in the sense that they were all at the top of the Federal salary pyramid and mostly ineligible for substantial increases in pay.

Another concern is that just one year after requesting emergency funds based on a determination that the FY 2005 budget and FY 2006 budget request included insufficient funding, several senior VA budget staff each received the VA’s highest award of $33,000. I am not concerned that VA’s SES bonuses are among the highest of any agency, because I believe that VA has some of the most dedicated and hard-working employees of any agency. But I also believe that in the Federal government, awards should be determined according to performance and retention considerations, and should not give the appearance of an entitlement for the most centrally placed or well-connected staff. I would appreciate your thoughts on the FY 2006 bonus awards as well as on what steps you will take to ensure that future bonus awards are more fairly distributed throughout the Department. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely, DANIEL K. AKAKA Chairman [Source: Sen. Akaka Press Release 2 May 07 ++]


VA BONUSES UPDATE 01: Congressman Phil G. Hare (D-IL-17) is calling on Secretary of Veterans Affairs R. James Nicholson to resign for having paid bonuses to senior federal workers who were responsible for a $1 billion shortfall in the VA budget. Hare, a member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, isn’t the first lawmaker to call on Nicholson, a decorated Vietnam veteran and former Republican National Committee chairman, to resign. But Nicholson has survived worse blows that this — such as the loss of personal information on 26 million people last year and claims that the VA is not fully prepared to handle Iraq and Afghanistan combat casualties — and his payment of bonuses is not universally despised, even among Democrats. The chairman of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Daniel Akaka (D-HI) said that he had no problem with paying big bonuses to VA workers, who he thinks are very dedicated, but he did question their distribution. Like Hare, Akaka said he was not certain that senior members of the budget staff at the VA deserved bonuses averaging $33,000 (about 20% of their annual salaries) when the VA had a major budget crisis because costs were underestimated. Also receiving a top bonus was the deputy undersecretary for benefits, who helps manage a disability claims system that has a backlog of cases and delays averaging 177 days in getting benefits to injured veterans.

Akaka also noted that employees in Washington, D.C., received bigger average payments than VA workers outside of D.C., implying an “entitlement for the most centrally placed or well-connected staff. VA officials told the AP that the department’s Washington-based jobs are more difficult, often involving the management of several layers of divisions. VA spokesman Matt Burns said the VA did nothing wrong and on 3 MAY issued a statement on performance awards to senior career civil servants. It noted that VA and its leaders are committed to providing the best possible care and services to our nation's veterans. To best fulfill that commitment, VA needs to be able to retain knowledgeable and professional career civil servants. VA often must compete with significantly higher private sector salaries to keep its career executive leaders. One of the tools the Congress has given government agencies to help keep experienced career executives in public service is performance-based awards, which make their compensation more competitive with the private sector. Without such tools, VA would be much less likely to retain its most experienced career civil servants - which could reduce the quality of services provided to veterans and increase costs to taxpayers in the long run. The VA’s bonus payments also were supported by Jeffrey Phillips, a spokesman for the Republican members of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee.

Rep. Bob Filner (D-C) the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee chairman, who has called on Nicholson to resign in the past, did not endorse Hare’s new call for Nicholson to step down, but said he also questions the bonuses. Annual bonuses to senior VA officials now average more than $16,000 -- the most lucrative in government. Filner said, “Over the last two years, the VA has faced an almost $2 billion shortfall, largely because it had not fully taken into account the cost of helping returning war veterans. It concerns me that the same officials that miscalculated the needs of our veterans were awarded with significant bonuses. Filner said his committee’s oversight and investigations panel will review the bonuses. Rep. John Hall (D-NY) said he was introducing legislation to place a hold on this year's bonuses. The White House came to Nicholson’s support, with White House spokesman Tony Snow saying that the veterans’ secretary wasn’t going to quit. [Source: NavyTimes Rick Maze article 3 May 07 ++]


SGLI UPDATE 07: While appropriations bills generally include only funding provisions, occasionally Congress will include some “authorizing” language in these bills. In the case of H.R.1591, the FY 2007 Supplemental Appropriations bill, Congress included a change to the death gratuity in the supplemental spending bill. The change would have permitted a service member to designate up to 50% of the death gratuity amount to a person other than a spouse or surviving child. The balance of the amount would then be paid to or for the living survivors in the following order:
1.) Service member’s lawful surviving spouse.
2.) If there is no spouse, to the child or children of the member and descendants of deceased children on their behalf.
3.) In the absence of a spouse or children, the parents of the member in equal shares or to the surviving parent.
4.) In the absence of surviving parents, to the duly appointed legal representative of the service member’s estate

The nature of the death gratuity changed significantly when it was increased to $100,000. Under the proposed change in H.R. 1591, a portion of the death gratuity could be allocated like a life insurance settlement, providing flexibility for unique family situations. It is unfortunate that this spending bill was doomed from the start by a presentational veto over troop withdrawal dates. Some type of change is needed to accommodate the variety of family situations present in today’s force and to ensure that surviving family members, especially those guardians of a service member’s minor children, have immediate use of the death gratuity for expenses until other benefit payments begin. If you would like to see similar legislation reintroduced you need to bring the issue to your congressional representative. [Source: NMFA Government & You e-News ++]


TRICARE PHARMACY COPAY UPDATE 01: Pharmacy benefit managers and DoD officials have theorized there is a relationship between medication co-payments and the use of generics by beneficiaries: as the difference in co-payment widens between two groups (generics and preferred-band named medication to non-preferred brand named drugs), beneficiaries will chose the lower costing medications. Recent studies have examined this theory and found its implementation may be a bit more complicated than expected. One study found there must be a considerable difference between the two co-payment levels before beneficiaries will choose to purchase lower priced medications. The study showed beneficiaries were more likely to switch to a generic or preferred-brand name medication when the difference exceeded $21 or more per prescription.

Another study showed a high co-payment does not necessarily drive beneficiaries to choose to purchase lower priced medications. It examined the impact of a company’s decision to increase beneficiaries’ co-payments significantly without educating them about the change in price. The sharp increase was expected to cause beneficiaries to increase their purchase of generics and over the counter medications, decrease the purchase of unnecessary drugs, and increase beneficiaries involvement in the decision making process due to the change in their out of pocket expense. Instead, the study found patients did not switch to the lower cost generics and there was a decrease in overall medication purchases by consumers. This decrease in drug utilization meant consumers were no longer adhering to or complying with their medication regime, which could lead to increased Emergency Room visits and in-patient hospital stays. Results may have been different if beneficiaries had been told the reason behind the large increases and provided information on ways to lower their drug costs through the purchase of generics and preferred-brand named drugs.

However, there may have been other contributing factors that influenced results: drug price changes may not affect consumer buying patterns or behaviors in the same manner as other market driven goods; and adherence/compliance by consumers is not driven just by co-payment structures, but by a complexity of issues, such as the overall cost of drug treatment and disease management, and the treatment regimes being too difficult to follow. To review these studies refer to www.express-scripts.com/ourcompany/news ... llment.pdf & www.express-scripts.com/ourcompany/news ... aydiff.pdf)
[Source: NMFA Government & You e-News ++]


VA CHIROPRACTIC CARE UPDATE 02: Due to a measure introduced in March by Rep. Bob Filner [D-CA-51] it is looking more promising for veterans to get proper chiropractic care for common ailments such as neck pain, low back pain and degenerative conditions. H.R.1470 known as the “Chiropractic Care Available to All Veterans Act” would require the Veterans Administration to have a chiropractor on staff at no fewer than 75 major VA medical centers before the end of 2009, and for all major VA medical centers to have a chiropractor on staff before the end of 2011. Currently, Doctors of Chiropractic serve at only 30 VA sites. [Source: US Newswire Press Release 1 May 07 ++]


VA DATA BREACH UPDATE 33: A U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) report issued 30 APR in response to the May 2006 data breach at the Department of Veterans Affairs says federal agencies should have uniform guidelines governing when to offer credit monitoring to individuals whose personal information is exposed. Veterans were denied the opportunity to take prompt steps to protect themselves against identity theft last year because internal delays kept key VA officials, including the agency's secretary, in the dark for up to two weeks. The delay in notifying Secretary Nicholson led to the GAO assessment that "federal agencies must have rapid internal notification of key officials." The report, however, said that while agencies should have a reaction team in place to decide the response to any data breach, said response is not always warranted. Affected individuals need not always be notified, adding that "notification when there is little or no risk of harm might create unnecessary concern and confusion, desensitize consumers to the dangers of identity theft, and be costly for both government agencies and individuals." [Source: NetworkWorld.com/news Jon Brodkin article 30 Apr 07 ++]


EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION: Emergency contraceptives may not be available on every base, but one so-called “morning after” drug, Plan B, is available from some military pharmacies and by prescription under the military’s health care plan, a defense spokesman said. The Pentagon’s comments, provided in a 30 APR statement, come as a group of lawmakers, led by Rep. Martin Meehan (D-MA) are pushing to have Plan B made available at every military hospital and clinic. The bill (H.R.6024) was referred to the House Armed Services Committee, which could take up the issue over the next two weeks as an amendment to the 2008 defense authorization bill. James Tyll, a spokesman for the assistant defense secretary for health affairs, said in a statement that two-thirds of military treatment facilities once carried Plan B, which was approved by the FDA in 1999. But after the drug was removed from the military’s drug formulary amid controversy in 2002, hospitals and clinics are no longer required to have the drug on hand. The formulary is a list of drugs that every pharmacy should have available.

Each pharmacy decides what drugs to carry, and can add items not on the basic list. At locations where the drug is in not in stock, there are alternatives. A mega-dose of oral contraceptive taken in a specific sequence would have the same effect as Plan B and could be prescribed, Tyll said. Plan B was added to the basic core formulary in MAR 02 but it did not remain on the list for long. Within hours, the Tricare Management Agency started receiving inquires from lawmakers that centered on whether Plan B caused an abortion. Tyll said it was the Defense Department’s view that the drug does not cause an abortion but rather prevents a pregnancy. But after more criticism, Plan B was removed from the formulary 8 MAY 02. Tyll said, “The Defense Department is studying whether to place it back on the formulary. Since 2002, Plan B remains available to military beneficiaries. There is no policy prohibiting beneficiary access to emergency contraception, nor is there a policy prohibiting military treatment facilities from adding Plan B” to their respective formularies. Tricare covers Plan B either through retail pharmacies or by mail order. Additionally, all military treatment facilities care “at least eight different types of regular oral contraceptive pills.” [Source: NavyTimes Rick Maze article 30 Apr 07 ++]


DOD TO VA TRANSITION UPDATE 04: U.S. Rep. Peter Welch will introduce three new bills aimed at improving health care for veterans in his attempt to fix the bureaucratic mistakes exposed by the recent Walter Reed scandal. Welch said the three proposals are aimed at fixing administrative problems that face soldiers as they transition from the military to civilian life, a problem that he believes affects veterans from Washington to Vermont.

The first is aimed at streamlining the transition for soldiers between the U.S. Department of Defense, which oversees the military, and the U.S. Department of Veteran's Affairs, which manages the health care system for returning soldiers. The legislation would require the military to give soldiers medical exams before they are discharged. With the soldier's permission, the military would then send that information to the VA to determine benefits eligibility.
The second bill would boost the number of claims representatives at VA centers across the country, including the facility in White River Junction. The bill would require that at least two new positions are opened up at each facility to handle the load. Welch said, “Pending claims have jumped from 69,000 in 2001 to 400,000 in 2006 and that the Bush administration did not properly prepare for the surge in claims. A claim delayed often becomes a claim denied. The administration simply did not plan for the care of these soldiers when they launched the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan."
The third would allow members of the National Guard and Reservists to join an army program that would allow them to begin receiving medical benefits as soon as they leave the military. The program called Benefits Delivery at Discharge is open only to traditional branches of the national military, although guard and reservists comprise up to 40% of the U.S. forces serving in the Middle East and have a benefits denial rate of twice as much as other branches of the military.

Earlier this year, Welch proposed creating an ombudsman position within the military's health care system to act as advocates for veterans. That amendment was added to a veterans care funding bill that passed the U.S. House in MAR 07. [Source: Rutland Herald Daniel Barlow article 1 May 07 ++]


COLA 2008 UPDATE 04: The Consumer Price Index continued its recent trend and rose a full 1% above February's value, edging inflation into positive territory for the first time in FY2007. The March CPI-W was 200.612 which is above the February CPI-W of 198.544. The CPI-W change from the COLA base of 199.1 at the beginning of the year is now 0.8%. The primary reason for the increase in the CPI-W was a 6.0% increase in energy prices which we are all observing at the gas pumps. Inflation was this low in only four out of the previous 30 years through March. Still, those four previous years ultimately provided COLAs that ranged from 1.4% to 3.6%. [Source: MOAA Leg Up 27 Apr 07]


VA RURAL ACCESS UPDATE 01: On 26 APR the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Health held a legislative hearing on 12 bills addressing veterans' health care, five of which had a focus on improving rural access to care and three more focused on general access issues such as reducing waiting times for care. Jeff Miller (R-FL-01), subcommittee ranking member said, "Since 2003, the number of patients VA is treating has grown from 4.8 million to an expected 5.8 million in fiscal year 2008. In 2008, VA anticipates treating 263,000 Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom veterans, 25.8% more than the 2007 level. This surge in demand for health care is expected to continue and creates new challenges for VA's capacity to deliver both primary and specialty care. The discussion today on legislation that will help us provide us the best care for our veterans, whether it is through contract care, or requiring more VA medical centers to provide chiropractic services, was productive. I look forward to working on a bipartisan basis with my colleagues to move forward legislation from among today's offerings that will truly help our veterans and their families.” Following is a list of the bills the committee addressed. More complete info on these bills and how they can improve veteran health care is available at http://thomas.loc.gov:

H.R. 0000 Draft Rural Health Care Bill; (Michaud, D-ME)
H.R. 0092 Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act; (Brown-Waite, R-FL)
H.R. 0315 HEALTHY Vets Act of 2007; (Pearce, R-NM)
H.R. 0339 Veterans Outpatient Care Access Act of 2007 (Duncan. R-TN)
H.R. 0463 Honor Our Commitment to Veterans Act; (Rothman, D-NJ)
H.R. 0538 South Texas Veterans Access to Care Act of 2007; (Ortiz, D-TX)
H.R. 1426 Veterans' Access to Local Health Care Options & Resources Act; (Latham, R-IA)
H.R. 1470 the Chiropractic Care Available to All Veterans Act; (Filner, D-CA.)
H.R. 1471 Better Access to Chiropractors to Keep our Veterans Healthy Act (Filner, D-CA)
H.R. 1527 the Rural Veterans Access to Care Act; (Moran, R-KS)
H.R. 1944 Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act of 2007; (Altmire, D-PA)
H.R. 0542 to require the DVA to provide mental health services in languages other than English, as needed, for veterans with limited English proficiency, and for other purpose; (Solis, D-CA)
[Source: TREA Washington Update 27 Apr 07 ++]


UNITED SERVICES ORGANIZATION (USO): Recently the United Services Organization (USO) of Metropolitan Washington opened its much-anticipated lounge at Dulles International Airport. The new 770-square-foot facility at Dulles is located on the arrivals level across from Baggage Claim 12. There, servicemembers can get information and assistance, have a snack, watch a movie, and make unlimited domestic and international phone calls. Business services, including wireless Internet, photocopying and faxing are also available. Servicemembers now have USOs in each of the three Washington D.C. metropolitan area airports, Baltimore-Washington International, Ronald Reagan Washington National and Dulles International.

The USO is a private, nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide morale, welfare and recreation-type services to our men and women in uniform and the military community. It was founded in response to a request from President Franklin Delano Roosevelt to provide morale and recreation services to military personnel and was incorporated Feb. 4, 1941. The original intent of Congress and the enduring style of USO delivery is to represent the American people by extending a touch of home to the military. The USO currently operates more than 130 centers worldwide, including ten mobile canteens located in the continental United States and overseas. Overseas centers are located in Germany, Italy, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, Qatar, Korea, Afghanistan, Guam, and Kuwait with a paid staff and a volunteer corps numbering 25,000. . Service members and their families visit USO centers more than 5.6 million times each year. USO celebrity entertainment tours bring volunteer celebrities to entertain, lift morale, and express the gratitude and support of the American people. For more information on USO facilities and programs, refer to http://www.uso.org/. [Source: NAUS Weekly Update 27 Apr 07 ++]


SDVI UPDATE 01: Congressman Walter Jones (R-NC-03) has introduced H. R. 2026, the Disabled Veterans Insurance Improvement Act of 2007, a bill that would increase the amount of supplemental life insurance available for totally disabled veterans. H.R. 2026 would increase the coverage available by $20,000, making a total of $50,000 of life insurance available to totally disabled veterans. Senator Daniel Akaka (D-HI), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, has also introduced companion legislation S.1315 in the U.S. Senate. Jones said “The $30,000 maximum life insurance coverage currently available for totally disabled veterans falls well short of the death benefits available to servicemembers and veterans enrolled in the Service members' Group Life Insurance and Veterans' Group Life Insurance programs. Because many totally disabled veterans have difficulty getting life insurance on the commercial market, this legislation would help these heroes by providing them, and their families, with a sense of security for the future.”

Service-Disabled Veterans' Insurance (S-DVI) was established during the Korean War to provide life insurance to veterans with service-connected disabilities through a $10,000 benefit (totally disabled veterans are eligible for waiver of premiums on this benefit). This amount has never been increased. In 1992, supplemental coverage worth $20,000 was offered to the veterans who qualify for S-DVI (premiums must be paid for this coverage), making the maximum possible coverage for totally disabled veterans $30,000. The Disabled Veterans Insurance Improvement Act of 2007 would allow totally disabled veterans to purchase an additional $20,000 in coverage, bringing their total possible coverage to $50,000: $10,000 (original) + $20,000 (1992 supplemental) + $20,000 (2007 supplemental) = $50,000 available to totally disabled veterans. [Source: TREA Washington Update 27 Apr 07 ++]


ALABAMA DEPENDENTS' SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM: This nationally-renowned program was created by Act 633 and approved OCT 47 by the Alabama Legislature. It is administered by the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs and is governed by the Code of Alabama 1975, Section 31-6-1. The veteran must meet the following qualifications to establish eligibility of his/her dependents. A dependent is defined as a child, stepchild, spouse or the un-remarried widow(er) of the veteran.

The veteran must have honorably served at least 90 or more days of continuous active federal military service or honorably discharged by reason of service-connected disability after serving less than 90 days.
The veteran must be rated 20% or more due to service-connected disabilities or have held the qualifying rating at the time of death, a former prisoner of war (POW), declared missing in action (MIA), died as the result of a service-connected disability, or died while on active military service in the line of duty.
The veteran must have been a permanent civilian resident of the State of Alabama for at least one year immediately prior to (a) the initial entry into active military service or (b) any subsequent period of military service in which a break (1 year or more) in service occurred and the Alabama civilian residency was established. Permanently service-connected veterans rated at 100% who did not enter service from Alabama, may qualify after establishing at least five years of permanent residency in Alabama prior to filing of an application or immediately prior to death, if deceased.

The program will provide four standard academic years or part-time equivalent at any Alabama state-supported institution of higher learning or a prescribed course of study at any Alabama state-supported technical school without payment of any tuition, required textbooks or instructional fees. However, for a spouse or un-remarried widow(er) of a veteran who is rated 20 - 90% due to service-connected disabilities ise only entitled to two standard academic years without payment of tuition, required textbooks and instructional fees or a prescribed technical course not to exceed 18 months of training. Spouses forfeit benefits upon divorce from veteran in which the spouse derived their eligibility. A widow(er) forfeits benefits upon remarriage. The child or stepchild must initiate training prior to their 26th birthday. Age 30 deadline may apply in certain situations. There is no age deadline for submission of the application by the spouse or un-remarried widow(er). The Alabama department of Veteran Affairs maintains an office in each county of the State which can furnish information and assist in filing your application. [Source: NTWS Newsletter 26 Apr 07 ++]


INSURRECTION ACT: The Senate Judiciary Committee heard testimony 24 APR relating to Presidential authority to deploy the National Guard in emergencies. A provision that was quietly inserted into the 2007 Defense Authorization Act amended the Insurrection Act of 1807, expanding the President’s authority to federalize the National Guard. The move has drawn criticism from members of Congress, the Guard, Governors, and law enforcement officials, who believe it will undermine the states’ abilities to respond to emergencies. Senator Christopher Bond (R-MO) called the measure “ill-conceived, unnecessary, and dumb” and Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT) said it “stripped control of the National Guard from the Governors.” Senators Bond and Leahy have sponsored S.513, a bill designed to repeal the language inserted into last year’s defense authorization act. The bill is supported by all 50 Governors, including North Carolina Governor Michael Easley, who said in testimony Tuesday that the provision “undermines our ability to protect the people we serve.” Lt. Gen. Steven Blum, Chief of the National Guard Bureau, testified that the employment of the Insurrection Act takes authority from the Governors and places it with the federal government and Maj. Gen. Timothy Lowenberg, Adjutant General of Washington, told the Judiciary Committee that, in times of emergencies, states need federal assistance, not a federal takeover. While the Insurrection Act granted the President the authority to respond to acts of insurrection or domestic violence, the new language expands that right to “restore public order,” a term that is not so simply defined. Leahy took further issue with the way that the language was slipped into the bill. “It’s not just bad process,” he said. “It’s bad policy.” [Source: NGAUS Leg Up 27 Apr 07 ++]


NATIONAL VETERANS WHEELCHAIR GAMES: Five hundred disabled American heroes will converge on Milwaukee 19 - 23 JUN to test their agility, athleticism and strength of spirit in the 27th National Veterans Wheelchair Games, the largest annual wheelchair sports event in the world. Veterans from the recent conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq will again join veterans from the Gulf War, Vietnam and other conflicts in 17 competitive events. The vent provides a chance for disabled veterans to share in the camaraderie of friendly competition. The Wheelchair Games, presented by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), are open to all U.S. military veterans who use wheelchairs for sports competition due to spinal cord injuries, certain neurological conditions, amputations or other mobility impairments. For the first time at the Games, a demonstration track event will be held for athletes who are able to stand using prosthetic devices.

The Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center in Milwaukee and the Wisconsin chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) are hosting the 2007 Games. Veterans competing in the National Veterans Wheelchair Games come from nearly all 50-states, plus the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Great Britain. At the Games, veterans will compete in track and field, swimming, basketball, weightlifting, softball, air guns, quad rugby, 9-ball, bowling, table tennis, archery, handcycling, a motorized rally, wheelchair slalom, a power wheelchair relay and power soccer. Trap shooting and wheelchair curling will be exhibition events this year. Sports are important in the therapy used to treat many disabilities. VA
is a recognized leader in rehabilitation, with therapy programs available at VA health care facilities across the nation. For many injured veterans, the Wheelchair Games provide their first exposure to wheelchair athletics.

The 27th National Veterans Wheelchair Games begin 19 JUN with a wheelchair basketball demonstration at Red Arrow Park, as well as the 2007 Disabled Sports, Recreation and Fitness Expo. Kids Day at the Games is slated to take place on 22 JUN at the Milwaukee County Zoo, where local children, many with disabilities, will meet the athletes and learn about wheelchair sports. Opening and closing ceremonies will be held at the Midwest Airlines Convention Center, along with many of the week’s competitive events. Admission is free to the public and the community is encouraged to attend. To volunteer during the week, or to obtain more information about the competitive events, visit the Games Web site at http://www1.va.gov/vetevent/nvwg/2007/default.cfm. [Source: VA News Release 26 Apr 07 ++]

EAT MORE, STAY THIN: Obesity is only 50% genetics. The other 50% is just personal habits. Differences in genetics and metabolism are not conclusive factors in making someone overweight. When you look closely, it turns out that lifelong-lean people just have better control over what they put in their mouths. Most lean people learned the habits that keep their weight under control in childhood. What that means is that the rest of us can adopt these slenderizing habits, too. Here's what that trim person isn't telling you.

1. Never say diet: The weight you lose during a two-week crash diet rarely stays off for long; you've probably experienced that. As soon as you stop restricting what you eat, the pounds come right back—and they generally bring friends. Why? Dieters unintentionally train their bodies to store more body fat at a faster rate. "Under normal conditions, humans absorb only about 80 to 90% of the nutrients from the food they eat. The rest—calories and all—passes through. But when the body is deprived of nourishment it becomes a super efficient machine, absorbing a much higher percentage of nutrients from food. So when a dieting person begins eating normally again, the body continues absorbing food at the higher rate—and stores more of it as fat. Rather than dieting, the best thing is to make gradual, permanent changes to the way you eat—changes you can live with for years, not days.
2. Beware of "low fat": Foods that are sweet but have few calories can throw off the body's natural ability to judge how many calories you're actually consuming. Because diet foods can have a super sweet taste but few calories, your body gets fooled into thinking that foods sweetened with real sugar also have no calories, leading people to overeat.
3. Steer clear of white bread: Researchers studied 459 middle-age men and women living in Baltimore, they found white bread had a mysteriously strong connection with obesity. The people who eat it most often are also the most overweight. The experts aren't entirely sure why. Calories from refined grains, like white bread or white rice, just seem to settle at the waistline more than calories from other foods. The key here may be fiber, which is filling and doesn't cause weight gain. Breads made with white flour have almost none. A better option is whole-grain bread with at least two grams of fiber per slice. Read the label, and make sure whole grain is listed as the first or second ingredient (don't just grab a brown bread; some contain molasses to add coloring).
4. Trust your brain, not your stomach: Too many people think you have to eat immediately when you feel hunger, yet that's not the case at all. Heavier folks often think they're hungry when they're really just craving a food. Though fleeting cravings triggered by a variety of stimuli (such as a fast-food commercial or the smell of a barbecue) are easy to interpret as hunger pangs, they're actually just a temporary lust. Unless you're a diabetic or have other blood sugar problems, you can ignore these cravings or quash them by distracting yourself with some task. Take a short walk, phone a friend, or read a book. Many times you'll find that what you really wanted was something to do, not something to eat.
5. Weigh in every day: One thing that comes up over and over with patients enrolled in the National Weight Control Registry (call 800-606-6927 to enroll) is that weighing each and every day on a scale has helped people lose weight and keep it off. You can catch small changes as they occur and take corrective measures immediately, before your weight spirals out of control. This advantage is important for staying lean, because it's much easier to lose two pounds than it is to lose 20.
6. Learn what four ounces looks like: An easy way to eat smaller portions is to use salad or even dessert plates instead of dinner plates. Often our conception of "enough" comes from comparing a food's volume with its container. Also, eat with companions so you're more likely to talk while eating; yammering slows down consumption, and anything that slows you down is a boon. Most of us already eat too much before our brains realize we have even picked up the fork. It can take 12 minutes or longer for the signal that you've started eating to make its way to your brain.
7. Punch your snooze button: There's a very significant relationship between sleep and obesity. It's easy to confuse feelings of fatigue with feelings of hunger. Sleep deprivation can disrupt your metabolism, wreaking havoc on the body's ability to maintain a healthy weight Sleep-deprived people need to produce 30% more insulin, on average, to process their food—a trait that predisposes people to weight gain and increases the risk of obesity over time. Fat cells produce a hormone called leptin, which helps the body keep track of how much potential energy (i.e., fat) it has stored. Leptin production peaks when you're asleep, and that spike can be interrupted if you deprive yourself of Z's. This leaves your body with an unreliable measurement of how much energy it has in reserve and ultimately causes it to end up storing calories rather than burning them.
8. Dive into doughnuts: The allure of the forbidden is compelling but spurs feelings of self-loathing. The whole time you’re eating a "bad" food, even if it's deserved and infrequent, a gnawing voice scolds you, saying, "You shouldn't be eating this. You have no self-control. As a result, you scarf down the food quickly instead of enjoying the snack and feeling satisfied. Feeling guilty and depressed for many people, leads to raiding the potato chip drawer again. Lean people usually don't feel guilty when they're eating a food they enjoy. Instead, they make a lot of fanfare out of eating rich foods, getting maximum enjoyment from them.
9. Twiddle your thumbs: It's a misconception that lean folk spend five hours a day on the treadmill. Most find ways to sneak physical activity into their daily lives, whether consciously (taking the stairs instead of the elevator) or unconsciously (pacing while talking on the phone). It came down to the amount of time spent engaged in small-scale movement. Minor activities of daily life—standing up, stretching, even maintaining good posture are effective.
10. Say "not now" instead of "no": Trying to eliminate favorite foods from your diet can bring disastrous results. You're usually much better off just eating a small amount of what you really want. The secret is planning. Use your favorite meal as a reward for a week of significant accomplishments: you grabbed your running shoes every evening when you really wanted to grab the remote control, or you grilled the chicken you normally would have fried. Now you get the bowl of Rocky Road as a treat. Even if you're not the self-rewarding type, try giving yourself a heart's-desire meal once a week. For six days you eat normally and sensibly. Then, at dinner of day seven, you're free to eat General Tso's chicken and bratwurst with mashed potatoes on the side—if those are the foods you crave. If you follow a healthy diet 95% of the time, you can relax and enjoy yourself the other 5%.
[Source: AARP Health article May 06 www.aarpmagazine.org/health/stay_thin.html ++]


EMAIL ADDRESSING: When you send an email to more than one recipient, it is common to put the additional email addresses in the “CC” (carbon copy) window. When the email is sent, all of those email addresses and any names associated with them are visible to all the recipients. For those who don’t want their email addresses to be known, that is a problem. If the number of additional recipients is very large, it also creates a lot of clutter in the message. It is better to use the “BCC” (blind carbon copy) feature because even though the email will still be sent to all the recipients, the only name visible at the top of the email will be the person to whom it was addressed. Although it’s rare for email addresses to attract stalkers, it is common for email addresses to accidentally be passed into the hands of those who the owner of the address would rather not have it. [Source: Don Harribine’s Tips & Topics 2 May 06]


VETERAN LEGISLATION STATUS 14 MAY 07: Refer to the Bulletin attachment for a listing of Congressional bills of interest to the veteran community that have been introduced in the 110th Congress. Support of these bills through cosponsorship by other legislators is critical if they are ever going to move through the legislative process for a floor vote to become law. A good indication on that likelihood is the number of cosponsors who have signed onto the bill. A cosponsor is a member of Congress who has joined one or more members in his/her chamber (i.e. House or Senate) to sponsor a bill or amendment. The first member to sign onto a bill is considered the sponsor. Members subsequently signing on are called cosponsors. Any number of members may cosponsor a bill in the House or Senate. At http://thomas.loc.gov you can review a copy of each bill, determine its current status, the committee it has been assigned to, and if your legislator is a sponsor or cosponsor of it. The key to increasing cosponsorship is letting our representatives know of veterans feelings on issues. At the end of some listed bills is a web link that can be used to do that. Otherwise, you can locate on http://thomas.loc.gov who your representative is and his/her phone number, mailing address, or email/website to communicate with a message or letter of your own making.


Lt. James "EMO" Tichacek, USN (Ret)
Director, Retiree Assistance Office, U.S. Embassy Warden & IRS VITA Baguio City RP
PSC 517 Box RCB, FPO AP 96517
Tel: (760) 839-9003 when in U.S. & Cell: 0915-361-3503 when in Philippines.
Email: raoemo@sbcglobal.net (Primary) & raoemo@mozcom.com (Alternate)
Web: http://post_119_gulfport_ms.tripod.com/rao1.html
AL/AMVETS/DAV/FRA/NAUS/NCOA/MOAA/USDR/VFW/VVA/CG33/DD890/AD37 member

[boardman]

RAO Bulletin Update 1 June 2007


THIS BULLETIN UPDATE CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING ARTICLES:

== VA Health Care Funding [08] --- (Mandatory vice Discretionary)
== Mobilized Reserve 30 MAY 07 --------------- (Net Increase 4940)
== Red Cross Scam -------------------------------- (Phony Calls)
== GI Bill of Rights [01] --------------------- (New Legislation)
== Tattoo Laser Removal ---------------- (New Techniques Available)
== Jets for Vets ----------------- (Non- Relative Travel Option)
== AFRC Virginia Beach VA ----------------------- (Cape Henry Inn)
== Military Health Care TF [06] ----- (Fee Increase- Recommended)
== Veteran Legislation 2007 [02] ------------- (House Passes 6 Bills)
== VA Clinic Openings [04] -------------------------- (38 in 22 States)
== Gold Star Parents Annuity Act ---------- ($125 Monthly Pension)
== Passport Obtainment [01] ---------------------- (Current Situation)
== State Veterans Home Program [01] -------- (LTC New Approach)
== Tricare Uniform Formulary [19] ---------- (AUG Tier 3 Changes)
== Avandia Safety Alert ---------------- (Diabetes Type II Medicine)
== AO & Prostrate Cancer ---------------------- (PSA Tests Essential)
== VA Claim Backlog [08] ---------------------- (Increased Funding)
== VA CBI ---------------------------------- (Help-line Service)
== TMOP [06] ---------------------------------------- (Zero Copay Test)
== NDAA 2008 [02] --------------------- (House Initiatives Opposed)
== NDAA 2008 [03] ----------------------- (Amendments/Provisions)
== Reserve Retirement Age [10] ---------- (House NDAA Inclusion)
== Vet Cemetery Colorado ------------------------- (H.R.1660 Status)
== Gulf War Syndrome [03] ------------------- (Sarin Gas Exposure)
== VA Bonuses [02] ------------------------- (HR 2292 Would Block)
== Stolen SSN Usage ---------------------------- (Impact on Benefits)
== Military Unemployment Compensation --------- (Vet & Spouse)
== VA Success Questioned ------ (McClatchy Newspaper's Report)
== Veteran Legislation Status 30 MAY 07 ------- (Where we Stand)

Editor’s Note: Attached is a listing of veteran legislation with current cosponsor status that has been introduced in the 110th Congress. To see any of these bills passed into law representatives need input from their veteran constituents to instruct them on how to vote.


VA HEALTH CARE FUNDING UPDATE 08: On the heels of Memorial Day, Rep. Phil Hare (D-IL), a member of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, introduced the Assured Funding for Veterans Health Care Act of 2007, a bill to make VA health care a mandatory spending item within the federal budget. He was joined by co-sponsors of the bill and representatives from the American Legion, the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, the VFW, the Disabled American Veterans, the Blinded Veterans Association, and the Disabled American Veterans. Below are his remarks, as prepared. Hare made a number of remarks in support of the legislation which included wake-up calls for the following:
- The fact that a backlog of 600,000 VA disability claims is not only inefficient, it’s immoral.
- The fact that our nation’s vet centers are short on staff and many veterans suffering from PTSD are going without the counseling they need.
- The fact that it’s hypocritical to say you support the troops while our wounded soldiers are living in rat-infested rooms at Walter Reed.
- The fact that it is wrong to give senior VA officials lucrative bonuses at the same time veterans are waiting in line to see a doctor.
- The fact that the way we budget for the needs of our veterans is inadequate in an era of terror.
- The fact that the VA actually ran out of money the last 2 years—suffering shortfalls of $1 billion in 2005 and $2 billion in 2006.
- The fact that VA health care is currently the only major federal health program that is not funded through mandatory appropriations.

He commented that the system is broken and said, “It is nearly impossible to continue to meet the growing needs of our veterans through discretionary spending. It is a 19th century solution to a 21st century challenge”. The Assured Funding for Veterans Health Care Act of 2007 has 73 co-sponsors, including the Chairman of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee. In addition, the idea of multi-year funding has bipartisan support. Representative Smith of New Jersey, a Republican, has introduced legislation to fund VA health care in two-year blocks. [Source: Congressman Phil Hare Press Release 24 May 07 ++]


MOBILIZED RESERVE 30 MAY 07: The Army, Air Force and Marine Corps announced the current number of reservists on active duty as of 30 MAY 07 in support of the partial mobilization. The net collective result is 4940 more reservists mobilized than last reported for 9 MAY 07. At any given time, services may mobilize some units and individuals while demobilizing others, making it possible for these figures to either increase or decrease. Total number currently on active duty in support of the partial mobilization for the Army National Guard and Army Reserve is 67,769; Navy Reserve, 5,391; Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, 6,181; Marine Corps Reserve, 6,651; and the Coast Guard Reserve, 356. This brings the total National Guard and Reserve personnel, who have been mobilized, to 86,348, including both units and individual augmentees. A cumulative roster of all National Guard and Reserve personnel, who are currently mobilized, can be found at http://www.defenselink.mil/news/May2007 ... 530ngr.pdf . [Source: DoD News Release 30 May 07 ++]


RED CROSS SCAM: The American Red Cross has learned about a new scam targeting military families. This scam takes the form of false information being told to military families. A caller (young-sounding, American accent) calls a military spouse and identifies herself as a representative from the Red Cross. The caller states that the spouse's husband (not identified by name) was hurt while on duty in Iraq and was med-evacuated to a hospital in Germany. The caller states they couldn't start treatment until paperwork was accomplished, and that in order to start the paperwork they needed the spouse to verify her husband's social security number and date of birth. American Red Cross representatives typically do not contact military members/dependents directly and almost always go through a commander or first sergeant channels. In addition, American Red Cross representatives will contact military members/dependents directly only in response to an emergency message initiated by your family. The Red Cross does not report any type of casualty information to family members. The Department of Defense will contact families directly if their military member has been injured. Should any military family member receive such a call, they are urged to report it to their local Family Readiness Group or Military Personnel Flight.

Military family members are urged not to give out any personal information over the phone if contacted by unknown/unverified individuals, to include confirmation that your spouse is deployed. It is a federal crime, punishable by up to 5 years in prison, for a person to falsely or fraudulently pretend to be a member of, or an agent for, the American National Red Cross for the purpose of soliciting, collecting, or receiving money or material. The American Red Cross ensures that the American people are in touch with their family members serving in the United States military by operating a communications network that is open 24-hours, 7 days-a-week, 365 days-a-year. Through a network of employees and volunteers at Red Cross national that link families during emergencies, access to emergency financial assistance, confidential counseling, community support headquarters, local chapters, on military installations, and deployed with troops, the Red Cross offers a broad range of services. Among these services, the Red Cross provides communications for families left behind, assistance to veterans, and preparedness courses for military personnel and their families For more information refer to the American Red Cross website at http://www.redcross.org/. [Source: Red Cross Press Release 30 May 07 ++]


GI BILL OF RIGHTS UPDATE 01: Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-NY) and Patrick Murphy (D-PA), former U.S. Army Captain and Iraq war veteran, announced 16 MAY that they have introduced legislation in both chambers of Congress (H.R.2385 & S.1409) to enact a new GI Bill for the 21st Century. The new legislation, the 21st Century GI Bill of Rights Act of 2007, will expand educational, housing and entrepreneurial opportunities for soldiers, veterans and their families. The Act will guarantee eligibility to all servicemembers -- Active Duty, National Guard, and Reserves -- who have served since September 11, 2001 and deployed overseas in support of a combat operation. Eligibility will also be extended to Active Duty personnel who have served a minimum of two years on Active Duty since September 11, 2001, and National Guard and Reserve personnel who have served a minimum aggregate of two years on Active Duty since September 11, 2001. The Clinton-Murphy bills will:

- Increase Education Opportunities. The act will fund undergraduate education for servicemembers - eight college semesters of tuition, fees, books, room and board, and other educational costs (commensurate with costs paid by non-veterans). The education grant also can be used for specialized trade or technical training, and certification and licensing programs for both veterans and disabled veterans. Participants will not be required to pay into the program to receive grants.
- Increase Veterans Housing Opportunities. The act will exempt Veterans from paying loan fees and expand opportunities for veterans to purchase, build, repair or improve a home by increasing access to low interest loans through the Veterans Affairs Home Loan Guaranty Loan Program for homes valued up to $625,000. The current program requires loan fees and is capped at the conforming loan rate of $417,000.
- Increase Veterans Entrepreneurial Opportunities. The Clinton-Murphy bill would establish a Veterans Microloan Program, administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Small Business Administration. The program would provide Veterans microloans for entrepreneurial ventures up to $100,000 with interest rates capped at 2.5 percent and without requiring collateral. The program would also direct the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide Veterans counseling, technical assistance, and community outreach assistance.
[Source: Sen. Clinton Press Release 16 May 07 ++]


TATTOO LASER REMOVAL: It is estimated that close to 10% of the U.S. population has some sort of tattoo. Eventually, as many as 50% of them want to have laser tattoo removal. Newer laser tattoo removal techniques can eliminate your tattoo with minimal side effects. Here's how it works: lasers remove tattoos by breaking up the pigment colors of the tattoo with a high-intensity light beam. Black tattoo pigment absorbs all laser wavelengths, making it the easiest to treat. Other colors can only be treated by selected lasers based upon the pigment color. Because each tattoo is unique, removal techniques must be tailored to suit each individual case. In the past, tattoos could be removed by a wide variety of methods but, in many cases, the scars were more unsightly than the tattoo itself. Patients with previously treated tattoos may also be candidates for laser therapy. Tattoos that have not been effectively removed by other treatments or through home remedies may respond well to laser therapy providing the prior treatments did not result in excessive scarring.

You want to make sure you find a reputable dermatologist or cosmetic surgery center to ensure proper treatment and care. If possible, you should obtain a recommendation from your family physician for a dermatologist or skin surgery center that specializes in tattoo removal. Depending on the size and color of your tattoo, the number of treatments will vary. Your tattoo may be removed in two to four visits, though many more sessions may be necessary. You should schedule a consultation, during which time a trained professional will evaluate your personal situation and advise you on the process. Treatment with the laser varies from patient to patient depending on the age, size and type of tattoo (amateur or professional). The color of the patient's skin, as well as the depth to which the tattoo pigment extends, will also affect the removal technique.

In general, this is what will happen during an office visit for tattoo removal using the newer lasers:
- Protective eye shields are placed on the patient.
- The skin's reaction to the laser is tested to determine the most effective energy for treatment.
- The treatment itself consists of placing a hand piece against the surface of the skin and activating the laser light. As many patients describe it, each pulse feels like a grease splatter or the snapping of a rubber band against the skin.
- Smaller tattoos require fewer pulses while larger ones require more. In either case, the tattoo requires several treatments and multiple visits. At each treatment, the tattoo should become progressively lighter.
- Immediately following treatment, an ice pack is applied to soothe the treated area. The patient will then be asked to apply a topical antibiotic cream or ointment. A bandage or patch will be used to protect the site and it should likewise be covered with a sun block when out in the sun.

Most patients do not require any anesthesia. However, depending on the location of the tattoo and the pain threshold for the patient, the physician may elect to use some form of anesthesia (topical anesthesia cream, painkiller injections at the site of the procedure). There are minimal side effects to tattoo removal by lasers. However, you should consider these factors in your decision:
- The tattoo removal site is at risk for infection. You may also risk lack of complete pigment removal, and there is a slight chance that the treatment can leave you with a permanent scar.
- You may also hypopigmentation, where the treated skin is paler than surrounding skin, or hyperpigmentation, where the treated skin is darker than surrounding skin.
- Cosmetic tattoos like lip liner, eyeliner and eyebrows may darken following treatment with tattoo removal lasers. Further treatment of the darkened tattoos usually results in fading.

Thanks to newer technology, treatment of tattoos with laser systems has become much more effective with very little risk of scarring. Laser treatment is often safer than many traditional methods such as excision, dermabrasion or salabrasion (i.e. using moist gauze pads saturated with a salt solution to abrade the tattooed area) because of its unique ability to selectively treat pigment involved in the tattoo.
Since tattoo removal is a personal option in most cases and is considered a cosmetic procedure, most insurance carriers will not cover the process unless it is medically necessary. Physicians or surgery centers practicing tattoo removal may also require payment in full on the day of the procedure. If you are considering tattoo removal, be sure to discuss associated costs up front with the physician, and obtain all charges in writing before you undergo any treatment. Note: The information provided here is designed to provide general information only and is not a replacement for a physician's advice. For details pertaining to your specific case, arrange a consultation with a physician experienced in the use of tattoo lasers. [Source: WebMD article 25 May 07 Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic, Department of Dermatology ++]


JETS FOR VETS: Freedom Is Not Free (FINF) is sponsoring a program called Jets for Vets in order to ease the burden of the cost of transportation for wounded military personnel and their families. The program enables volunteers to make would-be empty travel seats available on private jets to those wounded while serving. "Non-conforming" relatives such as fiancés, best friends, grandparents, and significant others who do not qualify for Department of Defense travel benefits may also take advantage of the program. For more information or to request a flight through the Jets for Vets Program, refer to http://www.freedomisnotfree.com/Partner ... spxwebsite. FINF is an a-political, non-partisan 501(C)3 non-profit organization registered with the Registry of Chartiable Trusts which receives no federal, state or governmental support or funding. [Source: NAUS Weekly Update for 25 May 07 ++]


AFRC VIRGINIA BEACH VA: The Army recently opened the Cape Henry Inn, a military-only resort in Virginia Beach VA. The Inn offers 120 rooms, two swimming pools, two outside cabanas, playgrounds and outside grills. The Army Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Command plan to expand the property over the next two years with additional rooms and conference facilities. Those individuals who are Active Duty, Retired, Reserve military, or DoD civilian must make reservations. For more information, visit the website http://www.capehenryinn.com/contact.htm or telephone the Inn at (757) 422-8818. [Source: NAUS Weekly Update for 25 May 07 ++]


MILITARY HEALTH CARE TF UPDATE 06: At a briefing before the Defense Health Board, the Task Force on the Future of Military Health Care revealed its support for higher Tricare premiums, fees and co-pays for military retirees under age 65. This DoD-appointed task force will formally release its interim report to Congress on 31 MAY. Although the specifics are not detailed, some of their preliminary recommendations are:
- Reviewing TRICARE contracts to ensure they contain the flexibility required to allow for inclusion of best business practices.
- Altering pharmacy incentives (including beneficiary copays) to encourage use of the lower-cost mail-order system.
- Rebalancing" beneficiary fees "at or below" the share of DoD costs they represented when TRICARE was implemented in 1996 (the co-chairs indicated beneficiaries under 65 paid 11% of DoD costs in 1996 vs. 4% today; DoD leaders previously cited those figures as 27% and 14%, respectively).
- Phasing in beneficiary fee increases over 3 to 5 years.
- Establishing a formula for regular fee increases in the future.
- Increasing the catastrophic expense cap (currently $1,000 for active duty families and $3,000 for retiree/survivor families).
- Establishing a tiered fee structure, with members in higher grades paying larger fees.
- Requiring independent audits to ensure TRICARE pays only after any other insurance available to beneficiaries has paid.

In announcing preliminary recommendations, Co-chair Gail Wilensky noted the importance of increasing fees yet ensuring premiums would not be more of a burden for retirees and families than fee levels were when Tricare was started in 1996. The co-chair suggested that Congress consider a one-time boost in military pay to help soften the blow. Some of the other recommendations include a full review of DoD pharmaceutical acquisition procedures, regular audits of the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS), and closer screening of patients by MTF personnel for other health insurance coverage. [Source: MOAA Leg Up 25 May 07 ++]


VETERAN LEGISLATION 2007 UPDATE 02: The House passed six bills before the Memorial Day recess to expand benefits and services for veterans. The bills now move to the Senate for consideration. A brief description is provided below:
- HR 0067 establishes a grant program for state veterans outreach activities.
- HR 0612 extends eligibility for health care for combat service in the Persian Gulf or future hostilities from two years to five years after discharge or release.
- HR 1470 requires VA to provide chiropractic care and services at all medical centers by 2011.
- HR 1660 directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery for veterans in the southern Colorado region.
- HR 2199 authorizes five new research centers for the treatment of individuals with traumatic brain injuries. It also authorizes $7.5 million for a pilot program of mobile veterans' centers to improve access to readjustment counseling for returning veterans.
- HR 2239 expands eligibility for vocational rehabilitation benefits to servicemembers awaiting medical discharge.
[Source: VFW Washington Weekly 25 May 07 ++]


VA CLINIC OPENINGS UPDATE 04: Secretary of Veterans Affairs Jim Nicholson on 29 MAY announced plans to open 38 new clinics in 22 states. The new facilities, called community-based outpatient clinics, or CBOCs, will become operational by October 2008. Local VA officials will keep communities and their veterans informed of milestones in the creation of the new CBOCs. VA's Proposed Sites for the New Outpatient Clinics are:

Alabama -- Childersburg
Arkansas -- Pine Bluff
Florida -- Jackson & Putnam
Georgia – Camden County & Stockbridge City
Idaho -- North Idaho
Indiana -- Elkhart County & Knox
Iowa -- Carroll, Cedar Rapids, Marshalltown & Shenandoah
Kansas -- Hutchison
Kentucky -- Madison (Berea), Daviess & Grayson County
Maryland -- Andrews Air Force Base & Ft. Detrick
Michigan -- Alpena County & Clare County
Missouri -- Branson &Jefferson City
Montana -- Cut Bank & Lewistown
Nebraska -- Bellevue
Ohio -- Hamilton & Parma
South Carolina -- Aiken & Spartanburg
South Dakota -- Wagner & Watertown
Tennessee -- Hawkins & Madison
Utah -- Western Salt Lake Valley
Virginia -- Charlottesville
Washington -- Northwest
West Virginia -- Monongalia
[Source: VA Press Release 29 May 07 ++]


GOLD STAR PARENTS ANNUITY ACT: In remarks on 24 MAY to the Gold Star Wives of America, Sen. Hillary Clinton announced that she will reintroduce legislation in the Senate to create a special monthly pension of $125 for Gold Star parents - surviving mothers and fathers whose sons or daughters lost their lives while serving in the Armed Forces during a period of war. Under the Clinton's bill, the monthly stipend would be for life and would be in addition to any other pension or benefit to which they may be entitled. Clinton introduced the Gold Star Parents Annuity Act in the 108th and 109th Congresses and co-sponsored a previous version of the Gold Star Parents Annuity Act when that legislation was introduced during the 107th Congress by former Senator Max Cleland. [Source: Sen. Clinton Press Release 24 May 07 ++]


PASSPORT OBTAINMENT UPDATE 01: A passport is an internationally recognized travel document that verifies the identity and nationality of the bearer. A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave most foreign countries. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue or verify United States passports. For info on obtaining a passport refer to http://www.travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html. Five Things to Know About Passports are:

1. At present a passport is not needed for land or sea travel to the Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada or Mexico.
2. There is a lot of information available on-line at the State Department’s consular affairs web site www.travel.state.gov -- what you need to bring when you apply for a passport, how to check the status of your application after it is submitted and how to send an e-mail to Passport Services if you have additional questions or need to communicate with them about the status of your application.
3. The State Department is receiving a very large number of telephone calls from customers right now. To address this, they have dispatched additional temporary staff to their call center. If you are traveling or need your passport in order to get a visa within the next two weeks, call 1(877) 487-2778. Representatives are available from 07-2400 M-F EST except holidays.
4. Routine processing time for a passport is now about ten weeks. Expedited processing is about four weeks. The Department is doing everything possible ina an attempt to bring those times back to their normal six weeks and two weeks respectively.
5. There is an optional question on the passport application asking for departure date and destination. If filled out it It helps to get the passport to customers in time for their trip.
[Source: Rep. Cathy Rodgers (R-WA-05) website May 07 ++]


STATE VETERANS HOME PROGRAM UPDATE 01: Legislation which would allow the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to take a new approach to the long-term care needs of veterans was introduced this week by U.S. Senator Larry Craig. The goal of the State Veterans Home Modernization Act (S.1441) is to transition the state home program from one focused heavily on beds to one that offers flexibility for home and community-based care. According to data by the Department of Veterans Affairs, at the current rate of Congressional funding, it will take nine years to fund all of the new state home construction projects currently on VA’s list. Craig said, “That doesn’t include any new applications. But even as we move to build more facilities, I fear if we don’t begin to transition to a more non-institutional family-focused approach to care, we may find ourselves 15 years from now, staring at thousands of empty state home beds wondering what to do with half of them." He noted that modern technology and newer long-term care approaches already enable people to live at home longer and happier. "It used to be that when people reached a certain age, the only option was a nursing home. Now the general public is using assisted living facilities, where seniors can live in their own apartments but have professional help nearby as needed. Craig said, “Americans are able to live at home using professionals who come by, once a day or a few times a week. We need to allow state homes to have that same kind of options when thinking of providing care to veterans. My legislation will allow them that flexibility." [Source: Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs Press Release 23 May 07 ++]


TRICARE UNIFORM FORMULARY UPDATE 19: Selected medications are continuing on the TRICARE Uniform Formulary and 10 others have been designated as nonformulary (or third tier) effective 1 AUG 07, announced Army MG Elder Granger, Tricare Management Activity deputy director. The following drugs as reported in Update 18 will have nonformulary (or third tier) status: Sonata, Roserem; Ambien CR, Ultram ER, Travatan, Travatan Z; Istalol, Betimol, and Emsam. For a complete list of the status and effective date see the TRICARE press release at http://www.tricare.mil/pressroom/news.aspx?fid=282. First-tier medications (formulary generics) are available through a Tricare Retail Pharmacy for $3 copays for up to a 30-day supply, and through the Tricare Mail Order Pharmacy (TMOP) for $3 copays for up to a 90-day supply. Beneficiaries may purchase second-tier medications (formulary brand-name) for $9 for up to the same number of days through a Tricare Retail Network Pharmacy or through the TMOP. By using TMOP, beneficiaries may save up to 66% on prescriptions. Beneficiary cost-shares in non-network pharmacies are higher.

Beneficiaries taking third-tier medications may consult their health care providers about changing to a first- or second-tier alternative. When providers prescribe medications, beneficiaries should ask if a generic alternative is available that would provide the same clinical results in that drug class. Beneficiaries can also ask providers if establishing medical necessity for the third-tier medication is appropriate. If medical necessity is established for a third-tier medication, the co-payment is reduced to $9. Third-tier medications are not available at military treatment facility (MTF) pharmacies unless an MTF provider establishes medical necessity and writes the prescription. Medical necessity forms and criteria are available at www.tricare.mil/pharmacy/medical-nonformulary.cfm. For a complete list of medications, their formulary status and where they are available refer to www.tricareformularysearch.org/dod/medi ... fault.aspx. For information on the Tricare Retail Pharmacy and locations, and TMOP refer to www.express-scripts.com/TRICARE or call (866) 363-8779 for the retail pharmacy or (866) 363-8667 for the mail order pharmacy. For information about the Uniform Formulary Beneficiary Advisory Panel review process, visit http://www.tricare.mil/pharmacy/BAP. [Source: DoD MHS Press Room News 9 May 07 ++]


AVANDIA SAFETY ALERT: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is aware of a potential safety issue related to Avandia (rosiglitazone), a drug approved to treat type 2 diabetes. Safety data from controlled clinical trials have shown that there is a potentially significant increase in the risk of heart attack and heart-related deaths in patients taking Avandia. However, other published and unpublished data from long-term clinical trials of Avandia, including an interim analysis of data from the RECORD trial (a large, ongoing, randomized open label trial) and unpublished reanalysis of data from DREAM (a previously conducted placebo-controlled, randomized trial) provide contradictory evidence about the risks in patients treated with Avandia. Patients who are taking Avandia, especially those who are known to have underlying heart disease or who are at high risk of heart attack should talk to their doctor about this new information as they evaluate the available treatment options for their type 2 diabetes.

FDA's analyses of all available data are ongoing. FDA has not confirmed the clinical significance of the reported increased risk in the context of other studies. Pending questions include whether the other approved treatment from the same class of drugs, pioglitazone, has less, the same or greater risks. Furthermore, there is inherent risk associated with switching patients with diabetes from one treatment to another even in the absence of specific risks associated with particular treatments. For these reasons, FDA is not asking GlaxoSmithKline, the drug's sponsor, to take any specific action at this time. FDA is providing this emerging information to prescribers so that they, and their patients, can make individualized treatment decisions.

Avandia was approved in 1999 for treatment of type 2 diabetes, a serious and life threatening disease that affects about 18 to 20 million Americans. Diabetes is a leading cause of coronary heart disease, blindness, kidney failure and limb amputation. Since the drug was approved, FDA has been monitoring several heart-related adverse events (e.g., fluid retention, edema and congestive heart failure) based on signals seen in previous controlled clinical trials of Avandia alone and in combination with other drugs, and from postmarketing reports. FDA has updated the product's labeling on several occasions to reflect these new data, most recently in 2006. The most recent labeling change for Avandia also included a new warning about a potential increase in heart attacks and heart-related chest pain in some individuals using Avandia. This new warning was based on the result of a controlled clinical trial in patients with existing congestive heart failure.

Recently, the manufacturer of Avandia provided FDA with a pooled analysis (meta analysis) of 42 randomized, controlled clinical trials in which Avandia was compared to either placebo or other anti-diabetic therapies in patients with type 2 diabetes. The pooled analysis suggested that patients receiving short-term (most studies were 6-months duration) treatment with Avandia may have a 30-40% greater risk of heart attack and other heart-related adverse events than patients treated with placebo or other anti-diabetic therapy. These data, if confirmed, would be of significant concern since patients with diabetes are already at an increased risk of heart disease. Avandia is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline, which is based in Research Triangle Park, N.C. [Source: FDA Press Release 21 May 07 ++]


AO & PROSTRATE CANCER: A new study shows exposure to Agent Orange (AO) in the Vietnam War appears to boost veterans' risk for a recurrence of prostate cancer even after the organ is surgically removed. And if the cancer does return, it tends to be more aggressive among veterans exposed to AO than in those not exposed to the chemical defoliant. Black veterans are especially vulnerable to these tough-to-treat recurrences. Lead researcher Dr. Sagar Shah, a urology resident physician at the Medical College of Georgia, will present his team’s findings at the annual meeting of the American Urological Association, in Anaheim CA. He noted that Vietnam veterans PSAs [prostate specific antigen levels] should be checked regularly and that they be screened aggressively for prostate cancer. The sooner it is identified the more treatment options are available.

Exposure to dioxin and AO has long been linked to increased risks for a variety of malignancies, including leukemia’s, lymphomas, prostate cancer and lung tumors, according to Phil Kraft, program director for the National Veterans Services Fund, which lobbies on behalf of U.S. veterans. AO contains dioxin, which, Shah said, "isn't really a tumor mutagen -- it doesn't cause cancer -- but it is a tumor-promoter. So, if the cancer is there, it makes it more prominent." In the new study, Shah's team sought to determine if there were any differences in the rate or type of prostate cancer recurrences seen among a group of 1,653 black and white Vietnam veterans -- 199 of whom had been exposed to Agent Orange. All of the veterans were treated after first being diagnosed with prostate cancer between 1990 and 2006. Their treatment included surgical removal of the prostate gland. Examination of biopsy samples under a microscope showed no pathological differences between the tumors of men exposed to Agent Orange and those who were not exposed. Differences did emerge, however, when the researchers compared rates of "biochemical recurrence."

Biochemical recurrence means that blood levels of the marker prostate-specific antigen (produced by prostate cancer cells) rose sharply and steadily in the months after surgery. Doctors routinely test men for their blood levels of PSA to help spot prostate cancer. In this study, the shorter the time it took for a man's PSA level to double, the more aggressive his cancer appeared to be. Veterans exposed to AO had a higher relative risk of having a biochemical recurrence than unexposed veterans. The researchers found the rate of post-surgical prostate cancer recurrence among white veterans rose by 42% if they had been exposed to AO, compared to non-exposed veterans, Black veterans exposed to the herbicide fared even less well, with a recurrence rate that was 75% higher than their non-exposed peers. And when prostate cancer did recur among veterans exposed to AO, "it seemed that they had a much shorter PSA doubling time, a surrogate for aggressiveness," Shah said. Among black men with a cancer recurrence, PSA levels doubled in just nine months for those exposed to AO, compared to 16 months for those unexposed to the toxin.

“Why might black Vietnam veterans be most vulnerable? Numerous studies conducted among the general population have already suggested that genetics or other factors put black American men at higher prostate cancer risk compared to whites. In addition, black troops serving in Vietnam were also more likely to have higher levels of exposure than whites. They were more likely to be ground troops and less likely to be officers away from AO exposure," Shah said. He stressed that the study did not look at recurrence rates for prostate cancer patients treated with methods other than surgery -- for example, with radiation. "We just don't know about those outcomes," he said.

In a separate study the June 2007 issue of Harvard Men's Health Watch reported researchers have found that men between ages 40 and 64 who drink an average of four to seven glasses of red wine per week are only 52% as likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer as those who do not drink red wine. In addition, red wine appears particularly protective against advanced or aggressive cancers. Even low consumption amounts seemed to help, and for every additional glass of red wine per week, the relative risk declined by 6%. Many doctors are reluctant to recommend drinking alcohol for health, fearing that their patients might assume that if a little alcohol is good, a lot might be better. The Harvard Men's Health Watch notes that men who enjoy alcohol and can drink in moderation and responsibly may benefit from a lower risk of heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and cardiac death. [Source: Washington Post Health Day E.J. Mundell article 20 May 07 ++]

[boardman]

VA CLAIM BACKLOG UPDATE 08: U.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln (D-AR) announced that her proposal to help our nation's veterans receive the benefits they have earned and deserve has been included in a final budget agreement. Lincoln's provision provides the VA an additional $70 million to address the growing backlog of pending disability compensation claims. The provision addresses the growing backlog of pending disability claims by providing $65.4 million to hire an additional 600 disability claims processors. The amendment also provides $4.1 million to hire an additional 32 processors for the Board of Veterans Appeals and provides the one-year cost for increased training resources and quality measures with $400,000 for Training and Performance Support Systems and $400,000 for Skills Certification. Last year, the backlog of pending compensation and pension claims was 586,008. The most time-consuming and labor-intensive claims to process are the disability claims, which require ratings decisions. The number of disability claims received by the VA has increased nearly 23% since 2000. Last year, the backlog of disability claims was at 371,839. Today, it has grown to 405,536.

The Bush budget proposal requested 8,320 direct compensation full-time employees (FTE), an increase of 457 FTE over last year's request. Lincoln's provision provides an additional 600 direct compensation FTE to allow the Board of Veterans Appeals (BVA) to more effectively address the growing backlog of pending disability claims as well as its current incoming workload. As the VA receives and adjudicates more claims, the result will be a larger number of appeals which will make it more difficult for them to address its growing backlog of claims. BVA staff has decreased since 2001 in spite of the number of cases it receives growing by 82.5%. It is estimated to reach 40,000 at the end of 2007. With current staffing the appeals resolution time is estimated to increase to 700 days next year. The Bush budget proposal recommended an increase of $2.5 million (totaling $58.5 million) to hire an additional 31 FTE to cope with the increases. The Lincoln proposal increases this to $4.1 million to bring the BVA's FTE level to approximately 500 and would allow the BVA to better handle its incoming caseload, improve its timeliness, and reduce its existing backlog. [Source: Sen. Lincoln Press Release 17 May 07 ++]


VA CBI: The National Office of Compliance and Business Integrity (CBI) and the National Center for Ethics in Health Care joined together to celebrated National Compliance and Ethics Week, 20-26 MAY. National Corporate Compliance and Ethics Week is an industry tradition celebrated by health care systems across the country. The goal is to raise awareness of Compliance and Business Integrity (CBI) and IntegratedEthics (IE) throughout VA. CBI provides reasonable assurance that VHA’s business operations follow all applicable laws, regulations and policies and promote standards of excellence in business practices. CBI operates a help-line service (866) 842-4357 where VA employees, veterans or their family members can report alleged compliance incidents for investigation. IE builds on VA’s reputation for quality and innovation in health care. It paves the way for ethics quality to encompass all levels of health care quality through a national, systematic, integrated approach to ethics in health care. [Source: Secretary of VA VSO Liaison article 21 May 07++]


TMOP UPDATE 06: Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-09) wants the Pentagon to find ways to cut its pharmacy costs without penalizing beneficiaries. The Defense Department has complained repeatedly that most retirees obtain their medications through retail outlets, which is far more expensive to the government than Tricare's mail-order pharmacy (TMOP) system. To date, the Pentagon's only proposal to change that behavior has been to propose raising retail pharmacy copays by nearly 70% to try to drive more beneficiaries to use the mail-order system. Rep. Bilirakis has introduced H.R.2319, a bill that would require the Pentagon to test a positive-incentive approach. It calls for a two-year pilot program, starting by MAR 08, under which at least 2,000 beneficiaries who currently use only retail pharmacies would be offered free access to the mail-order system to refill prescriptions for their maintenance medications. Participants would be shown how much that would have saved them over the previous year, and would be provided information on how to enroll in the mail-order program to have the medications delivered to their door at no cost. Bilirakis' bill would require DoD to work with beneficiary associations to develop the details of this "beneficiary-friendly" program. The Secretary of Defense would have to report to Congress on the results of the program, including surveys of beneficiary satisfaction and data on cost savings of the program for beneficiaries and the government. If the Pentagon is serious about saving money on pharmacy costs, it should be willing to expend a little planning effort and 41 cents in postage to generate hundreds (or in many cases, thousands) of dollars in savings for each participating beneficiary. [Source: MOAA Leg Up 18 May 07 ++]


NDAA 2008 UPDATE 02: As the House of Representatives prepared to pass its fiscal 2008 defense authorization bill, the White House urged lawmakers to reconsider a host of costly personnel initiatives added by the Armed Services Committee. In spite of this all were included in the House proposal. Initiatives opposed by the White House included:

1.) Bigger pay raises. The House voted for a 3.5% basic pay increase for January 2008 which was 0.5% higher than proposed by the Bush administration. The House would continue a string of annual raises set 0.5% higher than private sector wage growth through at least 2012. The White House’s 16 MAY OMB letter to committee leaders in a “Statement of Administration Policy” said a 3% raise next January would be enough to keep military pay competitive. Budget officials complained the unnecessary extra half-percentage bump in pay would cost $265 million in 2008 and $7.3 billion over six years. When combined with the overall military benefit package, the President’s proposal provides a good quality of life for servicemembers and their families. Both House Republicans and Democrats disagreed. Rep. Thelma Drake (R-VA) offered the amendment, adopted by the armed services committees, to stretch the string of bigger raises out to 2012.

2.) Higher Tricare fees. The White House was disappointed that the House bill did not allow Defense officials to raise Tricare fees and co-payments for retired military beneficiaries under 65 or allow implementation of some new set of cost-containment actions expected to be recommended soon by the DOD-appointed Task Force on the Future of Military Health Care. The administration said fee increases are needed to sustain a high-quality health care benefit by largely capturing the inflation increases that have occurred since cost sharing was first established in 1996.” Blocking any such initiatives this year would add $1.86 billion to military health costs in 2008 and more than $19 billion through 2013. The House bill also would restore $200 million in health care spending that Defense officials sought to remove through unspecified efficiency wedges imposed on service medical budgets.

3.) Fair pricing. The administration strongly opposed a provision in the House bill to require drug manufacturers to give the Defense Department the same price discounts on drugs dispensed through the Tricare retail network that they provide to base pharmacies, the Tricare mail order pharmacy and VA clinics and hospitals. The White House said market competition, not government price control, is the most effective way to promote discounts. Rep. Steve Buyer (R-IN), reiterated that argument on the House floor. He said price-setting in Tricare retail pharmacies will eliminate retail competition and, in time, endanger drug discounts for veterans using VA health care.

4.) Reserve GI Bill. The administration opposed a provision that would transfer oversight for the Reserve Montgomery GI Bill from the Department of Defense to the Department of Veterans Affairs. Proponents say it is a first step toward raising reserve GI bill benefits and increasing them in future years in concert with VA-provided active duty GI Bill benefits. The White House said the change would mean DOD loses control of a critical incentive program for reserve recruiting and retention.

The House subsequently passed its version of the FY08 National Defense Authorization Act inclusive of those items opposed by the White House by a vote of 397-27. The Senate Armed Services Committee will mark up its version of the defense authorization bill is JUN. That committee is said to be more supportive of the administration’s view that military pay is competitive now and will stay competitive with a 3% raise in JAN 08. The final version of the NDAA will be written in a conference committee made up of members from the House and Senate after the Senate passes its FY 2008 NDAA. [Source: Stars & Stripes Tom Philpott article 19 May 07 ++]


NDAA 2008 UPDATE 03: The House of Representatives spent two days and approved more than 40 amendments before finally passing the FY2008 Defense Authorization Bill on 17 MAY by a 397-27 vote. Some of the amendments adopted would:

- Extend the military pay raise plus-ups (3.5% raise in 2008 and raises that are one-half percentage point larger than the average American's for 2009-2012) to also include uniformed members of the Coast Guard, Public Health Service and NOAA Corps (Rep. Drake, R-VA).
- Require increased family support and mental health services for National Guard and Reserve personnel (Rep. Braley, D-IA).
- Let employees who are family members of mobilized military personnel use family medical leave to deal with issues arising from that call to duty (Rep. Altmire, D-PA).
- Authorize Guard and Reserve members up to 10 years after leaving service to use GI Bill benefits (Rep. Carney, D-PA).
- Authorize vouchers for free mail delivery [less than 10 lbs] to military personnel in Iraq or Afghanistan or hospitalized in military facilities. (Rep. Altmire, D-PA/Rep. Udall, D-NM).
- Bar simultaneous deployment of both military parents to a combat zone when the military couple has minor dependents (Rep. LaHood, R-IL).
- Bar courts from changing child custody orders while a servicemember is deployed, other than temporary orders issued in the best interest of the child. Original custody order to be reinstated upon the member's redeployment (Rep. Turner, R-OH).

Other significant provisions in the Defense bill, in addition to those already mentioned would:
- Guarantee funding for Walter Reed to protect against skimping on facilities for this closing installation.
- Require at least 30 days advance notice, and preferably 90 days, for Guard and Reserve members scheduled for deployment (can be waived during times of national emergency).
- Authorize DoD to make servicemembers' Thrift Savings Account deposits twice a month (i.e., from mid-month paycheck) rather than the current once per month.
- Authorize the service to pay part or all of the premium to continue a Guard/Reserve member's employer-provided health coverage when a dependent has special health care needs that are best served by continuing that coverage.
- Ease naturalization/visa issues for nonresident alien spouses/children of members assigned overseas by treating such periods of overseas assignment as residence within the United States.
- Require the Defense Finance and Accounting Service to ease stresses on survivors of members who die of service-connected causes by simplifying and clarifying SBP annuity recoupment and premium refund processes.
- Authorize surviving spouses that are also in receipt of the VA's dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC) a monthly payment of $40 beginning on October 1, 2008.
- Expand eligibility to include chapter 61 (disability) retirees with at least 15 years of service and at least a 60% combat-related disability rating.
- Increase Army end-strength by 36,000; Marine Corps levels by 9,000; and Army National Guard by 1,300.
- Authorize $50 million in aid to school districts impacted by military populations, with an additional $15 million for districts affected by base closures or other military population changes.
- Authorize the Secretary of Defense to reimburse drilling Guard and Reserve members up to $300 per training session for travel costs to drill locations outside commuting distance, effective Oct. 1, 2008.
- Make the Guard chief a four-star position.
[Source: MOAA Leg Up 18 May 07 ++]


RESERVE RETIREMENT AGE UPDATE 10: In adherence to a “pay go” rule the House would not consider an amendment to the FY08 NDAA that would have included Rep. Latham’s legislation, (H.R. 1428), to lower the 60 year age for receipt of retired pay by 3 months for every aggregate 90 days of deployment during a fiscal year. House rules would not allow the language to be considered without offsetting deductions from other existing military retirement benefits that would fund the projected $400 million dollar cost of the bill. Unless the House leadership is willing to waive the blanket “pay go” rule that is blocking these legislative efforts, or the bill’s sponsors can identify offsets, the House will not proceed on this issue Representative Saxton and the co-sponsors of of his bill H.R. 690 to reduce the minimum age for receipt of military retired pay for non-regular service from 60 to 55 did not seek an amendment to the FY08 NDAA that would have included the provisions of the Saxton bill. Senator Chambliss’ version of the bill, S.648, still has life in that chamber. [Source: NGAUS Leg Up 18 May 07 ++]


VET CEMETERY COLORADO: On 15 MAY the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee unanimously passed U.S. Rep. John Salazar’s (D-CO-03) national cemetery bill H.R.1660 out of committee. The bill creates a new national cemetery for Southern Colorado veterans that would be located in the Pikes Peak region. Currently, the state has the Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver and the Fort Lyon National Cemetery near Las Animas. The Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that there are approximately 150,000 veterans located in Southern Colorado. For years, veterans groups have listed the addition of a cemetery in Southern Colorado as one of their top priorities. Salazar, the only military veteran in the Colorado congressional delegation, has met with local veterans groups to build support for this legislation. Several veterans’ organizations have endorsed the Salazar bill including the Colorado chapters of the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Paralyzed Veterans of America, and the Association for Service Disabled Veterans. H.R. 1660, now moves to the House floor for consideration. [Source: Rep. Salazar Press Release 15 May 07 ++]


GULF WAR SYNDROME UPDATE 03: Scientists working with the Defense Department have found evidence that a low-level exposure to sarin nerve gas could have caused lasting brain deficits in former service members. The study, financed by the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) and the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is the first to use Pentagon data on potential exposure levels faced by the troops and magnetic resonance imaging to scan the brains of military personnel in the exposure zone. Though the results are preliminary, the study is notable for being financed by the federal government and for being the first to make use of a detailed analysis of sarin exposure performed by the Pentagon, based on wind patterns and plume size. The report, to be published in the June issue of the journal NeuroToxicology, found apparent changes in the brain’s connective tissue (its so-called white matter) in soldiers exposed to the gas. The study found the extent of the brain changes corresponded to the extent of exposure (i.e. less white matter and slightly larger brain cavities). White matter volume varies by individual, but studies have shown that significant shrinkage in adulthood can be a sign of damage.

Previous studies had suggested that exposure affected the brain in some neural regions, but the evidence was not convincing to many scientists. The new report is likely to revive the long-debated question of why so many troops returned from that war with unexplained physical problems. Many in the scientific community have questioned whether the so-called gulf war illnesses have a physiological basis, and far more research will have to be done before it is known whether those illnesses can be traced to exposure to sarin. The long-term effects of sarin on the brain are still not well understood. But several lawmakers who were briefed on the study say the DVA is now obligated to provide increased neurological care to veterans who may have been exposed. Phil Budahn, a spokesman for the DVA, said the research required further examination. “It’s important to note that its authors describe the study as inconclusive,” Mr. Budahn said, adding, “It was based upon a small number of participants, who were not randomly chosen.”

In March 1991, a few days after the end of the gulf war, American soldiers exploded two large caches of ammunition and missiles in Khamisiyah, Iraq. Some of the missiles contained the dangerous nerve gases sarin and cyclosarin. Based on wind patterns and the size of the plume, the Department of Defense has estimated that more than 100,000 American troops may have been exposed to at least small amounts of the gases. When the roughly 700,000 deployed troops returned home, about one in seven began experiencing a mysterious set of ailments, often called gulf war illnesses, with problems including persistent fatigue, chronic headaches, joint pain and nausea. According to the DVA those symptoms persist today for more than 150,000 of them, , more than the number of troops exposed to the gases. Advocates for veterans have argued for more than a decade and a half that a link exists between many of these symptoms and the exposure that occurred in Khamisiyah, but evidence has been limited. [Source: The New York Times Ian Urbina article 17 May 07 ++]


VA BONUSES UPDATE 02: Rep. John Hall (D-NY-19), chairman of the House Veterans’ Affairs disability assistance subcommittee has introduced the Pay Veterans First Act H.R. 2292. It is a response to the recent revelation that senior executive at the VA received $3.8 million in performance bonuses in 2006. Hall said in a statement, “It is shocking and scandalous even by the VA’s own low standards that top officials at the VA would be getting the most lucrative performance bonuses in government when there is a backlog of over 600,000 benefits claims. It is simply unacceptable that veterans are waiting longer and longer for benefits they desperately need while senior staff members in charge of bad policy are rewarded with so-called performance bonuses. These bonuses are a deeply flawed approach to the principle of pay for performance.”

Congressman Jack Space (D-OH-18) sent a letter to Secretary Nicholson outlining his disgust and lack of confidence. In it, Space asked for Nicholson’s immediate resignation. Documents obtained by the Associated Press raise questions of conflicts of interest or appearances of conflicts in connection with the bonuses since nearly two dozen officials who received hefty performance bonuses also sat on the boards charged with recommending the bonus payments. According to a report provided to Congress, one of the people receiving the biggest VA bonus last year, $33,000, was the deputy undersecretary for benefits, who Hall said is responsible for the system that has a backlog of more than 600,000 claims and takes an average of six months to issue an initial decision on a claim and as long as two years to decide an appeal. Hall’s bill would not force anyone to return bonuses already received, but would prevent 2007 bonuses from being awarded unless the claims backlog is substantially reduced. The bill would freeze 2007 bonuses for senior Department of Veterans Affairs employees until the backlog of veterans’ benefits claims is reduced below 100,000. Aides to Hall said this would give the VA until September, when performance awards are given, to make a big improvement in the claims process. [Source: NavyTimes Rick Maze article 15 May 07 ++]


STOLEN SSN USAGE: Victims of identity theft can have their benefits adversely affected a number of ways if anyone uses their social security number for fraudulent purposes. In addition to the risks it places on existing credit and bank accounts, use by an illegal immigrant to obtain work or open accounts will inflate a victim's actual income on which many of their benefits are based. Age and alien status are factors as to the degree they are affected if earnings are reported under their SSN. If it is suspected that someone has gained access or used your or a relative's number you must act quickly to report problems, correct SSA records and continue ongoing vigilance for new problems. Correcting an SSA record could take repeated attempts since some problems may not surface until years from now. Here's just a partial listing of what to watch out for:

- Benefit reductions due to excess earnings. Earnings showing up under a victim's Social Security number could subject those benefits to reductions. For those still under full retirement age, Social Security would withhold $1 in benefits for every $2 over $12,960 in annual earnings, ($1,080 per month).
- IRS audits and taxation of Social Security benefits. Added earnings that appear under a number could subject from 50% to as much as 85% of a victim's Social Security to tax if those earnings make income appear to be over $25,000 or more (single) or if over $32,000 (joint). Your first indication that there's any problem could be a notice from the IRS that you owe taxes.
- Letters saying victim's are no longer, or is not, eligible for "Extra Help" to cover prescription drug costs. "Extra Help" pays all or most of the monthly drug plan premiums and deductibles, much of the co-insurance, and provides coverage during the "doughnut hole" coverage gap for low-income seniors. If single and added earnings make monthly income appear to be over $1,276 (or $1,711 if married) then one could be mistakenly dropped from the program, or told they are not eligible.
- Notifications that victim's are no longer, or is not eligible for "Medicare Savings Programs". These programs cover the Medicare Part B premium deductible and co-insurance for certain low-income seniors. If added earnings make monthly income appear higher than $871 (single) or $1,l61 (joint) an individual could be mistakenly dropped from one of these programs, or told they are not eligible.
- Notifications that a victim must pay higher "income related" Medicare Part B premiums. It's not uncommon for more than one illegal immigrant to work under the same Social Security number. In one particularly egregious case cited by the Government Accountability Office, a single employer used one Social Security number for 2,580 W2's filed in a single tax year. Should the earnings make an individual's income appear to be over $80,000 (single) or $160,000 (couple) they could be mistakenly notified that they would have to pay substantially higher Medicare Part B premiums.
- Notifications that a victim is no longer eligible, or is not eligible, for other low-income programs. Earnings could also make your mother's income appear too high to qualify for Medicaid, food stamps, low-income housing subsidies, assistance to pay cooling and heating bills, in addition to state, local and private programs from which individuals may receive benefits.
- Reduction of VA widow pension benefit. By law VA must take in consideration all income, regardless of source, of a widow and offset the pension dollar for dollar until the other income exceeds the pension.

If you think someone is using you're a number for work purposes, contact Social Security. You or your relative can ask to check the associated Social Security Statement that lists earnings posted to SSN records. If an error is found on a statement, contact Social Security right away. Social Security's website, however, is not very encouraging about fixing problems. The publication, Identity Theft and Your Social Security Number (Publication No. 05-10064) states, "If you have done all you can to fix the problem and someone still is using your number, we may assign you a new number. We cannot guarantee that a new number will solve your problem." Call Social Security toll free at 1(800) 772-1213 or visit online at www.ssa.gov. Should you continue to have problems, contact your Congressional Representative or one of your Senators and ask for help. Each office has aides who handle constituent problems of this nature.

Legislation has been introduced that addresses this issue. . Sue Wilkins Myrick (R-NC-9) on 3 MAR 07 Rep introduced the Social Security Number Fraudulent Use Notification Act of 2007. If signed into law the Act would require the Social Security Commissioner to notify individuals of improper use of their social security account numbers by amending the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 405(c)(2)). Section 205(c)(2) to include a new subparagraph that reads, "In any case in which the Commissioner of Social Security determines that--
- (i) the Social Security account number in the wage records provided to the Social Security Administration by an employer with respect to any employee does not match relevant records otherwise maintained by the Social Security Administration, or
- (ii) the Social Security account number issued to an individual has otherwise been used by any other person in a fraudulent or otherwise illegal manner, the Commissioner shall promptly provide the individual (if any) to whom such Social Security account number was issued with written notification of the Commissioner's determination.". At present this bill has been referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means. With only six cosponsors to date it will likely never reach the floor of the House for a vote unless enough concerned citizens contact their Congressional representative and ask for their support. [Source: TREA Social Security and Medicare Advisor 16 May 07 ++]


MILITARY UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION: If you are a servicemember separating from active duty you may qualify for unemployment compensation if you are unable to find a new job. The Unemployment Compensation for Ex-service members (UCX) program provides benefits for eligible ex-military personnel. The program is administered by the States as agents of the Federal government. You are eligible if:
- You were on active duty with a branch of the U.S. military, you may be entitled to benefits based on that service.
- You must have been separated under honorable conditions.
- There is no payroll deduction from your wages for unemployment insurance protection. Benefits are paid for by the various branches of the military.

Receiving separation pay may also influence your receipt of unemployment compensation. Retirees will almost certainly receive a lesser amount [or no amount] since the weekly amount of retirement pay is usually "offset" against the amount of unemployment compensation. Your state employment office handles unemployment compensation. Benefits vary from state to state. Because of this, only the office where you apply will be able to tell you the amount and duration of your entitlement. The nearest state employment office is listed in your local telephone directory. To receive unemployment compensation, you must apply. The best time to do that is when you visit the Local Veterans Employment Representative (LVER) at the state employment services office for assistance in finding a new job. To apply for unemployment compensation, you must bring your Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty (DD Form 214), your Social Security Card and your civilian and military job history or resume.

Arkansas recently became the fifteenth state to provide eligibility for unemployment compensation for a military spouse who must terminate employment due to a military-required location of his or her family. The new law will take effect on 1 OCT 07. The states of South Carolina, New Jersey, and Connecticut are currently considering similar legislation. [Source: Military.com May 07 ++]


VA SUCCESS QUESTIONED: Citing VA’s own independent study, a widely-circulated article on 10 MAY by McClatchy Newspaper's writer Chris Adams reported that the Department of Veterans Affairs has habitually exaggerated the record of its medical system, inflating its achievements in ways that make it appear more successful than it is. The critical report noted that while the VA's health system has gotten very good marks for a transformation it's undertaken over the past decade, the department also has a habit of overselling its progress in ways that assure Congress and others that the agency has enough resources to care for the nation's soldiers. Although VA has boosted preventive care in a growing network of outpatient clinics and received glowing news coverage for the transformation, other data contradict the agency's statements on key issues of access, satisfaction and quality of care..... The article says that while experts inside and outside the VA point to studies showing the agency does a good job. McClatchy also found top VA officials buffing up those respectable results in ways that the evidence doesn't support. Among several discrepancies cited between VA assertions and substantiating evidence is Secretary Nicholson's statement to Congress in February describing VA's 'exceptional performance' in getting veterans in to see doctors. However, evidence from the VA itself indicates the record might be inflated.
On 14 May the Miami Herald, among others, reported Secretary Nicholson's response to the McClatchy article. Nicholson writes, "Re the May 10 story VA gets mixed record on aftercare: The historic transformation of the Department of Veterans Affairs' healthcare system has been lauded by the healthcare industry, professional journals, members of Congress, the media, foreign governments and veterans themselves.... The story makes a valid case that we need to be more careful with our numbers and public statements, but it does not challenge the basic truth about VA that our healthcare is a constant and shining emblem of how to reform a system for excellence. The McClatchy (5/10, Adams) article cited in the Secretary's letter charged that VA has "habitually exaggerated its record" and "inflat[ed] its achievements." [Source: Office of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs liaison VA News 15 May 07 ++]


VETERAN LEGISLATION STATUS 30 MAY 07: Congress is on recess for the Memorial Day Holiday. The House will reconvene at 1400 on 5 June and the Senate will reconvene at 1430 on 4 June. During the recess, a variety of committees hold field hearings on law enforcement information sharing, rural veterans’ issues, Chinese lumber, and sustainable water programs. for a listing of Congressional bills of interest to the veteran community that have been introduced in the 110th Congress refer to the Bulletin attachment. Support of these bills through cosponsorship by other legislators is critical if they are ever going to move through the legislative process for a floor vote to become law. A good indication on that likelihood is the number of cosponsors who have signed onto the bill. A cosponsor is a member of Congress who has joined one or more members in his/her chamber (i.e. House or Senate) to sponsor a bill or amendment. The first member to sign onto a bill is considered the sponsor. Members subsequently signing on are called cosponsors. Any number of members may cosponsor a bill in the House or Senate. At http://thomas.loc.gov you can review a copy of each bill, determine its current status, the committee it has been assigned to, and if your legislator is a sponsor or cosponsor of it. The key to increasing cosponsorship is letting our representatives know of veterans feelings on issues. At the end of some listed bills is a web link that can be used to do that. Otherwise, you can locate on http://thomas.loc.gov who your representative is and his/her phone number, mailing address, or email/website to communicate with a message or letter of your own making.


Lt. James "EMO" Tichacek, USN (Ret)
Director, Retiree Assistance Office, U.S. Embassy Warden & IRS VITA Baguio City RP
PSC 517 Box RCB, FPO AP 96517
Tel: (760) 839-9003 when in U.S. & Cell: 0915-361-3503 when in Philippines.
Email: raoemo@sbcglobal.net (Primary) & raoemo@mozcom.com (Alternate)
Web: http://post_119_gulfport_ms.tripod.com/rao1.html
AL/AMVETS/DAV/FRA/NAUS/NCOA/MOAA/USDR/VFW/VVA/CG33/DD890/AD37 member

[boardman]

RAO Bulletin Update 15 June 2007


THIS BULLETIN UPDATE CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING ARTICLES:

== Mobilized Reserve 13 June 07 ------------ (Net Increase 5636)
== Small Business Administration (03) --------- (Patriot Express Loans)
== DoD Disability Evaluation System (01) ------------ (Firms Volunteer)
== Parkinson’s Disease --------------- (Isradipine Treatment Promising)
== VA Bonuses (03) ---------------------------- (Acknowledges Problems)
== Wisconsin Vet Tuition Aid --------------- (Cuts Pending)
== VA Fraud -------------------------------------- (Defrauders Prosecuted)
== ID Card Copying (01) ---------------- (Tricare Providers Authorized)
== Vet Suicide --------------------------- (Twice non-Vet Rate)
== VA Suicide Call Center ---------------- (Sep/Oct Opening)
== AFRC Shades of Green (04) -------------------- (Vet Rooms Offered)
== NDAA 2008 (04) --------------------------- (Senate Debate Late JUN)
== WRAMC (10) --------------------------- (Road Ahead)
== Military Funeral Disorderly Conduct (08) ---------- (NH Legislation)
== Crime Victim Resource Overseas -------- (Crime Victim Assistance)
== Crime Victim Resources U.S. -------------- (Where to Go)
== VA Nursing Academy ------------------------------- (VA To Establish)
== VA Claim Fixers -------------------- (Jeopardizing Benefits)
== Medicare Fraud ----------------- ($142 Million)
== VDBC (17) --------------------- (Institute of Medicine Report)
== Medicare Reimbursement Rates 2008 ----------- (10% Cut Pending)
== Tricare Triwest RC Resource Center --------- (Website for Reserves)
== California Veteran’ Home (01) ---------- (West LA/Fresno/Redding)
== Prostrate Problems (02) ------------------ (Omega 3-Fatty Acids)
== Hurricane Preparedness ---------------- (Are you Ready?)
== VA Consolidated Mail-out Pharmacy ------------ (Major Expansion)
== Death Issues ---------------------- (Things to Consider)
== Military Health Care Growth (01) --- (DoD Overestimated Savings)
== New York Military Assistance -------------- (New Initiatives)
== POW/Missing Personnel Database ----------- (WWII Now Available)
== Twilight Brigade -------------------------- (Do Not Die Alone)
== Navy Sabbaticals --------------------- (Under Consideration)
== VA Health Care Funding (09) --------------------- (Increase Praised)
== Michigan Vet Cemetery (01) --------------------- (Dedicated 3 JUN)
== Kentucky Vet Home ---------------------------- (Completion by 2018)
== Ohio Veteran Services ------------------- (Ranks 43 of 50)
== Vet Cemetery Arkansas ---------------------- (Land Purchase Effort)
== Military Enlistment Tips ---------------- (How to proceed)
== Tax Burden by State ----------------------- (Rankings)
== Veteran Legislation Status 14 JUN 07 ------------ (Where We Stand)

Editor’s Note: Attached is a listing of veteran legislation with current cosponsor status that has been introduced in the 110th Congress. To see any of these bills passed into law representatives need input from their veteran constituents to instruct them on how to vote.


MOBILIZED RESERVE 13 JUNE 07: The Army, Air Force and Marine Corps announced the current number of reservists on active duty as of 30 MAY 07 in support of the partial mobilization. The net collective result is 5636 more reservists mobilized than last reported for 30 MAY 07. At any given time, services may mobilize some units and individuals while demobilizing others, making it possible for these figures to either increase or decrease. Total number currently on active duty in support of the partial mobilization for the Army National Guard and Army Reserve is 74,155; Navy Reserve, 5,102; Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, 6,169; Marine Corps Reserve, 6,200; and the Coast Guard Reserve, 358.This brings the total National Guard and Reserve personnel, who have been mobilized, to 91,984, including both units and individual augmentees. A cumulative roster of all National Guard and Reserve personnel, who are currently mobilized, can be found at http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Jun2007 ... 613ngr.pdf. [Source: DoD News Release 13 June 07 ++]


SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION UPDATE 03: With nearly a quarter of newly discharged veterans considering starting their own businesses, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Jim Nicholson praised a new Small Business Administration (SBA) venture to make business ownership easier for all veterans. The SBA has unveiled a program called “Patriot Express” that offers a wide variety of assistance to veterans interested in setting up or expanding their own small businesses. Assistance under the new SBA program for veterans ranges from help writing a business plan and managing a business, to obtaining financing and learning how to export goods. Participants may also qualify for loans between 2.25% and 4.75% over the prime interest rate. That computes to 10.5 to 13%. The program, offered through a network of lenders, will provide loans of up to $500,000. The SBA will guarantee up to 85% of loans below $150,000, and up to 75% of loans between $150,000 and $500,000. It also promises a fast turnaround for loan approvals and reduced paperwork. Loans can be used for starting or expanding a business, equipment or inventory purchases, working capital or business-related real estate acquisitions.

Patriot Express is open to veterans, reservists and National Guard members, current spouses of eligible personnel, the surviving spouses of service members who die on active duty, or spouses of veterans who die from a service-connected disability. Sen. John Kerry (D-MA), chairman of the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, said in response to the program's unveiling that he will work with the SBA to lower the interest rate and fees. Expanding veterans’ eligibility to SBA’s Patriot Express program was a key recommendation of a presidential task force on the needs of returning veterans that Nicholson chaired. Nicholson delivered the panel’s report to the White House on 23 APR. More information about the SBA program is available at the Small Business Administration’s Patriot Express website: http://www.sba.gov/patriotexpress. [Source: VA News Release 13 Jun 07 ++]


DOD DISABILITY EVALUATION SYSTEM UPDATE 01: Injured forces returning from Afghanistan and Iraq are going to get their own battalion of lawyers to represent their appeals to the military for health care and compensation. According to the Disabled American Veterans, three major Washington, D.C., law firms have volunteered legal representation at no cost for service men and women navigating through the disability and compensation system at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington and the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., the main U.S. hospitals receiving wounded soldiers off the battlefields. DAV also handles appeals for the troops, but is finding itself under a growing backlog and not sufficiently equipped to take appeals through the federal court system. DAV and other advocates have been complaining since the War on Terror began that seriously injured service men and women are being medically discharged because they are no longer fit for duty, but given such low disability ratings that they don't qualify for lifetime compensation and benefits, including health care coverage for themselves or their families. "It seems that not only are they not receiving the compensation they are entitled to," but any further access for themselves and their families to military health programs and facilities is cut off, said Ron Smith, deputy counsel for DAV. Smith said the backlog for discharging soldiers is long and the bureaucracy is often complex and loaded with pitfalls. Some soldiers wait more than a year to get out of medical hold, the limbo between deployable active duty status and discharge.

Danny Soto, a national service officer acting as an advocate for the soldiers and a liaison between DAV and Walter Reed, said much of the backlog is the result of an overload on the Physical Evaluation Board, which determines disability and compensation. The board plows through about 80 cases a week at Walter Reed alone, not counting the appeals. On top of that, JAG officers, the military attorneys assigned to represent the soldiers, are overloaded and soldiers don’t often feel the attorneys are on their side, Soto said.
"They are getting to the point where they just want to get out," Soto said of the soldiers who have become leery and weary of the evaluation process and frequently end up taking whatever disability pay they can.
The law firms — which include, LeBoeuf, Lamb, Greene & MacRae, King & Spaulding and Foley & Lardner — will not only provide assistance to soldiers from the start of the process, but will assure the best interest of the soldier is well in hand, he said. Some soldiers have already expressed newfound confidence since the announcement.

Recent official reports, DAV investigations and personal accounts all suggest that the system appears to be unfairly stacked against individual soldiers, particularly in the Army. Defense Department officials say they are working hard to rectify the problem. But the stack against the soldier seems evident. According to the current evaluation process, even if a service member has more than one potential disability, the military assigns a rating from 0 to 100% to just one injury that renders the soldier unfit for duty. Anything below 30% affords the soon-to-be veteran a one-time severance check based on his or her rank and years of service and nothing else. Anything above 30% provides the soldier and his or her family with lifetime care, plus a pension based on the member's active duty pay. In April, the congressionally-mandated Veterans Disability Benefits Commission provided Congress with preliminary findings from its investigation into whether the military has been lowballing disability ratings, a charge denied by the Pentagon. Its analysis is based on thousands of disability records since the War on Terror began. It found that 81% of all disabilities between 2000 and 2006 were rated 0 to 20% by the military. Out of 50,676 Army soldiers deemed unfit for duty, 27% received 0 percent ratings. In 59% of those cases, according to the commission's early findings, the VA has given a 30 to 100% disability rating to the same soldier who earned a zero to 30% rating from the military. [Source: Fox News Kelley Beaucar Vlahos article 12 Jun 07 ++]


PARKINSON’S DISEASE: Northwestern University researchers have discovered a drug that slows and may even halt the progression of Parkinson’s disease. The drug rejuvenates aging dopamine cells, whose death in the brain causes the symptoms of this devastating and widespread disease. D. James Surmeier, the Nathan Smith Davis Professor and chair of physiology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, and his team of researchers have found that isradipine, a drug widely used for hypertension and stroke, restores stressed-out dopamine neurons to their vigorous younger selves. The study is described in a feature article in the international journal Nature, which will be published on-line 10 JUN. Dopamine is a critical chemical messenger in the brain that affects a person’s ability to direct his movements. In Parkinson’s disease, the neurons that release dopamine die, causing movement to become more and more difficult. Ultimately, a person loses the ability to walk, talk or pick up a glass of water.

The illness is the second most common neurodegenenerative disease in the country, affecting about 1 million people. The incidence of Parkinson’s disease increases with age, soaring after age 60. Isradipine may also significantly benefit people who already have Parkinson’s disease. In animal models of the disease, Surmeier’s team found the drug protected dopamine neurons from toxins that would normally kill them by restoring the neurons to a younger state in which they are less vulnerable. The principal therapy for Parkinson’s disease patients currently is L-DOPA, which is converted in the brain to dopamine. Although L-DOPA relieves many symptoms of the disease in its early stages, the drug becomes less effective over time. As the disease progresses, higher doses of L-DOPA are required to help patients, leading to unwanted side-effects that include involuntary movements. The hope is that by slowing the death of dopamine neurons, isradipine could significantly extend the time in which L-DOPA works effectively. The work by Surmeier’s group is particularly exciting because nothing is known to prevent or slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease. The next step will be launching a clinical study. For additional info refer to http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/ ... 060707.php. [Source: Northwestern University Press Release 10 Jun 07 ++]


VA BONUSES UPDATE 03: The VA acknowledged problems on 12 JUN in its award of $3.8 million in bonuses to senior officials who put health care at risk and said it would consider changes to avoid conflicts of interest and improve oversight. Testifying before a House panel, Veterans Affairs Deputy Secretary Gordon Mansfield insisted the hefty awards were appropriate and necessary to retain hardworking VA employees. But he agreed the process might lack objectivity because members who sit on VA performance review boards -- charged with recommending bonuses for top employees -- all come from within the agency and typically get bonuses themselves. Mansfield said VA Secretary Jim Nicholson would consider adding agency outsiders to the VA's review boards. In its last known report on the issue, the Government Accountability Office in 1980 urged departments to include outsiders to add credibility to bonus awards.

Mansfield spoke as a few members of a veterans advocacy group, Grassroots America, silently held up signs in the hearing room that read, ''My 80% disabled son backlogged 1 1/2 years,'' and ''$$ for vets not execs.'' The hearing before a House Veterans Affairs subcommittee comes after The Associated Press reported last month that 21 of 32 officials who were VA performance review board members received more than half a million dollars in payments themselves. Among them: nearly a dozen senior officials who received bonuses ranging up to $33,000. Those officials, however, were involved in crafting a budget that came up $1.3 billion short by repeatedly failing to anticipate needs of growing numbers of veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. Also rewarded was the deputy undersecretary for benefits, who manages a system with severe backlogs of veterans waiting for disability benefits. The current wait for veterans averages 177 days, nearly two months longer than the VA's strategic goal of 125 days.

Earlier in the hearing, government investigators told House members the VA needed to do a better job in linking its bonuses to the department's overall success in treating veterans. The GAO said confusion still exists in the VA on the proper criteria, and executives based in Washington consistently outpaced their counterparts elsewhere in the size of payments -- $19,439 compared with $15,268 to officials outside Washington. In a report to the subcommittee, the Office of Personnel Management said its review of VA practices found inconsistency in the awarding of bonuses. OPM director Linda Springer.Mansfield expressed concern that the hardworking VA officials might leave for the more profitable private sector if they did not receive bonuses. That drew fire from lawmakers from both parties, who decried the payments as evidence of improper favoritism and said it would be illegal to award bonuses on anything other than performance. All bonus recommendations must be approved by Nicholson, who declined to testify before the subcommittee. Rep. Harry Mitchell [D-AZ] who chairs the House subcommittee on oversight said, “
'When the backlog of claims has been increasing for the past few years, one would not expect the senior-most officials to receive the maximum bonus. Indeed, it appears the bonuses in the central office were awarded primarily on the basis of seniority and proximity to the secretary.” Florida Rep. Ginny Brown-Waite, the panel's top Republican, said she wanted to make sure the bonuses were awarded based on VA officials' 'actual performance, and not just performance on paper. “The federal government should not be in the practice of awarding bonuses to people who permit failure on their watch. It should be limited only to the very best, particularly in time of war.” [Source: New York Times article 13 Jun 07 ++]


WISCONSIN VET TUITION AID: On 11 JUN the Associated Press (AP) reported that Wisconsin Lawmakers are moving to scale back a fast-growing tuition benefit program for Wisconsin veterans, eliminating the promise of free graduate school and a lifetime to use the aid. Their plan also would shortchange the landmark program by tens of millions of dollars, forcing universities and technical colleges to raise tuition or make cuts to other programs to accommodate the veterans who are enrolling in greater numbers than expected. AP points out that at hearings last week, lawmakers wrongly insisted they were not cutting the program and even blasted a Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs official for warning veterans groups about the looming cuts.

At present the Wisconsin G.I. Bill provides a waiver (“remission”) of tuition and fees for eligible veterans and their dependents for up to 8 full-time semesters or 128 credits at any University of Wisconsin System (UWS) or Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) institution. The Wisconsin G.I. Bill is a state program that is entirely separate from the federal VA's Montgomery G.I. Bill. For additional information, eligibility criteria, instructions on how to apply for the Wisconsin G.I. Bill, and statutory citations for the program, refer to http://dva.state.wi.us/benefits.asp. In accordance with 2005 Wisconsin Act 468, effective Summer Semester 2007 for WTCS and Fall Semester 2007 for UWS, the remission will increase to a full 100% for qualifying veterans. To qualify the veteran must have been a Wisconsin resident at the time of entry onto active duty. Character of service and active duty service requirements apply.
The benefit recipient must reside in Wisconsin. For veterans, there is no post-service time limitation (such as the federal Montgomery G.I. Bill 10-year delimiting date) on the use of the benefit. The veteran may attend full-time or part-time.

Additionally, a 100% remission is provided to the qualifying dependents of an eligible veteran.
Spouse; or Unremarried Surviving Spouse; or Child between the ages of 18 and 25, qualify if the veteran was a Wisconsin resident at the time of entry onto active duty provided the veteran:
- Is currently rated by the federal VA with a combined service-connected disability rating of 30% or greater (Effective Fall Semester 2005); or
- Died in the line of duty while on active, Reserve, or Guard duty (Effective Fall Semester 2005); or
- Died as the direct result of a service-connected disability, as determined by the federal VA (Effective July 1, 2006).

For qualifying spouses and unremarried surviving spouses, the benefit must be used within 10 years of the date of death or the initial disability rating of 30% or greater. The spouse or unremarried surviving spouse may attend full-time or part-time. For qualifying children, the benefit is available from ages 18 through 25. The child must attend full-time. For the Wisconsin G.I. Bill, the veteran must have been a Wisconsin resident at the time of entry onto active duty. Character of service and active duty service requirements apply and the benefit recipient must reside in Wisconsin. [Source: WI Dept of VA Website Jun 07 ++]


VA FRAUD: Continuing a long-standing campaign to identify and prosecute those who defraud veterans of their rightful benefits, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recently highlighted several successes by its Inspector General in investigating people who mishandle the finances of veterans and family members unable to manage their own affairs. Among recent cases successfully prosecuted as a result of investigations by VA’s Office of the Inspector General are:
- Los Angeles resident Anne Chavis pleaded guilty to perjury and forgery in embezzling $1 million from veterans who were too disabled to handle their own financial matters. She is awaiting sentencing.
- The daughter and son-in-law of an elderly Alaskan veteran with Alzheimer’s disease diverted about $500,000 from the veteran to make personal purchases while failing to pay the veteran’s bills. Phyllis Talas was sentenced to 60 months’ probation, and Frank Talas to six months’ incarceration and 36 months’ probation.
- A Washington state woman overseeing her niece’s VA benefits pleaded guilty to misappropriating funds and was sentenced to 36 months of probation. Christina May diverted to her personal use funds from VA’s Dependency and Indemnity Compensation awarded to her under-age niece.

Secretary of Veterans Affairs Jim Nicholson said, “VA is committed to protecting our veterans, especially our most vulnerable veterans. We will investigate and help bring charges against anyone suspected of defrauding veterans of the disability compensation or any other assistance they have earned. Fiduciary fraud is a heinous crime. We will bring the full force of law against offenders.” From JAN 2005 through 5 APR 07 the VA’s Office of Inspector General investigated 61 cases of alleged fiduciary fraud. Twenty-seven people were indicted on related charges, of whom 19 have been convicted so far. Resulting penalties have included $1.9 million in court-ordered restitution for veterans or their estates, 191 months’ imprisonment and 838 months of probation. To report suspected fraud involving veterans benefits, other crimes, fraud, waste or mismanagement in the VA, contact the Office of Inspector General Hotline at 1(800) 488-8244 or email at vaoig.hotline@forum.va.gov. [Source: VA News Release 12 Jun 07 ++]


ID CARD COPYING UPDATE 01: With identity theft on the rise, it is understandable to feel a little uncomfortable with ID card copying. According to Title 18 United States Code, section 701, photocopying or possession of a card is only illegal if used in an unauthorized manner. To use your Tricare benefits, you must have a valid uniformed services ID card and be registered in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS). Children under the age of 10 can usually use either their parent's or guardian's ID card but they must be registered in DEERS. At age 10, children should have their own ID card. Your Tricare provider's office is authorized to make a copy of your military or family member ID card or Tricare Prime enrollment card, be assured it is not against the rules. Tricare recommends that providers photocopy your enrollment card as well as the front and back of your military ID card. Although it is not required for treatment, your enrollment card contains important information about you that your provider needs for referral, authorization and claims filing purposes. [Source: Tricare Health Matters, Issue 3:2007)


VET SUICIDE: The risk of suicide among male U.S. veterans is double that of the general population, according to a study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. Dr. Mark S. Kaplan, professor of community health at Portland State University in Oregon is the lead author of the study. For 12 years, Kaplan and his team of researchers followed more than 104,000 veterans who had served in the armed forces at some time between 1917 and 1994 and compared them with more than 216,000 non-veterans. In all, between 1986 and 1997, 508 of them committed suicide -- 197 veterans and 311 non-veterans. After adjusting for a host of potentially compounding factors, including age, time of service and health status, the study showed that those who had been in the military were 2.13 times more likely to die of suicide over time. At biggest risk were veterans who were white, those who had gone to college and those with activity limitations, according to the study, which was funded by the National Institute of Mental Health.

Still, Kaplan would not say that the study proves that military service itself results in an increased risk of suicide. “I never feel comfortable claiming a causal relationship, he said. “Life is too complex.” No surprise was the finding that veterans were more likely to use guns to end their lives than were their non-veteran counterparts. One unanticipated finding was that being overweight appeared to confer protection from suicide by more than 50%, the study found. Kaplan cited a paucity of data on the subject, but said it might have to do with the fact that people who are underweight are more likely to smoke, and smokers are more likely to be depressed. Though the study did not include veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, “We can say quite confidently that, regardless of the era when they served, that veterans’ status alone seems to be a risk factor for suicide, he told CNN.

With the projected rise in functional impairments and psychiatric morbidity among veterans of the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq, clinical and community interventions directed towards patients in both VA and non-VA health care facilities are needed,” the authors concluded. Kaplan said officials in the Veterans Administration were surprised by the findings, but welcomed them, “because it does point to a problem that they need to be addressing.” The VA has recently begun expanding its mental health screening facilities, but that may not solve the problem, said Kaplan, because three-fourths of veterans do not receive their care from VA hospitals. “Our concern is that that only touches a fraction of all veterans; that most of the veterans are not being perhaps properly screened outside the VA facilities.” About 1.3% percent of deaths in the country are estimated to be suicides, Kaplan said. But the true rate may be off by 25%, given that suicide has long been shrouded in stigma. “Health care facilities don’t like to talk about suicide,” he said. “It’s often viewed as a failure of the system. ... Many physicians feel, if you even mention suicide, that might prompt the behavior.” [Source: CNN.com article 11 Jun 07 ++]


VA SUICIDE CALL CENTER: The recently announced Veterans Affairs Suicide Mental Health Crisis Hotline call center at the Canandaigua VA Medical Center will be the first of its kind in the United States. Suicidal veterans will have access to highly trained professionals able to refer them to a range of programs and facilities not available to civilians, Stephenson said. That may include specialized behavioral health units, partial hospitalization centers and post-traumatic stress disorder specialists all across the country. Krista Stephenson, assistant to hospital director Craig Howard said operational details are scant at the moment, but Stephenson said that the 24-hour-a-day, seven-day-a-week hotline will work much like the National Suicide/Crises Prevention Hotlines 1-800-SUICIDE/1-800-273-TALK, but with a focus on veterans. Nor could Stephenson comment on how the program originated or why it’s being located in Canandaigua. The hospital is currently recruiting nurses and behavioral health professionals to fill the approximately 23 full time positions. The call center is on track to open in September. or October Medical professionals interested in working at the center should call human resources at (585) 939-7766.

In the interim the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced plans to hire suicide prevention counselors at each of its 153 medical centers. The new suicide prevention counselors will join the 9,000 mental health professionals already employed by VA. The Department spends nearly $3 billion a year for mental health services. About 1 million VA patients have a mental health diagnosis. Mental health services are provided at each of VA's 153 medical centers and more than 700 community-based outpatient clinics. Last month, VA Secretary Nicholson announced an initiative to hire 100 new employees to provide readjustment counseling at each of the Department's 207 community-based Vets Centers. At present 30,000 Americans die by suicide and 50,000 Americans attempt suicide each year. [Source: Finger Lake Times article 11 Jun 07 ++]


AFRC SHADES OF GREEN UPDATE 04: Shades of Green, the Armed Forces Recreation Center Resort on Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, recently announced the commencement of its Salute to Veterans Program. This program expands current eligibility to allow any honorably discharged veteran the opportunity to stay at Shades of Green Resort during the months of September 2007 and January 2008. Under the guidelines of the special program, you do NOT need to be a military retiree but you will need a valid DD214 indicating Honorable Discharge. Shades of Green, Surrounded by one of the best golf courses in Florida, completed a full renovation and expansion in 2005. For more information about the resort refer to the Shades of Green website at http://www.shadesofgreen.org/ or call (407) 827- 8387. [Source: NAUS Update 8 Jun 07 ++]


NDAA 2008 UPDATE 04: With the full House of Representatives passing its version of the of the FY2008 Defense Authorization Bill on 17 MAY (H.R.1585) and the Senate Armed Services Committee having approved its draft (S.1547) the last week in May, the next step on the road to enactment of this important legislation is consideration by the full Senate. The Senate Armed Services Committee approved draft followed its counterpart in the House by rejecting the Bush administration’s call to raise Tricare fees and deductibles for a second year. They also rejected raising Tricare retail drug co-payments. Senators want to delay action on any such changes for at least another year. Lawmakers and their staffs want to study the final report of the Task Force on the Future of Military Healthcare, which is due in DEC 07. Some other details from the Senate committee bill are:
- Accumulated leave: The Senate committee voted to allow any servicemember to carry up to 90 days of unused leave into the fiscal year. The current ceiling is 60 days for members not in a war zone. Senators said that is too limiting given the pace of operations today.
- Chapter 61 retirees: The Senate committee bill would take a more dramatic step than the House to expand eligibility for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC) to Chapter 61 retirees’ members forced by service-connected disabilities to leave service short of 20 years. The Senate language would allow any Chapter 61 retiree with combat-related disabilities to receive both disability compensation and CRSC. Their CRSC payment would be the equivalent of retired pay based on years served. The House voted to expand CRSC eligibility only to Chapter 61 retirees who served at least 15 years and have combat-related disabilities rated 60 percent or higher.
- Reserve retirement: One item that will spark negotiation is the Senate committee’s language to lower the start of Reserve retirement below age 60 by three months for every 90 days a reservist or National Guard members is recalled to active duty. This change at first glance looks like a boon to career reservists mobilized for Iraq and Afghanistan. But the committee could find no money to apply this change retroactively to deployments since the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. This change, therefore, would only lower retirement age for Reserve and National Guard personnel mobilized after the date the bill is signed.
- SBP-DIC offset: The Senate bill is silent on ending or phasing out of the so-called SBP-DIC offset that impacts 61,000 surviving spouses. Current law requires that payments under the military’s Survivor Benefit Plan be reduced by amounts surviving spouses receive in Disability and Indemnity Compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs. The House bill would take a first step toward elimination the offset by paying up to a $40 a month survivor indemnity allowance starting in OCT 08. Though the Senate committee ignored the SBP-DIC offset issue, an initiative still might be added when amendments voted on during floor debate on the authorization bill later in June.
- Survivor benefits: The committee did adopt two smaller changes to survivor benefits. One provision would allow guardians and caretakers of dependent children to receive SBP benefits, closing a coverage gap brought to light with U.S. deaths in Iraq and Afghanistan. Grandparents or other guardians have been left to care for surviving children, but they are ineligible for SBP to help raise them.The Senate bill also would allow servicemembers to designate in writing anyone as beneficiary of their death gratuity. This change would treat the death payments more like an insurance policy.
- Drug discounts: Both the House bill and Senate-committee bill would squeeze pharmaceutical manufacturers to provide federal pricing discounts to medicines dispensed through Tricare retail pharmacy network. Such discounts already are given on medicines dispensed on base, through the military’s mail order program and through VA clinics and hospitals. The Senate language orders the discounts for Tricare retail outlets. The House language is not as rigid. It would allow the department to exclude drugs from the Tricare retail formulary if drug makers do not provide the discounts. The Senate committee decided the House approach could hurt patients.

All indications are that the Senate will take up the bill during the last week in June -- the week before the Senate is scheduled to break for the traditional 4th of July recess. Because the Senate bill traditionally draws hundreds of time-consuming amendments, Senate leadership usually schedules it for action just before a recess. That gives senators an incentive to compromise and finish action on the amendment list in a timely fashion or risk having to stay in session and eat into their scheduled home time. Sen. Bill Nelson (D-FL) already has indicated his intention to offer an amendment to repeal the SBP/DIC offset and implement 30-year, paid-up SBP this year. In addition, veteran organizations are working with other potential sponsors on a short list of key amendments we including provisions to increase Tricare fee protections, make further progress on concurrent receipt, help restore military pay comparability, and fix GI Bill inequities. [Source: Stars & Stripes Tom Philpott article 2 Jun & MOAA Leg Up 8 Jun 07 ++]


WRAMC UPDATE 10: On 5 JUN at the Army's Military and Veteran Service Organization Leadership Conference, top Army leaders acknowledged the Army health care system had broken down and the gaps in care identified by the Washington Post at Walter Reed were a wake up call. The new leadership is focused on ensuring that problems get fixed in a way that puts soldiers and families first. Speakers included MG Gale Pollock, acting Army Surgeon General; MG Eric Schoomaker, commander of Walter Reed; LTG James Campbell, Director of the Army Staff; Gen George Casey, Chief of Staff of the Army; and Pete Geren, acting Secretary of the Army. Each speaker expressed a clear message of positive, immediate change. They highlighted the new Army Medical Action plan (AMED) that will be fully implemented by 1 JUN 08. AMED is the Army's initiative to develop a sustainable system where disabled and ill soldiers are medically treated and vocationally rehabilitated to prepare them for a successful return to duty or transition to citizenship.

One change also being considered is a complete revision of the disability evaluation process. According to BG Reuben Jones, the Army's Adjutant General, a possible option is to have the services determine "fitness for duty" but pass the responsibility for assigning a disability rating to determine retirement eligibility to the VA. This proposal has received endorsements from other commissions and task forces on the severely wounded. Other recommendations from the leadership include:
- Reducing the 8-year rule affecting separation for pre-existing conditions.
- Raising the cap for severance pay from 12 years of basic pay to 15 years.
- Offer early retirement to all members found unfit for duty with 15+ years of service.
- Eliminating the deduction of VA pay from disability severance payments.
- Retaining injured, recalled retirees on active duty for medical care (vs. current process of immediate return to retirement).
- Expanding eligibility for retroactive traumatic injury protection under SGLI.
[Source: MOAA Leg Up 8 Jun 07 ++]


MILITARY FUNERAL DISORDERLY CONDUCT UPDATE 08: The New Hampshire House on 7 JUN approved creating a new medal to honor the state’s war dead, and to shield their funerals from protests. The state’s Medal of Honor would go the families of New Hampshire military members killed in the line of duty. The same bill also would ban protests at funerals. The ban was prompted by a protest at a New Hampshire military funeral in April by a Kansas-based group. The bill would ban protests within 150 feet of the road entrance and 300 feet from a cemetery, from an hour before to an hour after a funeral. “This bill protects the sanctuary of a military member’s final resting place. When someone loses somebody, it can’t be about politics,” said Rep. Kris Roberts, a Keene Democrat and Marine Corps veteran who added the protest ban to the bill. “People need the time to say their last goodbye,” he said. [Source: NavyTimes Daily News roundup 8 Jun 07 ++]


CRIME VICTIM RESOURCE OVERSEAS: The Bureau of Consular Affairs, Overseas Citizens Services is committed to assisting American citizens who become victims of crime while traveling, working, or residing abroad. Government officials, known as consuls or consular officers, at embassies and consulates in nearly 250 cities throughout the world are responsible for assisting U.S. citizens who may be traveling, working, or residing abroad. In addition, in approximately 50 cities where a significant number of Americans reside or visit and there is no U.S. embassy or consulate, consular agents provide emergency assistance to U.S. citizens. Consuls, consular agents, and local employees work with their counterparts in the Bureau of Consular Affairs Overseas Citizens Services Office in Washington, D.C. to provide emergency and non-emergency services to Americans abroad. Consular duty personnel are available for emergency assistance 7/24 at embassies, consulates, and consular agencies overseas and in Washington, D.C. To contact the Office of Overseas Citizens Services in the U.S. call 1(888) 407-4747 (during business hours) or (202) 647-5225 (after hours). To contact the U.S. Embassy in Manila call 63-2-528-6300 ext 2246, if after work hours ask for the Duty Officer.

If you are the victim of a crime overseas contact the nearest U.S. embassy, consulate, or consular agency for assistance. Also, contact local police to report the incident and obtain immediate help with safety concerns. Request a copy of the police report. Consular personnel can provide assistance to crime victims. When a U.S. citizen becomes the victim of a crime overseas, he or she may suffer physical, emotional, or financial injuries. Additionally, the emotional impact of the crime may be intensified because the victim is in unfamiliar surroundings. The victim may not be near sources of comfort and support, fluent in the local language, or knowledgeable about local laws and customs. Consuls, consular agents, and local employees at overseas posts are familiar with local government agencies and resources in the country where they work. They can help American crime victims with issues such as:
- Replacing a stolen passport;
- Contacting family, friends, or employers;
- Obtaining appropriate medical care;
- Addressing emergency needs that arise as a result of the crime;
- Obtaining general info about the local criminal justice process and information about your case;
- Obtaining information about local resources to assist victims, including foreign crime victim compensation programs;
- Obtaining information about crime victim assistance and compensation programs in the U.S.; and
- Obtaining a list of local attorneys who speak English.

Consular officials cannot investigate crimes, provide legal advice or represent you in court, serve as official interpreters or translators, or pay legal, medical, or other fees for you. [Source: Manila Embassy Newsletter Jun 07 ++]


CRIME VICTIM RESOURCES U.S: If you are the victim of a crime while overseas or in the states you may benefit from specialized resources for crime victims available in the U.S. Throughout the country thousands of local crime victim assistance programs offer help to victims of violent crime and most will help residents of their community who have been the victim of a crime in another country. These include rape crisis counseling programs, shelter and counseling programs for battered women, support groups and bereavement counseling for family members of homicide victims, diagnostic and treatment programs for child abuse victims, assistance for victims of drunk driving crashes, and others. To locate crime victim assistance programs refer to the following:

- Victim Compensation - All states operate crime victim compensation programs and nearly half of them offer benefits to their residents who are victims of violent crime overseas. These state compensation programs provide financial assistance to eligible victims for reimbursement of expenses such as medical treatment, counseling, funeral costs, lost income or loss of support, and others. Generally victim compensation programs require the victim to report the crime to law enforcement and they usually request a copy of the police report. Info about each state’s crime victim compensation program and how to apply for compensation is available on the Internet at the web site of the National Association of Crime Victim Compensation Boards, http://www.nacvcb.org.
- Sexual Assault - The 7/24 hotline for sexual assault crisis counseling and referrals in the U.S is 1(800) 656-HOPE. It is operated by a non-profit organization, RAINN (Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network), which also has info at http://www.rainn.org. Info about local sexual assault victim assistance programs in the U.S. is also available from each state’s sexual assault coalition. Contact information for these state coalitions are listed on the website of the U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women http://www.usdoj.gov/ovw/ .
- Domestic Violence - The 7/24 National Domestic Violence Hotline, which provides crisis counseling and referrals in the U.S., is 1(800) 799-SAFE. Info about local domestic violence victim assistance programs in the U.S. is also available from each state’s domestic violence coalition. Contact information for these state coalitions is listed on the the U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women website http://www.usdoj.gov/ovw/statedomestic.htm.
- Violant Death - The 7/24 crisis counseling and referral line for families and friends of those who have died by violence is 1(888) 818-POMC. It is operated by a non-profit organization, POMC, Inc., (The National Organization of Parents of Murdered Children) which also has info at http://www.pomc.org.
- Drunk Driving - Info about national and local resources for victims and family members of victims of drunk driving crashes is available on the web site of Mothers Against Drunk Driving, http://www.madd.org.
- Contact info for non-emergency victim assistance services in communities throughout the U.S. is available on the U.S. Department of Justice Office for Victims of Crime web site, http://ovc.ncjrs.org/findvictimservices/.
- Info for crime victims on the impact of crime, safety planning, legal rights and civil legal remedies, and options for assistance and referrals to local programs is also available from the National Crime Victim Center. Call 0830 to 2030 EST 1(800) FYI-CALL or call TTY for hearing impaired 1(800) 211-7996. Info is also available at http://www.ncvc.org .
- Info and referral to victim assistance programs is available from the National Organization for Victim Assistance (NOVA). Call 7/24 1(800) TRY-NOVA. Information is also available at http://www.trynova.org/
- Info about victim assistance programs in approximately 20 countries is available at Victim Assistance On-line, http://www.vaonline.org.
[Source: Manila Embassy Newsletter Jun 07 ++]


VA NURSING ACADEMY: To address a shortage of nurses across the nation and ensure that veterans continue to receive personalized, world-class care in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities, VA has announced their creation of a new multi-campus Nursing Academy. It will expand the teaching faculty, improve recruitment and retention, and create new educational and research opportunities for VA nurses. VA has one of the largest nursing staffs of any health care system in the world, with about 61,000 registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, vocational nurses and nursing assistants at the Department's 153 medical centers and nearly 900 clinics. A five-year, $40 million pilot program will establish partnerships with 12 nursing schools across the country during the next three years, beginning with four for the 2007-2008 academic year. The VA nursing academy is a virtual organization with central administration in Washington and teaching at competitively selected nursing schools across the country who partner with VA. VA currently provides clinical education to nearly 100,000 health professional trainees annually, including students from more than 600 schools of nursing. Despite a nationwide shortage of nurses, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing has reported that more than 42,000 qualified applicants were turned away from nursing schools in 2006 because of insufficient numbers of faculty, clinical sites, classroom space and clinical mentors. “The new partnerships will reinvigorate VA’s nursing academic affiliations and ensure continued quality in clinical education,” said Dr. Michael J. Kussman, VA’s Acting Under Secretary for Health. Further information about the pilot program can be obtained from VA’s Office of Academic Affiliations Web site at www.va.gov/oaa. [Source:


VA CLAIM FIXERS: The US Department of Veterans Affairs (USDVA) in Manila is receiving an increasingly number of claims for VA benefits from veterans or survivors who avail of the services of a “CLAIMS FIXER”. VA often find these claims contain fraudulent evidence submitted by the fixers. In the Philippines when VA discovers that a claim involves a claim fixer it is fully investigated which delays processing of the claim. If it is determined that fraud was committed, the veteran or his survivor’s right to VA benefits are forfeited. This is a lifetime forfeiture meaning the veteran and /or their dependents lose all rights to ever be considered for VA benefits for the rest of their lives. Claims Fixers have no connection within the VA. If approached by someone claiming to have an “IN” with the VA, notify the nearest VA office immediately. Claim fixers cannot affect the outcome of your claim. They can only jeopardize your entitlement to VA benefits. To protect yourself:
- Avoid claim fixers. Anyone charging a fee to assist you is a claims fixer.
- Do not sign any form unless it is completely filled out and all the information contained on the form is accurate. If possible, you should fill out the forms yourself.
- Do not sign any affidavit or statement unless they are accurate.
- Do not sign any statement in support of another person’s claim unless the information is accurate.
- Do not submit any medical evidence or doctor’s statements unless the information is factual.
- Do not allow any affidavits or statements to be submitted in support of your claim unless the information in the document is accurate.
- Do not pay someone the benefits you have earned in defense of your country. They have no right to those benefits.

The provisions for forfeiture only apply in the Philippines, not stateside or anywhere else. In the states the DVA can get the state attorney general or District Attorney to bring charges and subsequently a prosecution. In lieu of that option in the Philippines, the forfeiture provision applies. If you have questions about VA benefits or services, contact the USDVA. The USDVA has representatives available to assist you with your claim. In the Philippines you may visit them at the US Embassy in Manila or call them, toll free (PLDT) 1-800-1888-5252. If you live in Metro Manila, you can dial 528-2500. You may also visit the website: https://iris.va.gov for more information. VA does not charge for services they provide for claim assistance. [Source: Jon Skelly Director VARO Manila May 07 ++]

[boardman]

MEDICARE FRAUD: Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales and Secretary Michael Leavitt of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced 9 MAY tht 38 people have been arrested in the first phase of a targeted criminal, civil and administrative effort against individuals and health care companies that fraudulently bill the Medicare program. The arrests in the Southern District of Florida are the result of the establishment of a multi-agency team of federal, state and local investigators designed specifically to combat Medicare fraud through the use of real-time analysis of Medicare billing data. Since the first phase of strike force operations began on 1 MAR 07 in southern Florida, the strike force has obtained indictments of individuals and organizations that have collectively billed the Medicare program for $142,061,059. Charges brought against the defendants in these indictments include conspiracy to defraud the Medicare program, criminal false claims, and violations of the anti-kickback statutes. If convicted, many of the defendants face up to 20 years in prison on these charges.

The strike force is able to identify potential fraud cases for investigation and prosecution quickly through real-time analysis of billing data from Medicare Program Safeguard Contractors (PSCs) and claims data extracted from the Health Care Information System. In phase one operations in Miami, teams have identified two primary schemes that defrauded the Medicare program – infusion therapy and durable medical equipment (DME) suppliers. All of the strike force cases to date target these two areas. The work of the strike force is just one step in a multi-phase enforcement and regulatory project designed to improve the quality of the industry and reduce the potential for fraud in the durable medical equipment and infusion areas. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers. The end result will be better service to beneficiaries and savings of billions of dollars that might otherwise go to fraudulent businesses. On the morning of 8 MAY 07 federal agents arrested an additional 24 people to conclude a sweep in southern Florida of DME supply company owners who were engaged in various schemes to defraud Medicare based on fraudulent prescriptions bringing the total number of arrests to date to 38. The indictments outline various types of fraudulent schemes. Those schemes included:

- Compounded aerosol medications -- a process where a pharmacist makes medicine to meet a special medical need for a patient, rather than dispensing less expensive commercial pharmaceuticals. The indictments allege that the homemade medications were not necessary and that they were only prescribed to defraud Medicare. In one example, Eduardo Moreno, the owner of multiple DME companies, was arrested on 7 APR after being named in a six-count indictment on fraud charges. Two of Moreno’s companies – Brenda Medical Supply Inc., and Faster Medical Equipment Inc. – allegedly billed Medicare for more than $1.9 million for services that were not medically necessary. The FBI has seized of some of Moreno’s assets, including a new Rolls Royce Phantom worth approximately $200,000.
- In a five-count indictment out of the Southern District of Florida, Barbara Diaz and Jose Prieto were charged with conspiring to defraud Medicare, submitting false claims to Medicare and money laundering. The indictment alleges that Diaz and Prieto engaged in an “infusion therapy scheme” where patients did not need the drugs that were purportedly used. From 9 MAR through 31 DEC 06, the defendants billed Medicare more than $900,000 for infusion.
- Seizure warrants have been used to take money back from bank accounts associated with the activity alleged in the indictment. In one case, HHS-Inspector General agents recovered more than $1.2 million from a corporate bank account after arresting Leider Alexis Munoz, the president and chief executive officer of RTC of Miami, Inc., an infusion clinic located in Hialeah, Fla.

The strike force teams are led by a federal prosecutor supervised by both the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section in Washington and the office of U.S. Attorney R. Alexander Acosta of the Southern District of Florida. Each team has four to six agents, at least one agent from the FBI and HHS Office of Inspector General, as well as representatives of local law enforcement. The teams operate out of the federal Health Care Fraud Facility in Miramar, Fla. The operation is being prosecuted by attorneys from the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the Major Crimes Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, and supervised by Fraud Section Deputy and Chief of the Criminal Division in Miami. In addition to federal agents, the teams have officers and detectives from the Florida Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and Hialeah Police Department. An indictment is merely an allegation and defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. [Source: DOJ Press Release 9 May 07 ++]


VDBC UPDATE 17: The Institute of Medicine (IOM) on 7 JUN recommended that the Department of Veterans Affairs should overhaul its outdated system of compensating former military personnel for disabling injuries they suffered during their service. The institute said in a report requested by the federal Veterans' Disability Benefits Commission that the current system dates, in part, to the World War II era and is out of step with modern medical advances in diagnosing, understanding and treating conditions such as traumatic brain injury. The institute is a branch of the National Academies, an organization chartered by Congress to advise the government on scientific and technical issues. The disability benefits commission, created by Congress in 2003 to study the VA compensation system, is expected to issue a report this year. For years, the VA rating system has been criticized for bureaucratic delays and disability ratings that many veterans say are lower than they should be, which means they get less compensation. The subject is getting renewed attention as veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan return home with post-traumatic stress disorder, brain damage, amputations and other serious injuries and conditions. The IOM panel also recommended that:
- The VA and DoD consider comprehensive medical and vocational evaluations of newly separated members.
- VA rating boards have access to medical experts who can help interpret new medical evidence.
- The VA take into account the effect an injury has on the quality of life and ability to engage in usual life activities, not just earning capacity
- The VA establish a regular process for updating the rating schedule.
- Better vocational determinations be used for the award of individual unemployability (IU).
- Eligibility for IU be based on an individual's disabilities along with education, employment history, and the effects of age on potential employability.
- The VA implement a gradual reduction in IU compensation for those able to return to gainful employment, rather than abruptly terminating disability payments at an arbitrary level of earnings

VA officials said in a statement that they are reviewing the study, and that they are considering creating a joint process for disability determinations with the Defense Department. Veterans are eligible for monthly payments of $115 to $2,471 depending on the severity of the disability. Last year, about 2.7 million veterans received $26.5 billion in compensation, an average of more than $9,800 per veteran.
Joe Violante, national legislative director for the nonprofit advocacy group Disabled American Veterans (DAV), said the report overreached. "A total revamp of the system is uncalled for because VA has continually looked at that rating schedule and made revisions over the years," he said. "It's not like this rating schedule was done in a vacuum in 1945 and has never been touched." [Source: Washington Post Christopher Lee article 8 Jun 07 ++]


MEDICARE REIMBURSEMENT RATES 2008: The American Medical Association (AMA) launched a $2 million lobbying campaign 4 JUN against a scheduled 10% cut in Medicare reimbursements to physicians. The cut is scheduled to take effect on 1 JAN 08 in accordance with the Medicare physician payment formula known as the sustainable growth rate (SGR.) Congress has blocked scheduled SGR cuts each year since 2002. These Medicare cuts impact military retirees in two ways:
- Tricare reimbursements are indexed as a percentage (max =100%) of Medicare Allowable Amount. Thus, even though you might not be Medicare eligible, your out of pocket medical expenses will increase.
- Regardless of whether you have Basic Tricare or Tricare for Life, you might have difficulties finding a health care provider.

As part of AMA’s campaign, the group released a survey of nearly 9,000 doctors showing that if the payment cut went into effect:
- 60% of doctors would limit the number of new Medicare patients they accept;
- More than two-thirds would defer the purchase of needed information technology in 2008;
- 50% would reduce their staff; and
- 14% would stop treating patients entirely.

Cecil Wilson, chair of AMA’s board, said the association is deeply concerned by the alarming news of the doctors’ responses to the survey. According to AMA, scheduled SGR adjustments over the next nine years would amount to a 40% reduction in payments, while doctors’ costs are expected to increase 20% during the same period. In addition to asking for a reversal of the scheduled 10% cut, AMA is lobbying Congress to eliminate the SGR formula. The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission in March issued a report recommending that Congress cancel the scheduled cut for 2008 and instead increase payments by 1.7%

The cost of reversing future physician reimbursement cuts could be offset by making payments to private Medicare Advantage plans equal to reimbursements for traditional Medicare. These plans are currently are 12% higher on average than traditional Medicare payments. In their survey, fewer than one in five doctors said that the additional payments to Medicare Advantage plans should continue. Discussing AMA’s position on Medicare Advantage funding, Wilson said, “It doesn’t make sense to cut in traditional Medicare in order to fund Medicare Advantage plans. Better to share that money equally. Reducing Medicare Advantage payments by 12% would raise about $65 billion over five years which would be roughly the same amount needed to keep Medicare physician reimbursements at current levels, with inflation adjustments, for five years. Every year for the last five years we’ve come to the night before the end of the year and Congress has stepped in and done something. We’re suggesting that doing this year after year is an exercise in futility and certainly is frustrating everyone, and we’re asking Congress to do something more long term this year.”

A permanent reform of the SGR formula is not likely this year unless lawmakers have a significant change of heart. Senate Finance Committee Chair Max Baucus (D-MT) in February said, “I think we’re still at the point where we have to deal with this on a yearly basis. I think we’re going to get there, but I don’t think this year”. House Ways and Means Health Subcommittee Chair Pete Stark (D-CA also has indicated that he does not expect a permanent SGR reform to be implemented this year. Members of the military community can contact their elected representatives at http://capwiz.com/usdr/issues/alert/?al ... 1&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id to forward them a prepared email message or modified message as desired to express their concern over this issue. [Source: CA Healthline Daily Digest 5 Jun 07 ++]


TRICARE TRIWEST RC RESOURCE CENTER: Due to their often-times distant proximity to military bases, many National Guard and Reserve members and their families are not able to access the resources and support networks built into an active duty military community. For that reason, TriWest’s Guard and Reserve Resource Center (found on triwest.com) was developed with a virtual library of information for West Region Tricare beneficiaries serving in the National Guard and Reserve, their families and leadership. The resource center offers the following resources for members of the Guard and Reserve and their families:
- Streaming video outlining Tricare benefits for Guard and Reserve members.
- Guard and Reserve-specific news and updates, including TRICARE On Point, a quarterly e-newsletter.
- Post-deployment support and behavioral health resources for the entire family.
- Links to more than 80 support agencies and programs.
- Resources for military leadership.

Tricare is the health care program for the military, administered by TriWest Healthcare Alliance throughout its 21-state West Region. For more information about the Guard and Reserve Resource Center or Tricare benefits, refer to www.triwest.com. TriWest Healthcare Alliance partners with the Department of Defense to support the health care needs of 2.9 million members of America's military family. A Phoenix-based corporation, TriWest provides access to cost-effective, high-quality health care in the 21-state Tricare West Region. [Source: DoD MHS News Release 8 Jun 07 ++]


CALIFORNIA VETERAN’ HOME UPDATE 01: Legislation providing an additional $30 million in bonds to ensure the construction of state-owned veterans homes in Redding and Fresno has cleared the California state Senate and now goes to the Assembly. The bill, which was authored by state Sen. Sam Aanestad, R-Grass Valley, was introduced earlier this year after bids for a proposed 396-bed veterans home in West Los Angeles came in about $35 million over construction estimates. The 150-bed Redding home as well as one planned for Fresno were supposed to be covered under $193 million previously approved by the Legislature for five veterans homes. But the cost overrun for the estimated $183.6 million West Los Angeles facility threatened to derail the Redding and Fresno projects. The California Department of Veterans Affairs (CDVA) hopes to break ground on the Redding home late next year with the veterans’ home possibly opened by 2010. CDVA is also acquiring land, planning, and designing two other veterans’ homes in Lancaster (Los Angeles County) and Saticoy (Ventura County). Vets desiring to be considered for membership in the state’s veterans’ homes must be residents of California, age 62 or older (or younger if disabled), and have served honorably. Veterans seeking admission should refer to http://www.cdva.ca.gov/homes and/or contact their home of choice at:
1. Veterans Home of California, Attn: Admissions, 180 California Drive, P.O. Box 1200, Yountville, CA 94599 Tel: 1(800) 404-8387
2. Veterans Home of California, Barstow, Attn: Admissions, 100 E. Veterans Parkway, Barstow, CA 92311 Tel: 1(800) 746-0606
3. Veterans Home of California, Chula Vista, Attn: Admissions, 700 East Naples Court, Chula Vista, CA 91911
[Source: Redding.com article 6 Jun 07 ++]


PROSTRATE PROBLEMS UPDATE 02: According to a study led by Duke University Medical Center researchers, Flaxseed, an edible seed that is rich in omega 3-fatty acids and fiber-related compounds known as lignans, is effective in halting prostate tumor growth. The seed, which is similar to a sesame seed, may be able to interrupt the chain of events that leads cells to divide irregularly and become cancerous. Wendy Demark-Wahnefried, Ph.D., a researcher in Duke's School of Nursing and lead investigator on the study said, “Our previous studies in animals and in humans had shown a correlation between flaxseed supplementation and slowed tumor growth, but the participants in those studies had taken flaxseed in conjunction with a low-fat diet. For this study, we demonstrated that it is flaxseed that primarily offers the protective benefit.” The multisite study, which was funded by the National Institutes of Health, also involved researchers at the University of Michigan and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

In the study, the researchers examined the effects of flaxseed supplementation on men who were scheduled to undergo prostatectomy (i.e. surgery for the treatment of prostate cancer). The men took 30 grams of flaxseed daily for an average of 30 days prior to surgery. Once the men's tumors were removed, the researchers looked at tumor cells under a microscope, and were able to determine how quickly the cancer cells had multiplied. Men taking flaxseed, either alone or in conjunction with a low-fat diet, were compared to men assigned to just a low-fat diet, as well as to men in a control group, who did not alter or supplement their daily diet. Men in both of the flaxseed groups had the slowest rate of tumor growth, Demark-Wahnefried said. Each group was made up of about 40 participants. Study participants took the flaxseed in a ground form because flaxseed in its whole form has an indigestible seed coat. Participants elected to mix it in drinks or sprinkle it on food, such as yogurt.

The results showed that the men who took just flaxseed as well as those who took flaxseed combined with a low-fat diet did the best, indicating that it is the flaxseed which is making the difference. Flaxseed is thought to play a part in halting the cellular activity that leads to cancer growth and spread. One reason could be that as a source of omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseed can alter how cancer cells lump together or cling to other body cells, both factors in how fast cancer cells proliferate, Demark-Wahnefried said. The researchers also suspect that lignans may have antiangiogenic properties, meaning they are able to choke off a tumor's blood supply, stunting its growth. The researchers hope to next test the effectiveness of flaxseed supplementation in patients with recurrent prostate cancer, and ultimately to study its role as a preventative agent. One out of six American men will develop prostate cancer. More than 218,000 men are expected to be diagnosed with the disease in 2007, according to the American Cancer Society, and about
27,000 will die from it.

In a separate unrelated study Dr. Joseph Quinn, associate professor of neurology, OHSU School of Medicine and the Portland Veterans Affairs Medical Center, is leading the multicenter, National Institute on Aging-funded trial testing whether docosahexaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid, can impact the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Recent European studies and the Framingham Heart Study found that people with the highest blood levels of DHA were about half as likely to develop dementia as those with lower levels. Dr. Quinn is working with colleagues around the country to evaluate DHA in a randomized, double-blind study in which participants will receive either the DHA or a placebo as part of a nationwide consortium of leading Alzheimer's disease researchers supported by NIA. Researchers will primarily evaluate whether taking DHA over many months slows the progression of both cognitive (thinking) and functional decline in people with mild to moderate Alzheimer's. During the 18-month experiment, investigators will measure the progress of the disease using standard tests for cognitive change and ability to carry out daily living activities, such as managing finances, cooking and dressing. [Source: DukeHealth.org article 3 Jun 07 ++]


HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS: When it comes to hurricanes and tropical storms it pays to be prepared and take steps to help ensure the safety of your family and your home. A helpful resource is the Florida Department of Financial Affairs website www.fldfs.com. Here you can find information on how to file an insurance claim, answers to your most-frequently-asked insurance questions, and download disaster preparedness guides. The “Hurricane Toolkit” at http://www.fldfs.com/Consumers/hurrican ... oolkit.pdf is designed to help you make critical financial decisions during hurricane season. This toolkit contains hurricane preparedness tips, emergency contact information and lists the information you will need to have on hand in the event you need to make a claim. It can be downloaded or you can call 1(800) 342-2762 to have one mailed to you. A few precautionary steps you should take are:

1. Develop an emergency communication plan. In case family members are separated from one another during a disaster (a real possibility during the day when adults are at work and children are at school), have a plan for getting back together. Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the family contact. After a disaster, it's often easier to call long distance. Make sure everyone in the family knows the name, address, and phone number of the contact person.
2. Create a hurricane supply kit which includes: Flashlight and extra batteries; Portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries; First aid kit and manual; Emergency food and water - enough to last 3-7 days; Non-electric can opener; Essential medicine; Cash and credit cards; Sturdy shoes.
3. Make sure that you have wood/shutters pre-cut and ready to mount to your windows in the event of a storm.
4. Test your generator and make any necessary repairs.
5. Have an evacuation plan and make sure that your friends and family know the plan.
6. Make arrangements for pets.
7. If a hurricane approaches, Stay Informed!
[Source: FCFO Consumer eViews Newsletter 1 Jun 07 ++]


VA CONSOLIDATED MAIL-OUT PHARMACY: With mail-out pharmaceuticals for veterans already a $3 billion annual operation for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the department made a major expansion in its future capability with the dedication 11 JUN of a new building and improved production system for the Dallas VA Consolidated Mail Outpatient Pharmacy. VA opened its first mail-out pharmacy in 1994. The seven existing mail-out pharmacies have become valuable partners in VA's total health care program for veterans. With an annual budget of $3 billion, these pharmacies dispense 75% of all VA prescriptions. Consolidated Mail Outpatient Pharmacies will handle nearly 100 million prescriptions this year, a quadrupling of service compared to the 25 million prescriptions dispensed 10 years ago. Most pharmaceuticals are mailed within 48 hours of the mail-out pharmacy receiving the prescription. VA mail-out pharmacies begin processing pharmaceuticals after downloading electronic prescriptions from VA health care providers. Medicines are mailed directly to patients. VA's seven consolidated mail-out pharmacies are located in Boston MA, Charleston SC, Chicago IL, Dallas TX, Leavenworth KS, Nashville TN, and Tucson AZ. [Source: VA News Release 12 Jun 07 ++]


DEATH ISSUES: Death is a subject most of us avoid thinking about, at least in detail, until we reach an advanced age unless it is thrust upon us unexpectedly. But there are some practical things that should be considered for the sake of the survivors. When somebody dies, do you know what things must be done just to meet the requirements of the law? And what things ought to be done beforehand in order to ease the stress on family members? Classes on death and dying at Pasco Hernando Community College provide some tips and identify some of the requirements, most of which are handled by a funeral director in cooperation with a surviving spouse or family members. Some of these are:

- There must be a death certificate that is signed either by the attending doctor or the county medical examiner and then filed with the county health department. It is not required but helpful to have a birth certificate or other document to verify the age of the deceased.
- You will need several copies. One will have to be filed with Social Security. One will have to be filed with the will. You may need additional ones for insurance companies, banks, or other entities (particularly those that involve property). And you should have one for your records.
- If the deceased is a veteran, or the spouse of a veteran, who wants to be buried in a national cemetery (it does not have to be in the death location—it can be anywhere in the nation), you must have the veteran’s discharge paper (Form DD214).
- There will have to be a burial permit. Although it is not a requirement, it certainly eases the stress on family in a situation full of stress if the deceased has a written or, at least, an oral directive outlining preferences for funeral arrangements, notes Brewer. The directive could be a part of a will or a separate document.
- Perhaps the most important of those choices is whether the body is to be embalmed or cremated. There may be religious as well as personal considerations involved. The decision can be divisive among family members. That factor is especially applicable if there is no surviving spouse. In the absence of a written directive, there can be no cremation unless ALL the children sign permission for the procedure.
- A directive also helps in such decisions as to whether there is to be a memorial service, if it is to be held in a church or funeral chapel and where the burial is to take place. Those decisions, along with many others, play a big part in the cost of the funeral. For information on a Green burial in the United States refer to www.naturaldeathcare.org. For information on burial at sea refer to http://usmilitary.about.com/cs/generali ... burial.htm.
- Generally speaking, cremation costs about half the price of embalming. But while cremation can cost as little as around $700, as compared to probably about $1,500 for a bare-bones embalming, a funeral with a cremation can be in excess of $12,000. The average normal funeral in Florida runs closer to $3,000.
- There are a wide range of prices involved for a variety of services that can be included in a funeral. The choice of a cemetery and the location within that cemetery can be a significant cost, ranging from about $300 to around $10,000. Factors involved include whether it is a for-profit, perpetual care cemetery or a community cemetery, whether burial is in a mausoleum or in the ground, and the distance you have to walk to get to the plot.
- A major cost can be that of the casket. There’s almost no limit to the price of some of the more expensive ones. Other cost factors include picking up the body, whether there is to be a visitation or a graveside ceremony. In addition, consideration has to be given on holding a memorial service, placing newspaper notices, whether there will be memorial cards and perhaps a video recording of the service.
- One cost that people don’t ordinarily think of is a vault. Every grave must have a concrete or metal vault to prevent a collapse over time.

A funeral director can help the grieving family by leading them patiently through the ropes of what must be done and what choices there are that fit within their budget. Most directors will meet with a family both before and after services to avoid overwhelming them with details all at once. If you have questions about any subject connected with aging, except medical conditions, write to Life to the Fullest, Hernando Today, 15299 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville, Fla. 34613, or send an e-mail to ataft@herald.com. [Source: Hernando Today Adon Taft article 5 Jun 07 ++]


MILITARY HEALTH CARE GROWTH UPDATE 01: The Government Accountability Office (GAO) released its long-awaited report to Congress on Military Health Care. The GAO was required by the FY 2007 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to evaluate factors identified by the DoD as contributing to increased TRICARE expenditures, the likelihood of achieving savings through proposed increased enrollment fees and deductibles, and increased pharmacy co-payments. DoD attributed its increased health care spending ($17.4 billion in 2000 to $35.4 billion in 2005) to medical care inflation, benefit enhancements required by law, and increased number of eligible beneficiaries choosing TRICARE. GAO’s investigation found:
- Estimated medical care inflation was not based on DoD’s actual spending trends, but on the Office of Management and Budget’s inflation rates for various TRICARE components.
- DoD’s used incomplete information about TRICARE programs in developing the cost estimates to calculate anticipated TRICARE costs.
- DoD lacked documentation on how the health care cost associated with Global War on Terror was calculated.
- Increased spending per TRICARE beneficiary from 2001 to 2005 was active duty, 7.3%; active duty family members, 8.6%; and retirees and dependents under age 65, 7.2%. Separate analysis showed an increase of 16.2% in TRICARE for Life spending from 2003 to 2006.
- The GAO found DoD was unlikely to achieve its expected $9.8 billion savings over five years through increased TRICARE fees and deductibles for retirees and dependents under the age of 65. DoD had based its estimate on a reduction of 500,000 retirees and dependents under age 65 beneficiaries who would chose to leave or not enroll in TRICARE, thus saving the Department from having to pay for these beneficiaries’ health care.

According to the GAO, there are many reasons for DoD’s savings miscalculation:
- Projected number of TRICARE beneficiaries who would drop out or not enroll was too high because older and sicker individuals in this group were unlikely to have lower-priced health care insurance options available and stay in TRICARE.
- Estimated savings were too high because older and sicker beneficiaries who chose to stay or enroll would incur greater-than-average medical expenses.
- Proposed savings, without the loss of TRICARE beneficiaries, would equal $2.5 billion over 5 years, not $9.8 billion.
- Accurately forecasting savings by DoD was hampered by uncollected and compiled data, such as the cost of other health insurance options and beneficiaries’ access to them.

The report found DoD’s $1.5 billion expected savings through increased retail pharmacy co-payments for all beneficiaries except active duty service members was unlikely. The reasons DoD overestimated the pharmacy savings were that estimated savings were based on a study using non-DoD employer-sponsored insurance programs that was not analogous to DoD’s situation and Increased pharmacy co-payments would not be large enough to offset the higher cost of beneficiaries’ prescription(s) filled at retail pharmacies. While this report was not delivered in time for the House and Senate Armed Services Committees to consider in developing their versions of the FY 2008 NDAA, it may provide useful information for the House and Senate Conferees who will develop the final version of the bill. To view the entire report “TRICARE Cost-sharing Proposals Would Help Offset Increasing Health Care Spending, But Projected Savings Are Likely Overestimated”., refer to: http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d07647.pdf. [Source: NMFA Government & You e-News 6 Jun 07 ++]


NEW YORK MILITARY ASSISTANCE: Governor Eliot Spitzer has announced a series of measures designed to assist families of deployed soldiers and other military personnel in New York. Spitzer stressed that the package of assistance identified below was the beginning of an effort to better address the needs of military personnel and their families. He said that an interagency task force within his administration would continue to work on other initiatives:

1. Housing Ownership: Initiation of a new Housing for Veterans Program designed to help veterans across the state achieve homeownership. As part of this initiative, the State of New York Mortgage Authority (SONYMA) will be offering a $10 million program to provide eligible veterans a below-market mortgage with a fixed interest rate to help purchase a home. This program will provide mortgages at interest rates substantially lower than conventional financing. Low-interest financing coupled with SONYMA’s closing cost assistance, construction incentives, and remodeling financing, will greatly enhance the ability of U.S. military veterans to buy or improve their homes.

2. Rental Housing: Approval of tax incentives for the construction of approximately 200 housing units to be built in the Fort Drum area. This project, Summit Wood in the town of Watertown, will provide rental housing for low and moderate-income families. The project is being funded through DHCR’s Low Income Housing Tax Credit Program.

3. Social Services: Addressing the multiple needs of military families dealing with lengthy deployments overseas and with the stress of service during times of war. To accomplish this the Office of Mental Health (OMH), the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS), the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) and the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) will offer the following programs and services:
- a. Funding of approximately $300,000 for family support and counseling services at the Carthage Area Hospital and the Samaritan Medical Center near Fort Drum dealing with the stresses associated with coping with deployment of loved ones;
- b. Expand family support services through the Independent Living Center in Jefferson County to provide support to families who have children with emotional problems;
- c. $200,000 to the Jefferson County Department of Social Services to provide short-term family crisis counseling and for a joint human services military day at Fort Drum to increase awareness of available community resources;
- d. $280,000 for alcohol prevention counseling in the main Fort Drum impacted schools and the creation of a new “Creating Lasting Family Connections” program to directly address the issues that are emerging in Jefferson County families relate to wartime military deployments;
- f. Expediting the expansion of an outpatient clinic at Credo Community Center for the Treatment of Addictions, Inc. In Jefferson County; and
- g. Give priority status to returning military personnel for admissions to St. Lawrence Addiction Treatment Center.

4. DVA: The State Division of Veteran Affairs (DVA) will establish a full-time state veterans counselor in Watertown to improve coordination of existing services in the Fort Drum region & schedule training sessions with county mental health, social services and substance abuse providers to help them understand veteran eligibility and available services.
[Source: North County Gazette article 29 May 07 ++]


POW/MISSING PERSONNEL DATABASE: The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced 4 JUN that an electronic database listing the names of servicemembers still unaccounted for from World War II is now available for family members and researchers. This new listing will aid researchers and analysts in WWII remains recovery operations. Prior to this three-year effort, no comprehensive list of those missing from WWII has existed. This database, listing nearly 78,000 names, was compiled by researchers from DPMO and the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command. They used hard-copy sources including “The American Graves Registration Service Rosters of Military Personnel Whose Remains were not Recovered” from the National Archives II repository in College Park, Md., and “The World War II Rosters of the Dead.” Once transferred into electronic formats, they used computer programs to compare the two lists and determined possible discrepancies among the entries. These differences were then resolved using additional sources from the National Archives and thousands of personnel files from the Washington National Records Center.

After more than three years of research and coordination to transfer information into an electronic format, efforts to gather more data on unaccounted-for WWII servicemembers continue. New names and information will be added as historical documents and personnel files are located. The names of servicemen whose remains are recovered and identified in the future will be removed as families accept the identification and inter their loved ones in cemeteries of their choice. This WWII database, along with databases listing the missing from the Korean War, Cold War, Vietnam War and Gulf War, are available on DPMO’s Web site at http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo . For additional information on the Defense Department’s mission to account for missing Americans, refer to the DPMO Web site or call (703) 699-1169. [Source: DoD News Release 689-07 dtd 4 Jun 07 ++]


TWILIGHT BRIGADE: The dying are one of Society’s most unrecognized and underserved minorities. As individuals near end-of-life they are often ignored, discounted, misunderstood and forgotten. The Twilight Brigade, Compassion in Action is a non-profit organization committed to raising society’s consciousness about the needs of the dying through community and professional education, advocacy, and direct services to the terminally ill and their loved ones. It is an international organization that recruits, trains, and places volunteers providing companionship during the last months of life and at time of death. With more than 76 million Baby Boomers now confronting the mortality of their relatives and friends many of whom are Veterans, this program is providing a much-needed link to assure quality in end-of-life care. Their program for veterans “Twilight Brigade, Compassion in Action” varies slightly in that volunteers sign up to visit patients who have been diagnosed as terminal and who request visitation. They see the veterans daily, at a home or in a hospital or nursing home, for what can be weeks or months, and often get to know them well. The Twilight Brigade was founded in Los Angeles in 1997 and now has chapters at 17 VA facilities in North America. Their website http://www.thetwilightbrigade.com provides education on dealing with the death process plus Chapter contact information for obtaining their no cost services. It also provides a means to sign up for their “Passing Thoughts” email newsletter [Source: Passing Thoughts Spring 07 ++]


NAVY SABBATICALS: The Navy is looking at a pilot program that would let officers and enlisted members leave the service for up to two years with a guarantee of acceptance back if still qualified—but with no requirement to return. The program might appeal to sailors wishing to take care of newborn children, carry out caregiving for family members, or attend colleges or universities. While on such a “sabbatical” they would not receive pay or other benefits. Enlisted sailors would keep their rank and time in grade, as well as qualifications for advancement. Although officials are still considering how to implement the plan for officers, they might just be moved into different year groups. The Navy has no time table for completing the study, but officials expect a decision within six months. [Source: Armed Forces News 1 Jun 07 ++]


VA HEALTH CARE FUNDING UPDATE 09: Draft legislation to boost funding for veterans programs to $87.7 billion next year is being hailed as a major victory by organizations representing millions of America’s former defenders. The $109.2 billion bill crafted by the House Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee provides $43.29 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs. “This represents a significant, much-needed investment in health care and the benefits delivery system for our nation’s sick and disabled veterans,” according to AMVETS, Disabled American Veterans, Paralyzed Veterans of America and Veterans of Foreign Wars. The four veterans’ service organizations said the bill provides a $6 billion increase in VA health care funding, exceeding their own recommendation by $294 million. “This is the first time that lawmakers have surpassed our recommendations in the 21 years that we have been publishing The Independent Budget,” the groups noted. The bill also funds the VA biomedical research program at $480 million, as recommended in The Independent Budget, an increase of $68 million over the 2007 funding level.

In addition to the increase for veterans medical care and construction projects, the bill includes enough funding for the VA to hire more than 1,000 new employees to tackle a large backlog of almost 640,000 disability compensation claims. Cutting the backlog would reduce the time veterans must wait for a decision on their benefits, which averages 177 days for an original claim and more than two years for initial appeals. “The proposed increase in VA funding is recognition that caring for our veterans is a continuing cost of national security and a willingness to provide the resources to meet those needs,” the groups said. They praised Subcommittee Chairman Chet Edwards (D-TX) for his leadership in crafting the measure, as well House Budget Committee Chairman John Spratt (D-SC) Appropriations Committee Chairman David R. Obey (D-WI) and Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) for their support of additional funding for veterans programs. The Independent Budget provides the nation's decision-makers a veterans' perspective on federal spending and national policy priorities for veterans programs. These recommendations are well-considered policy and funding proposals based on the actual needs of the men and women these programs were created to serve. As a comprehensive, authoritative policy document, The Independent Budget focuses on funding recommendations for veterans health care, benefits delivery, medical facilities construction, veterans' cemeteries and other so-called discretionary programs that will be needed in the coming fiscal year. [Source: DAV Legislative Support Specialist Caren Wooley msg 1 Jun 07 ++]


MICHIGAN VET CEMETERY UPDATE 01: On 3 JUN the Great Lake National Cemetery in Holly MI was dedicated. Burials actually began at the 544-acre site in Oakland County on 17 OCVT 05 and more than 2,500 interments have already taken place. Nearly 487,000 veterans and their families live within the service radius of the national cemetery, which is 45 miles northwest of Detroit. Phase 1 construction of the cemetery, which is nearly complete, includes a public information center, an administration and maintenance complex, two committal shelters and an entrance area. The developed area has capacity for 6,500 full-casket gravesites, 1,450 in-ground cremation gravesites and 1,768 columbaria niches for cremation remains. Veterans with a discharge other than dishonorable, their spouses and eligible dependent children can be buried in a national cemetery. Other burial benefits available for all eligible veterans, regardless of whether they are buried in a national cemetery or a private cemetery, include a burial flag, a Presidential Memorial Certificate and a government headstone or marker. In the midst of the largest cemetery expansion since the Civil War, VA operates 125 national cemeteries in 39 states and Puerto Rico, and 33 soldiers’ lots and monument sites. More than three million Americans, including veterans of every war and conflict, are buried in VA’s national cemeteries on more than 17,000 acres of land. Information on VA burial benefits can be obtained from national cemetery offices, from the Internet at http://www.cem.va.gov or by calling VA at 1(800) 827-1000. Information about the Great Lakes National Cemetery can be obtained from the cemetery office at (248) 328-0386. [Source: VA News Release 1 Jun 07 ++]


KENTUCKY VET HOME: The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs will build a 60-bed nursing home, outpatient building and 30-bed domiciliary to replace existing facilities at its Leestown Road campus. The decision by Veterans Affairs Secretary R. James Nicholson was announced to members of Congress yesterday by the VA's Office of Congressional and Legislative Affairs. "The plan will create an efficient, cost-effective and appropriately sized footprint that will reduce vacant and underused space on this campus," according to a document the VA provided to lawmakers. Most of the buildings at the campus were built between 1930 and 1950, and while well maintained, have exceeded their useful life for clinical and support functions. A local advisory panel had recommended the plan in February after a series of meetings on the topic. The process was part of the VA's national CARES initiative -- or Capital Asset Realignment for Enhanced Services. According to a preliminary report issued in JAN, construction of the new facilities, estimated to cost $86 million, could begin in 2009 if funding is approved and be complete by 2018. The new complex would offer larger patient rooms, private nursing home rooms, private bathrooms in all patient rooms, wider hallways and entryways, additional treatment and therapy spaces, and improved parking. The new facility will be built on the mostly vacant southeastern portion of the 135-acre campus. The remaining 74 acres will be redeveloped through partnerships with the private sector.

Kentucky Veteran homes provide long-term skilled nursing care for Kentucky's veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States. Amenities include: primary care physician on site, 24-hour nursing care, pharmacy services, physical therapy in house, gift shop, chaplain on staff, daily activities, arts and crafts, library on site, one wing designated for dementia/Alzheimer's disease, licensed day care for employees' children (which allows delightful and therapeutic interaction between our veterans and the children). Residents are charged a reasonable fee per month based upon the veteran's assets and income. Applications can be downloaded at http://www.kdva.net/okvcapp.pdf. There are currently three homes in operation:

- Western Kentucky Veterans Center 120-bed facility, 926 Veterans Drive, Hanson, Kentucky 42413 (270) 322-9087, toll free (877) 662-0008, TTYS (270) 322-9752 opened 14 March 2002. Situated on 33 acres of farmland 5 miles north of Madisonville.
- Thomson-Hood Veterans Center 285-bed facility, 100 Veterans Drive, Wilmore, Kentucky 40390 (859) 858-2814, toll free (800) 928-4838, TTYS (859) 858-4226 opened 18 August 1991.
- Eastern Kentucky Veterans Center 120-bed facility, 200 Veterans Drive, Hazard, Kentucky 41701 (606) 435-6196, toll free (877) 856-0004, TTYS (606) 435-6203 opened 21 March 2002.
[Source: Lexington Herald-Leader Karla Ward article 31 May 07 ++]


OHIO VETERAN SERVICES: Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland said 30 MAY that his state does a poor job of connecting veterans to available services, and a new council will study how to better help them collect disability benefits and pension payments. Strickland’s goal is to eventually form a cabinet-level veterans department to drastically improve the federal government's ranking of Ohio as 43rd among the states for veterans use of the services. The federal government assists injured veterans with disability benefits and veterans of certain income levels with pensions. An executive order Strickland has signed requires a 22-member Veterans Study Council to look into how the state can pull more aid from the federal government. With better organization, the state could pull in up to $500 million in available benefits, Strickland said.

Strickland doesn't know why Ohio - which has the nation's sixth largest population of veterans - had lagged other states in securing federal money for veterans. More than 1 million veterans live in Ohio, and thousands more military personnel are serving currently. Roughly 9.8% of Ohio veterans receive either disability compensation or pension benefits, or both. The national average is 12.1%. The governor already has an Office of Veterans Affairs, which advises him on veterans issues and oversees county-level offices. But creating a cabinet office, which would be equal to agencies such as the health department or the prisons department, would give the issue more visibility and status. Ohio veterans often get assistance from local commissions to pay for expenses such as utility bills, but they must navigate the federal government for more long-term help, such as the pension benefits. A state veterans department could help by placing more pressure on the federal government. The study council will use existing staff and resources from the governor's veterans affairs office and will not require additional funding. [Source: CantonRep.com Stephen Majors article 31 May 07 ++]


VET CEMETERY ARKANSAS: The Associated Press reported that a group in Fayetteville Arkansas is trying to raise the $1.7 million that would be needed to expand Fayetteville National Cemetery. Roger McClain, president of Regional National Cemetery Improvement Corporation, says the current cemetery is expected to be full by 2023. The land purchase would ensure veterans are accommodated beyond that date. Cemetery Director Tommy Monk says the federal government is no longer buying land for veterans' cemeteries, so the private effort is necessary. Monk says the private group began buying land for Fayetteville National Cemetery in 1984. The group has helped the burying ground expand from seven acres to 15 acres over the past few years. [Source: AP article 29 May 07 ++]


MILITARY ENLISTMENT TIPS: Military recruiters are generally honest and trained professionals, but keep in mind they need to sign up applicants to meet their goals. Meeting a recruiter should be an informative, stress-free experience. For those looking to check out or join the military here are 10 tips that will assist you in making a decision and ensure you get what was promised:

1. Get it in writing. There is no such thing as a verbal promise. Guarantees such as MOS, bonuses, GI Bill, and duty station must be reflected in the enlistment contract.
2. Don't make emotional decisions. Never make the decision on your first or second visit. Take your time. Don't make a snap decision and don't let your emotions influence it.
3. Go with a buddy. Talking to a recruiter by yourself is a bad idea. Take a friend, your parents or someone else you trust. Remember they will try to recruit your buddy too.
4. Getting the job you want: Score well on the Armed Service Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) and you can most likely get the job you want, assuming you meet any other specified criteria, such as physical or security requirements. Keep in mind, however, that certain jobs may not be available due to over manning. In that case, you may want to wait until there is an opening for the job you want. Depending on how important the choice of a particular branch is to you, consider the possibility that another service may be able to offer you the job you want. Practice and take the ASVAB. Consider retesting if you believe you can achieve a better score and qualify for the job you want. Make sure that any guarantees are in the enlistment contract. To get help with the ASVAB check out www.military.com/ASVAB.
5. Being stationed where you want: Military people move, but recruiters sometimes offer programs for qualified candidates to start at the base or in the region of their choice.
6. Getting more pay: If you have special training or education, you could qualify to go in with higher rank and pay than others. Ask the recruiter, as these high-demand specialties changes.
7. Delayed entry? The delayed entry program is often used to allow high school students to graduate, but it can be used for other reasons, such as training in the spring or fall to avoid extreme weather.
8. Enlistment period decision? The length of your commitment often determines the amount of benefits (like money for college) you'll receive. Make the recruiter spell these out for you. Remember the shortest term possible is generally two years but some job training requires a longer commitment. The service will give you plenty of opportunities to re-enlist, extend your term, or make it a career. Enlisting for two years also makes you eligible for re-enlistment bonuses later and lets you keep your options open down the line.
9. Review contract before signing: Typos and errors can cost you money, put you in the wrong job or send you to the wrong place. Get the contract perfect before you sign it. Don't let anyone tell you it can be corrected later.
10. Ask questions & be honest: It is important that you are candid and frank with your recruiter. Don't hesitate to ask questions. You should work to get the job you want, but understand that your role as a servicemember comes first. Don't sign up just to get money for college or a job. Be honest with yourself. Serving in the military is not like a regular job. You cannot just quit when the going gets tough. The military requires diligence, dedication and a commitment to teamwork. Remember, your actions could potentially cost or save lives.
Bonus Tip: The Buddy Deal. Services have programs where friends who sign up together can go through training together, be stationed together or even start with advanced rank and pay just because you sign up together.
[Source: Military.com Apr 06 www.military.com/Recruiting]


TAX BURDEN BY STATE: When selecting a location to reside in one as a military retiree one consideration is the tax burden you will have to bear living in that location. This can be determined by state on the MOAA web site www.moaa.org/serv/serv_financial/index.htm using their 2006 Tax guide. Here is shown a state ranking with the average resident’s tax burden based on income. Each state's tax burden shown represents a combination of state and local tax burdens. Maine ranks highest at 13% with Alaska the lowest at 6/4%. California, Florida, and Hawaii which are more desirable locations to retirees because of weather have tax burdens of 10%, 9.2%, and 11.5% respectively. Military retirees and veterans may be eligible for additional tax breaks available to them as determined by each state’s tax laws. On the same website are Links to each state at which information can be found about sales tax, personal income tax, property tax, and inheritance and estate tax plus Links to state tax websites and state tax forms. [Source: Various Mar 06]


VETERAN LEGISLATION STATUS 14 JUN 07: For a listing of Congressional bills of interest to the veteran community that have been introduced in the 110th Congress refer to the Bulletin attachment. By clicking on the bill number you can access the actual legislative language of the bill and see if your representative has signed on as a cosponsor. Support of these bills through cosponsorship by other legislators is critical if they are ever going to move through the legislative process for a floor vote to become law. A good indication on that likelihood is the number of cosponsors who have signed onto the bill. A cosponsor is a member of Congress who has joined one or more members in his/her chamber (i.e. House or Senate) to sponsor a bill or amendment. The member who introduces the bill is considered the sponsor. Members subsequently signing on are called cosponsors. Any number of members may cosponsor a bill in the House or Senate. At http://thomas.loc.gov you can also review a copy of each bill, determine its current status, the committee it has been assigned to, and if your legislator is a sponsor or cosponsor of it. To determine what bills, amendments your representative has sponsored, cosponsored, or dropped sponsorship on refer to http://thomas.loc.gov/bss/d110/sponlst.html. The key to increasing cosponsorship is letting our representatives know of veterans feelings on issues. At the end of some listed bills is a web link that can be used to do that. Otherwise, you can locate on http://thomas.loc.gov who your representative is and his/her phone number, mailing address, or email/website to communicate with a message or letter of your own making. [Source: RAO Bulletin Attachment 14 Jun 07 ++]


Lt. James "EMO" Tichacek, USN (Ret)
Director, Retiree Assistance Office, U.S. Embassy Warden & IRS VITA Baguio City RP
PSC 517 Box RCB, FPO AP 96517
Tel: (760) 839-9003 when in U.S. & Cell: 0915-361-3503 when in Philippines.
Email: raoemo@sbcglobal.net (Primary) & raoemo@mozcom.com (Alternate)
Web: http://post_119_gulfport_ms.tripod.com/rao1.html
AL/AMVETS/DAV/FRA/NAUS/NCOA/MOAA/USDR/VFW/VVA/CG33/DD890/AD37 member

[boardman]

RAO Bulletin Update 1 July 2007
Page 1

THIS BULLETIN UPDATE CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING ARTICLES:

-- Tricare Uniform Formulary [20] ------ (More DoD Proposals)
-- VA Data Breach [34] ----------------------- ($20 Million Budgeted)
-- VA Data Breach [35] -------------------------------- (VA IG Report)
-- Veterans Pride Initiative [01] ------------- (Wear Your Medals)
-- TMOP [07] --------------------------------------- (OTC Option)
-- VA Duty to Veterans’ Families] ------------- (Ongoing Suit)
-- VA Mileage Reimbursement [01] --------- (250% Increase)
-- Filipino Vet Inequities [02] ------- (S.0057 Passes Committee)
-- Tricare Anesthetic Coverage Expansion ----------- (Dental)
-- SSA COLA 2008 ------------------------------- (1.4% Forecast)
-- Reserve E-Mail System ----------------------- (Old System Replaced)
-- Reserve Retirement Age [11] --------------- (Window Dressing)
-- VA Category 8 Care [03] ----------------------- (S.1233 Impact)
-- Changing Military Records ----------- (Request Within 3 years)
-- Changing Military Records [01] ----- (Application Procedure)
-- Changing Military Records [02] ----------------- (Board Action)
-- Communicating With Congress [02] ------------ (800 Numbers)
-- PTSD [15] ----------------------------- (Pathway Home Program)
-- AO Compensation [Non-Vietnam] [03] ---- (SC Presumption)
-- NATO Air Force Medals --------- (Mission Involvement Awards)
-- VA Category 8 Care [02] ---------- (1.8 Million Vets Uninsured)
-- Computer Security ----------------------- (Spyware Elimination)
-- USFSPA Lawsuit [13] --------------- (Supreme Court Rejection)
-- VA Spinal Cord Injury Services ------ (New Milwaukee Facility)
-- Overseas NSO Document Request ---------- (Philippine Records)
-- TAPS ------------------------------------------ (Survivor Support)
-- Selective Service System (Draft) [04] --- (Surviving Children)
-- VA Homeless Vets [04] ----------------------- (On the Rise)
-- Vet Cemetery Florida [06] ------------- (HR 2642 Passes House)
-- SBA Vet Issues [04] -------------------- (HR 2366 Passes House)
-- VA Budget 2008 [06] ------------ (Senate Committee Approved)
-- VA Project HERO ----------------------- (Vet Groups Opposed)
-- Veteran Disinterment ----------------------- (Family Decision)
-- Credit Card Penalties ---------- (Congressional Hearing Impact)
-- Environmental Certificate Tng Program ---- (OIF/OEF/ONE Vets)
-- DoD Mental Health TF [04] ------------------ (Task Force Results)
-- Wounded Warrior Assistance [01] ----- (SASC Approves S.1606)
-- COLA 2008 [05] ----------------------- (0.8% above April's)
-- VDBC [18] ------------- (Disability Compensation Disparity)
-- Digital Camera Basics ------------------------- (How to Use)
-- Prostrate Problems [03] ------------------ (New Blood Test)
-- Texas Tuition Waiver Denials ----------- (Immigrant Vets)
-- Veteran Legislation Status 30 JUN 07 -------- (Where We Stand)


Editor’s Note: Attached is a listing of veteran legislation with current cosponsor status that has been introduced in the 110th Congress. To see any of these bills passed into law representatives need input from their veteran constituents to instruct them on how to vote.
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TRICARE UNIFORM FORMULARY UPDATE 20: On 21 JUN, the DoD Beneficiary Advisory Panel (BAP) met to review DoD proposals to move certain cholesterol, prostate, and blood pressure medications to the third tier, or $22 copay level. They also re-reviewed some acid reflux drugs that were originally evaluated in 2005. Proposals included:
- To move cholesterol drugs Tricor, Antara, Omacor, and Welchol to the third tier. Six cholesterol medications will remain on the formulary at $3 or $9 copays. In order to persuade beneficiaries to use Triglide, a low-cost brand-name drug, DoD is proposing to lower the $9 copay to $3.
- To move prostate drug Avodart to the third tier, leaving the generic Proscar on the formulary for $3.
- Re-evaluating certain acid reflux medications that were originally reviewed in FEB 05. At the time, they moved multiple drugs, including Nexium, to $22, based on their relative high cost. Now, DoD has gotten a reduced price on Nexium and proposes to reduce its copay all the way down to $3, even though it's not a generic drug. However, DoD is proposing to put a "prior-authorization" requirement for this class of drugs, requiring beneficiaries to try either Nexium or Prilosec before being authorized to use other drugs in the same class. Current prescriptions for the other acid reflux drugs would be grandfathered at $22. But future prescriptions wouldn't be covered for those drugs, even for the $22 copay, unless Tricare approves a doctor's statement that there's a medical necessity to prescribe them (e.g., because Prilosec and Nexium aren't effective or have adverse effects for the patient).
- To move hypertension and chronic heart failure drugs Avapro, Avalide, Benicar, and Diovan to the third tier. This would leave Atacand, Cozaar, Hyzaar, and Micardis on the formulary at the lower copay.

MOAA's CDR John Class (USN-Ret), a member of the BAP convened to comment on the proposed changes, took the opportunity to reiterate concerns that beneficiaries using the affected drugs aren't being given adequate notification about either the copayment change or about which medications are still available for the lower copay. Since DoD doesn't notify beneficiaries at all, and doesn't allow military associations time to print the notices in their magazines, most beneficiaries do not find out about the changes until their pharmacist starts charging them $22 instead of the $9. Without an education program, they usually just grind their teeth and pay the $22, without being made aware of lower-cost alternatives. This insensitive process causes both the beneficiary and the government to pay far more than they need to since because the intended purpose of the copay increase (i.e. to cause beneficiaries to choose lower-cost medications) is unlikely to be realized. The beneficiary panel's concerns will be submitted to Dr. S. Ward Casscells, the new Assistant Secretary of Defense (Health Affairs), for final decision. For more information on these and other drugs, refer to the Tricare pharmacy web site www.tricare.mil/pharmacy/#. [Source: MOAA Leg Up 29 Jun 07++]
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VA DATA BREACH UPDATE 34: The Veterans Affairs Department has set aside more than $20 million to respond to its latest data breach. The department does not expect to spend the full $20 million, but designated that much because the breach potentially puts the identities of nearly a million physicians and VA patients at risk, said Bob Howard, the department's chief information officer. Howard spoke at The E-Gov Institute's Government Health IT Conference and Exhibition in Washington. "We have no evidence that [information is at risk]. None whatsoever, but we don't take the chance," Howard said. "The attitude of the VA right now is if we think we've put anybody's information at risk, then we need to step up to the plate and try to remedy that." The breach occurred in January, when a hard drive went missing from a Birmingham AL VA medical research facility. The drive contained highly sensitive information on nearly all U.S. physicians and medical data for more than a half million VA patients. Any physician who billed Medicaid and Medicare through 2004 could be affected.

The hard drive has not been recovered. The VA estimates that about half of the 1.3 million doctors whose information was on the hard drive, and 254,000 veterans, are potentially at risk. This group was notified by mail at the end of May. The letters noted that VA is providing credit monitoring services through a General Services Administration blanket purchase agreement from the multiple award schedules program. The credit monitoring funds will come out of the VA's fiscal 2007 cyber security budget, but Congress included an extra $15 million in the recently passed emergency supplemental bill for funding the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan (H.R. 2206). Because the January data breach occurred in a medical research facility, the technology office tried to get health care-related funds reprogrammed to cover the credit monitoring, Howard noted, but the effort was unsuccessful. Investigators are still trying to locate the hard drive and the FBI has offered a $25,000 reward for information leading to its return. [Source: GOVEXEC.com Daniel Pulliam article 14 Jan 07 ++]
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VA DATA BREACH UPDATE 35: The VA Inspector General’s internal report on the Alabama VA hospital that lost sensitive data on more than 1.5 million people in January reported their investigation found:
- The hospital had repeatedly failed to follow privacy regulations leading up to the incident.
- The employee directly responsible for the data initially lied to investigators and deleted files from his computer in an effort to hide the magnitude of the problem.
- The vast majority of the data, including Social Security numbers and private health information, was not protected by passwords or computer encryption. It could be used to commit Medicare billing fraud or identity theft, the report said, and
- The employee should never have had much of it in the first place.

The report found a “dysfunctional management structure that led to an overall breakdown of Managers failed to provide hands-on oversight, improperly used non-VA e-mail and selected an insecure office location without properly considering data security, it said. Although VA policy calls for protecting data through a computer scrambling process called encryption, the managers decided instead to lock the external drives in safes. But employees often left the drives outside the safes or took them offsite and there was no system for monitoring who accessed the safe, the report said. The criminal investigation into the drive’s disappearance remains open, and the inspector general reported finding no evidence of identity theft related to the information thus far.

The report, released 29 JUN, recommends “administrative action” against several employees, including the staffer, the managers of the program where he worked and the head of the Birmingham VA Medical Center. VA officials in Birmingham referred questions regarding the report to the national office, which did not respond to phone calls Friday afternoon. In a written response to the report, the department did not dispute the findings, management oversight, controls, and accountability” at the research site where the drive disappeared. The security breach occurred on Jan 22, when employees discovered an external computer hard drive missing from a satellite office that conducts specialty research on health care. Because the employee responsible for the drive initially lied about how much information was on it, the VA initially reported publicly that fewer than 50,000 people were affected. But investigators later determined that the drive contained information for more than 250,000 veterans and about 1.3 million medical providers across the country. The VA, which didn’t finish sending notifications until May 22, has since offered free credit monitoring to nearly 900,000 people whose Social Security numbers appear to have been compromised. The report marks the latest in a series of critical assessments of VA data-security practices. The agency has come under scrutiny for more than a year over a series of lapses, including the theft last spring of data on 26.5 million veterans from an employee’s home in Maryland. [Source: Associated Press Ben Evans article
29 Jun 07++]
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VETERANS PRIDE INITIATIVE UPDATE 01: Secretary of Veterans Affairs Jim Nicholson is urging all veterans across the country to pin on their military medals this Independence Day, July 4, to show their patriotism and pride in their service. Nicholson said, “We want to inspire the American people to recognize and honor the military service of their fellow citizens, and to engender a greater sense of pride and satisfaction on the part of the veterans for what they did for our country. This initiative shines a bright light on millions of our fellow citizens who answered the needs of our nation both in peace and in war.” Nicholson encourages the 24 million living Americans who have served in the armed forces to display their medals on the Fourth of July by pinning them on their civilian clothing over their left breast. Nicholson first urged veterans to wear their military decorations last Veterans Day under a program called “Veterans Pride Initiative.” The Initiative asks veterans to wear their medals on Independence Day, Memorial Day and Veterans Day, and when attending other patriotic events. Major U.S. veterans’ organizations have endorsed the initiative. For additional information about the initiative refer to http://www.va.gov/veteranspride/, where veterans can also learn how to replace lost medals or confirm the decorations to which they are entitled. [Source: VA Press Release 29 Jun 07 ++]
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TMOP UPDATE 07: A two-year test authorized by the 2007 National Defense Authorization Act now allows Tricare beneficiaries to substitute over-the-counter (OTC) versions of certain prescription drugs without a copayment. For now, the test includes the Tricare Mail Order Pharmacy (TMOP) only. Plans call for expansion to retail network pharmacies once program details are ironed out. “The drugs included in this test initially are among the most widely prescribed— those treating gastro-intestinal disorders,” said Army MG Elder Granger, Deputy Director, Tricare Management Activity. Known as “proton pump inhibitors,” this class of medications includes the prescription drugs Nexium, Prevacid, Aciphex, Protonix, Zegerid and Prilosec. Under the test, beneficiaries receiving a prescription proton pump inhibitor are eligible to receive Prilosec OTC, the only proton pump inhibitor available over the counter. The Department of Defense Pharmacy and Therapeutic Committee found there is no significant clinical difference between Prilosec OTC and its prescription-only counterparts. “By requesting that their doctors prescribe the OTC version, beneficiaries can save money on their copay, and there is the additional potential to save the government money as well,” said Granger. OTCs are generally less expensive—by as much as 400% in some cases.

Once the OTC test works its way to retail pharmacies, beneficiaries should not expect to walk into any drug store and get OTC products at no charge at the register, caution Tricare officials. Beneficiaries will still have to get a prescription from their doctor for the OTC drugs. Beneficiaries already taking the selected prescription proton pump inhibitors through the mail order pharmacy will get a letter telling them about the new program whenever they order medications that qualify them to participate in the OTC test project. Tricare encourages beneficiaries who haven’t used the mail order pharmacy in the past, but are taking medications included in the test, to get information on how to sign up at http://www.tricare.mil/pharmacy/tmop.cfm. Through the mail order program, initially beneficiaries can get up to a 90-day supply and have it delivered right to their mailbox. Medication classes under consideration for future testing include topical anti-fungals and non-sedating antihistamines. [Source: Tricare News Release 29 Jun 07 ++]
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VA DUTY TO VETERANS’ FAMILIES: Army veteran Arvid Brown, while serving in Saudi Arabia during the Persian Gulf War in 1991, was bitten by sand flies and contracted the parasitic disease Leishmaniasis. Sand fly bites are the most common vector by which this infectious disease is transmitted to humans. Upon discharge from active duty, Mr. Brown of Flint was treated at Michigan VA hospitals for service related symptoms on over 50 visits. The VA never looked for Leishmaniasis as a cause of his symptoms, ignoring his service and medical history. He was finally diagnosed by a private physician in Michigan with Leishmaniasis in 1998. His wife was infected with Leishmaniasis because no one ever diagnosed Brown’s and told him of the infectious nature of this disease and its ability to be transmitted by sexual activity. Mrs. Brown gave birth to two children both of whom were infected with Leishmaniasis in the womb. As she struggled to care for her husband and look after two young children with cerebral palsy, her own health rapidly deteriorated. She died at home of cancer
His wife and children sued the VA under the Federal Torts Claim Act in SEP 04 because they were infected with Leishmaniasis. The Government sought to have the case dismissed claiming that the VA owed no duty to the Veteran’s family. The family claimed that VA doctors committed malpractice in not diagnosing Leishmaniasis and failing to warn the wife that the disease could be transmitted to her and the children. Judge John Corbett O’Meara of the United States District Court, Eastern District of Michigan, denied the Government’s Motion for Judgment on the Pleadings which claimed that the Government owed no duty to the family of a Veteran in an Order dated 18 JUN 07. The Court, relying on Michigan law, concluded that VA doctors do owe family members a duty to warn of risk when patients present with symptoms of a disease that is well known to be contagious. A duty of reasonable care may arise on the part of the Government. The case against the VA will continue and the parties have agreed to try the issues of liability in the fall of 2007. [Source: Detroit News Paul Egan article 19 Jun 07 ++]
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VA MILEAGE REIMBURSEMENT UPDATE 01: The VA Committee approved a Sen. Jon Tester [D-MT] proposal to increase the mileage reimbursement rate for disabled vets who have to travel for VA health care. Previous attempts to increase the travel reimbursement rate never passed the VA Committee. Tester’s plan calls for increasing the VA’s travel reimbursement rate by more than 250%, from 11-cents to 28 ½ cents per mile. The measure also allows the VA to increase that rate to 48 ½ cents per mile in the future. It’s the first rate increase in 30 years. The VA Committee also approved a plan by a bipartisan trio of senators, including Tester, to create a $6 million grant program to give more transportation options to vets who live in rural areas. It also gives the VA authority to create pilot projects aimed at expanding health care in rural areas. Tester’s health care improvements are included in S.1233, a comprehensive veterans’ health care improvement bill. The bill now goes to the full Senate for consideration. [Source: Jon Tester Press Release 27 Jun 07 ++]
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FILIPINO VET INEQUITIES UPDATE 02: The Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs on 27 JUN approved legislation authored by U.S. Senator Daniel. K. Inouye that corrects a wrongful action committed against Filipino veterans of World War II, and provides them with fair and equitable treatment. Under Senator Inouye's provisions that are part of the Veterans' Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007, Filipino veterans of World War II would be officially restored to full veterans status, making them eligible for VA benefits and healthcare services that had been denied to them. Here are the highlights of the Filipino equity provisions:
- Restores full veterans status to Filipino veterans of World War II who lost this status under the Rescission Acts of 1946. This ends a long-standing injustice, and fulfills our nation's promises to those who served.
- Pays Filipino veterans of World War II who suffer from disabilities incurred or aggravated by military service with service-connected compensation at the full rate, regardless of where they live.
- Permits Filipino veterans of World War II and survivors residing in the United States to receive pensions and death pensions paid at the same rate and under the same conditions as U.S. veterans.
- Provides Filipino veterans of World War II residing outside of the United States a special pension and death pension paid at a lower flat rate which does not require documentation of income, assets, and medical expenses.

The legislation has Filipino veterans and survivors residing outside of the United States being paid at a lower rate because pension benefits are not paid for disabilities related to military service. They are paid to help improve the quality of life for wartime veterans and survivors with very low incomes. Also, virtually all elderly Filipino veterans of World War II are expected to have income and assets - which if counted under U.S. rules - would make them eligible for pensions. Therefore, by establishing a special pension program that is simpler and less costly to administer, these veterans will not have their income and assets counted or medical expenses deducted in determining eligibility for the flat rate pension. Another reason for the lower flat rate for Filipino veterans and survivors living outside of the United States: the wartime pension program requires monitoring and verification of income, assets, and medical expenses of pensioners. Income is verified in the United States through data matches with the Social Security Administration and the Internal Revenue Service. These kinds of systems are not available in the Philippines. The bill S.0057 now advances to the Senate floor for debate and vote. [Source: Senator Daniel Inouye Press Release 29 Jun 07 ++]
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TRICARE ANESTHETIC COVERAGE EXPANSION: Tricare will implement coverage for anesthesia services and associated costs for dental treatment for beneficiaries with developmental, mental or physical disabilities, and children age 5 or under beginning 1 JUL 07. Additionally, Tricare encourages beneficiaries who received these services between 17 OCY 06 and 1 JUL 07 to contact their Tricare regional contractor for help with reimbursement. “Tricare will do all that is possible to ensure that beneficiaries receive the appropriate payment for these services received since 17 OCT 06” said Army Maj. Gen. Elder Granger, Tricare’s Deputy Director. The National Defense Authorization Act of 2007 legislated the change, and Tricare revised the regional contracts to expand coverage for the services. The services require preauthorization through the regional Tricare contractors. The change in statute does not provide coverage for the actual dental care services. Coverage for dental care services is available through the Tricare Dental Program and the Tricare Retiree Dental Program. Tricare reminds beneficiaries that to avoid costly and extensive dental procedures requiring anesthesia, children should start seeing a dentist by the time their first tooth appears or by their first birthday; this helps to prevent tooth decay and other oral diseases. “Decay is the single most common chronic childhood dental disease—and it’s completely preventable,” Granger said. [Source: Tricare News Release 2 Jun 07 ++]
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SSA COLA 2008: The annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2008 may be one of the lowest in the history of the program. This gloomy outlook is from the 2007 Social Security Trustees report dted 23 APR07 that recently forecast the COLA in 2008 would be just 1.4%. For a senior with an average monthly benefit of $1044 in 2007 that's boost of just $14.60 per month next year. The increase in Medicare Part B premiums, however, could take a substantial chunk, if not all of that. But government experts seem unable to say just how much Part B premiums will be in 2008. Part B premiums pose such a problem, that Congress was told the estimates supplied in the 2007 Medicare Trustees report are substantially understated. Under more realistic alternate projections based on pending legislative changes, Medicare actuaries say that monthly Part B premiums will increase at least $7.90, from $93.50 to about $101.40 in 2008 for seniors with incomes under $80,000. Actual inflation and legislation changes that Congress makes prior to the announcement of the 2008 COLA and Part B premium later in the fall will affect the final amounts.

To help seniors better keep pace with rising costs, two bills, both called "The Consumer Price Index For Elderly Consumers Act," have recently been introduced. Representative Charles Gonzalez (D-TX-20) introduced H.R.1953 with Representative Robert Wexler (D-FL-19) as an original co-sponsor. In addition Representative Peter DeFazio (D-OR-04) introduced H.R. 2032. Both bills would tie Social Security COLA increases to the CPI for Elderly Consumers (CPI-E) that tracks the spending patterns of older Americans. By doing so, seniors would see much needed relief in their monthly checks. For example, a senior who retired with an average benefit of $460 in 1984 would have received an additional $10,289 in benefits over the past 23 years had the government used the CPI-E to calculate the COLA. Although the difference in COLAs is modest at first, the effect is cumulative and grows over time. Today the senior who retired in 1984 with a benefit of $460 receives about $910 per month. Had the government used the CPI-E however, that person would receive a monthly check that's $97 higher. [Source: TSCL Newsletter Jun 07 ++]
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RESERVE E-MAIL SYSTEM: The Navy Reserve has brought a new e-mail system online that organizers hope will make it easier to communicate with reservists in the fleet. Lt. Adam Bashaw, spokesman for the Navy Reserve, said the new system allows reservists or anyone else with an interest in the workings of the Navy Reserve to access daily messages, media stories about the Navy Reserve or read other items of interest. Subscribers can also opt out of any category that does not interest them (something that the current Navy Reserve e-mail system does not allow) and can end their subscription whenever they wish. The system became operational 22 Jun 07. Navy Reserve officials hope that as many as 20,000 people will sign up, Bashaw said. An older Navy Reserve e-mail system has about 8,000 subscribers. Such a system is especially important for reservists because many are deployed around the world, and many of those are not in daily contact with their commands, he said. The new system should improve such communications during emergencies since it also has an emergency distribution list, which enables Navy Reserve officials to quickly reach reservists. Text messaging was often the most effective way for the Navy Reserve Forces Command to communicate with its sailors in 2005 after Hurricane Katrina hit the New Orleans area, where the command is based. Subscription to the e-mail system is voluntary, but the Navy Reserve wants as many members as it can get to sign up. People interested in subscribing should visit https://listserv.navyreserve.navy.mil. [Source: NavyTimes Chris Amos article 27 Jun 07 ++]
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RESERVE RETIREMENT AGE UPDATE 11: A Senate proposal to provide early reserve retirement benefits is mostly window dressing, according to a report by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO). The plan approved by the Senate Armed Services Committee as part of its version of the 2008 defense authorization bill would allow reservists to earn retired pay earlier that age 60, when payments now start, for serving on active duty. Specifically, the plan would allow reservists who are called to active duty for at least 90 days to receive their retired pay three months earlier for every three months of service. Only time served after the bill becomes law would count. In a report released 24 JUN, the CBO estimated the provision would have “an insignificant effect” on the defense budget, costing as little as $35 million over the next five years. The report said, “Relatively few reservists would be able to take advantage of this provision in the near future. As most reservists stop active participation in the reserves well before their 60th birthday, few reservists nearing retirement over the next decade will have served on active duty during that decade.” Despite the small impact, the provision — whose chief sponsor is Sen. Saxby Chambliss (R-GA) has the backing of the Military Coalition, an umbrella group of more than 30 military-related organizations. Michael Cline of the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS) said, “It starts something. We are hoping for an amendment on the Senate floor that would, at least, make the benefit retroactive to cover service since Sept. 11, 2001.” Senator Chambliss may be trying, but what he has done has not made most associations very happy,” said one military association executive, who asked to not be identified. “Right now, this bill says to the 600,000 or so National Guard and reserve members called up since 9/11 that their service doesn’t count.” Senator Chambliss is also the author of S.0648, The National Guard and Reserve Moderniza!
tion Act
. That bill introduced 15 FEB 07 has only gained 12 cosponsors in the Senate which further supports the concept of the issue being window dressing. [Source: NavyTimes Rick Maze article 27 Jun 07 ++]
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VA CATEGORY 8 CARE UPDATE 03: U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-HI), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, announced 27 JUN the Committee’s passage of a key provision of S. 1233, the Traumatic Brain Injury and Other Health Programs Enhancement Act of 2007, that would allow Priority 8 veterans back into the VA health care system. The legislation would not modify the enrollment management provisions contained in the 1996 law that opened the VA system up to all veterans, but would merely permit the enrollment of Priority 8 veterans during Fiscal Year 2008 by rescinding the VA regulation that originally banned them. Priority 8 veterans are middle-income veterans with no service-connected disabilities. For VA’s state-by-state geographical means test thresholds that determine Priority 8 status, go to: http://www.va.gov/healtheligibility/Lib ... hresholds/

Chairman Akaka said, “The prohibition on Priority 8 veterans severely affects veterans in states like Hawaii, where the cost of living is one of this country’s highest. On average, a veteran making only $36,400 a year in Hawaii has been cut out of the VA system. This is an especially unjust policy when our Nation is at war…It has long been the position of my Democratic colleagues and I that veterans should have access to VA health care services. According to VA’s own estimates, as many as 1.5 million veterans have been denied care since enrollment was closed in 2003. We have fought hard to see that these veterans who have served their country honorably get the care they deserve …In fact, many of these veterans will bring their own private insurance with them, and will continue to pay copayments for their care. They can essentially contribute to the VA health care system as a whole.” S. 1233 will now move to the full Senate for consideration. [Source: VA Press Release 27 Jun 07 ++]
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CHANGING MILITARY RECORDS: If you feel there is an error or an injustice in your military personnel records you can apply to your service's Board for the Correction of Military Records whether you are active duty, separated, or retired,. Any person with military records, or his or her heirs or legal representative, may apply to the appropriate service's Board. The Army, Air Force, and Coast Guard have separate boards. The Navy operates the Board for both Navy personnel and members of the United States Marine Corps. Title 10, United States Code, Section 1552, is the law governing correction of military records. This statute authorizes the Secretary of the service concerned to correct any military record when "necessary to correct an error or injustice." The purpose of this statute was to relieve the Congress from consideration of private bills to correct errors or injustices in military records. The statute provides for the service secretaries to act through a board of appointed civilians in considering applications for correction of military records. Implementing regulations for each service are:
- AFI 36-2603, Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records, implements the statute within the Air Force.
- Army Regulation 15-185 implements the statute within the Army.
- The Code of Federal Regulations; Title 33, Part 52;2. implements the statute within the Coast Guard.
- The Navy and Marine Corps implements the statute through The Navy, Code of Federal Regulations; Title 32, Part 723.

You should exhaust other administrative remedies before appealing to your service's board. For example, you should first submit a performance report appeal to the appropriate appeal agency before appealing to your service's military records correction board.. An appeal requesting upgrade of discharge should normally be submitted to the service's Discharge Review Board under Department of Defense Directive (DoDD) 1332.28, Discharge Review Board (DRB) Procedures and Standards. The board will return your application if you have not first sought relief through the appropriate administrative process. You should submit your request within 3 years after you discover, or reasonably could have discovered, the error or injustice. The boards review the merits of untimely applications. If found to be meritorious, the timeliness is waived in the interest of justice. You should not assume, however, that a waiver will be granted. [Source: About.com: US Military Rod Powers article 25 Jun 07 ++]
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CHANGING MILITARY RECORDS UPDATE 01: To apply for a change to your military records use a DD Form 149, “Application for Correction of Military Record” Section 1552 for submission to your service’s Board for the Correction of Military Records. You should complete the form very carefully by typing or printing the requested information. Attach copies of statements or records that are relevant to your case. Make sure you sign item 16 of the form. Mail the completed form to the appropriate address on the back side of the form. The Board will correct your military records only if you can prove that you are the victim of error or injustice. You do this by providing evidence, such as signed statements from you and other witnesses or copies of records that support your case. It is not enough to provide the names of witnesses. The Board will not contact your witnesses to obtain statements. You should contact your witnesses to get their signed statements with your request. Your own statement is important. Begin in item 9 of the DD Form 149 and continue in item 17, if necessary. You may also put your statement on plain paper and attach it to the form. Limit your statement to not more than 25 pages. Explain what happened and why it is an error or injustice in simple, direct terms.

Normally, the best evidence is statements from persons who have direct knowledge or involvement. For example, statements from persons in your rating chain if you are contesting a performance report. Or a statement from the person who counseled you if you are alleging that person miscounseled you. Character references from community leaders and others who know you are helpful if you are requesting clemency based on post-service activities and accomplishments. This is only a general rule, however. You must decide what evidence will best support your case. It may take you some time to gather statements and records to support your request. You may wish to delay submission of your application until information gathering is complete. You should, however, submit your request within the 3-year time limit.

With few exceptions, all personnel records generated by the military may be corrected by the Board. The Board cannot, however, change the verdict of a courts-martial imposed after 4 MAY 50. In these cases, the Board’s authority is limited to changing the sentence received on the basis of clemency. The Board will mail you a copy of the applicable service regulation at your request. Most applicants represent themselves. If your request is complex, you may want someone to represent you: Many veteran service organizations have staff members who will represent you in applying to the Board. You can obtain a list of these organizations by writing to the Board (see addresses on reverse side of DD Form 149). You may also hire a lawyer to represent you at your own expense. You should name your representative on DD Form 149, item 7. The Executive Director of the Board must approve any representative other than a veteran service organization staff member or a lawyer.

If you name a representative, the Board will normally deal with your representative rather than directly with you. Advice and guidance are available from many sources. Military Personnel specialists can advise you on personnel issues. Veteran service organizations will advise you even though you decide to represent yourself. You may discuss your case with a Board staff member, or you may write to the Board, and a staff member will respond to your questions. You may request a personal appearance before the Board by checking the appropriate box on DD Form 149, item 6. The Board will decide whether a personal appearance is necessary to decide your case. Travel expenses are your responsibility. The Board grants very few personal appearances, so you should try to fully present your case in writing. If your request for a personal appearance is granted, the Board will provide you with the necessary details.

Upon receipt of your application by the Board one or more offices within your military service (JAG, hospital, personnel, etc.) will prepare an advisory opinion on your case. The advisory opinion will be sent to with your case file. If the advisory opinion recommends denial of your request, the Board will send it to you for comment. Remember that the advisory opinion is only a recommendation. The Board will make the decision on your case. The Board will ask for your comments on the advisory opinion within 30 days. You may request an additional 30 days if you need it. Reasonable requests are normally granted. It may be unnecessary for you to comment on the advisory opinion. If you have nothing further to say, don’t bother to respond. Failure to comment on an advisory opinion does not mean you agree. Nor will it prevent a full and fair consideration of your application. [Source: About.com: US Military Rod Powers article 25 Jun 07 ++]
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CHANGING MILITARY RECORDS UPDATE 02: Each Service Secretary appoints high-level civilian employees who work for the military service concerned to serve on the Board for the Correction of Military Records. Service is normally an additional duty for those appointed. Usually about 47 people serve on the Board. Members are randomly assigned to three-member panels for consideration of cases. Cases are randomly assigned to panels. Board staff members research issues and provide technical advice to the panel members. They do not take sides or recommend a decision to the panel. Panel members receive a copy of the case for study before they meet. They normally discuss your case in closed session before voting. Their decision is based on the evidence in the case file. The majority rules, but a dissenting member may submit a minority opinion for consideration by the Service Secretary or his/her designee. Following the vote on your case, the panel Chairperson signs a record of proceedings. The record of proceedings will explain the reasons for the decision on your case. The Service Secretary concerned has the final authority to accept or reject a recommendation of the Board. In most cases, it is accepted. When the BOC completes your case, the decision is mailed to you. If relief is granted, your records will be corrected and finance personnel will review your case to see if you are due any monetary benefits. The Board is the highest level of administrative appeal and provides the final military decision. If your case is denied, your next step is to request reconsideration or file a suit in the court system. If you request reconsideration the Board will reconsider your case only if you provide newly discovered relevant evidence that was not reasonably available when you filed your original application. The evidence may pertain to the timeliness of your application or to its merits. You should submit your request for reconsideration within a reasonable time after you discover the new evidence. Re-argument of the sa!
me evide
nce will not get your case reconsidered. [Source: About.com: US Military Rod Powers article 25 Jun 07 ++]
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COMMUNICATING WITH CONGRESS UPDATE 02: Calling your congressional representative in Washington D.C. is easier than you think. Congress and the AMA have provided the following no charge numbers for constituents to talk to their elected officials offices located in the Capital Building:

1-866-272-6622 Capital Operator Direct
1-800-833-6354 AMA Grass Roots Hotline - follow prompts
1-800-828-0498 Capital Operator Direct
1-800-833-6354 AMA Grass Roots Hotline – follow prompts
1-866-340-9281 Capital Operator Direct
1-866-220-0044 Capital Operator Direct

1. When the capitol operator answers, tell her which Senate or House office you want.
2. When the office answers, tell the staffer that you are a constituent and that you want your Senator/Representative to vote for or against whichever bill you are concerned about or what other issue you have. For a listing of all bills refer to http://thomas.loc.gov.
3. Provide additional information requested by the staffer
4. Be polite and courteous, remember the staffer is simply the "messenger".
[Source: MRGRG Harry Riley msg 25 Jun 07 ++]
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PTSD UPDATE 15: Veterans returning from combat zones in Afghanistan and Iraq can soon opt to take part in a new post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatment program at the Veterans Home of California at Yountville. A $5.6 million private grant provided by will cover the fundamental costs of the program — an enterprise of San Francisco’s Tides Center supervised by the California Department of Veterans Affairs — and keep it up and running for three years, according to a press release from the California Department of Veterans Affairs. Called “The Pathway Home,” the program will counsel and treat veterans facing a range of mental health issues including post-traumatic stress disorder. The program will offer assistance from a host of professionals, including PTSD counselors, doctors, nurses, family therapists, physical therapists and dietitians. Steve Schilling, special representative for the Vets Home, said the program will cost approximately $1.25 million annually, adding that Fred Gusman of the Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System will direct the enterprise. The program, to be launched in AUG 07, will be held at Madison Hall on Vets Home grounds and can accommodate up to 40 people at a time. Marcella McCormack, administrator of the Vets Home, said veterans will reside at the Vets Home for treatment from 30 to 120 days and then return to their communities. After the completion of treatment, she said, veterans will keep in close contact with program counselors. The Veterans Home of California located at 180 California Drive can be contacted by mail or phone at: P.O. Box 1200, Yountville, California 94599 Tel: (707) 944-4541 Fax: (707) 944-4542. [Source: Napa Valley Register Natalie Hoffman article 21 Jun 07 ++]
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AO COMPENSATION [NON-VIETNAM] UPDATE 03: As required by law, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hereby gives notice that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, under authority of the Veterans Education and Benefits Expansion Act of 2001, Public Law 107-103, Section 201(d), has determined that a presumption of service connection is not warranted (i.e. for conflicts other than Vietnam) based on exposure to herbicides used in the Republic of Vietnam during the Vietnam Era for the following health outcomes: Hepatobiliary cancers; oral, nasal, and pharyngeal cancer; bone and joint cancer; skin cancers (melanoma, basal, and squamous cell); breast cancer; female reproductive cancer (cervix, uterus, and ovary); testicular cancer; urinary bladder cancer; renal cancer; leukemia (other than chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)); abnormal sperm characteristics and infertility; spontaneous abortion; neonatal or infant death and stillbirth in offspring of exposed individuals; low birth weight in offspring of exposed individuals; neurobehavioral disorders (cognitive and neuropsychiatric); movement disorders including Parkinson’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS); chronic peripheral nervous system disorders; respiratory disorders; gastrointestinal, metabolic, and digestive disorders (changes in liver enzymes, lipid abnormalities, ulcers); immune system disorders (immune suppression, autoimmunity); circulatory disorders; amyloid light-chain (AL) amyloidosis; endometriosis; effects on thyroid homeostasis; gastrointestinal tumors (esophagus, stomach, pancreas, colon, rectum; brain tumors; and any other condition for which the Secretary has not specifically determined a presumption of service connection is warranted.

The Secretary’s determinations regarding individual diseases are based on all available evidence in a 2004 report of the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) and prior NAS reports. This notice generally states specific information only with respect to significant additional studies that were first reviewed by NAS in its 2004 report. Information regarding additional relevant studies is stated in VA’s prior notices following earlier NAS reports, are not repeated here. NAS reviewed scientific and medical articles published since the publication of its first report as an integral part of the process that resulted in “Veterans and Agent Orange: Update 2004.” The comprehensive review and evaluation of the available literature that NAS conducted in conjunction with its report has permitted VA to identify all conditions for which the current body of knowledge supports a finding of an association with herbicide exposure. Accordingly, the Secretary has determined that there is no positive association between exposure to herbicides and any other condition for which he has not specifically determined that a presumption of service connection is warranted. For further information contact: Rhonda F. Ford, Consultant, Regulations Staff, Compensation and Pension Service, Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20420, (202) 273-7210. [Source: Gordon H. Mansfield, Deputy Secretary of VA notice 5 Jun 07 ++]
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NATO AIR FORCE MEDALS: Air Force military members and civilians who have served 30 consecutive or accumulated days in any of four NATO operations may be eligible for a NATO medal. The missions are Operation Eagle Assist in the United States between 12 OCT 01, and 16 MAY 02; Operation Active Endeavor in the Mediterranean Sea that began 26 OCT 01; the International Security Force (ISAF) mission in the Balkans, which began 1 JAN 03, including Bosnia-Herzegovina, the former Republic of Yugoslavia (including Kosovo), Croatia, Macedonia and Albania; and the ISAF mission in Afghanistan which began 1 JUN 03. The duty must be listed on a Combined Joint Statement of Requirements, and the individual must have a source document such as a NATO certificate, according to the Air Force Personnel Center. The 30-day requirement will be waived for individuals who were wounded or injured during the operation and had to be evacuated. [Source: Armed Forces News 22 Jun 07 ++]
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VA CATEGORY 8 CARE UPDATE 02: A new study has found about 1.8 million U.S. veterans under age 65 lack even basic health insurance or access to care at Veterans Affairs hospitals. The ranks of uninsured veterans have increased by 290,000 since 2000, said Stephanie J. Woolhandler, the Harvard Medical School professor who presented her findings yesterday before the House Committee on Veterans Affairs. About 12.7% of non-elderly veterans—or one in eight—lacked health coverage in 2004, the most recent year for which figures are available, she said, up from 9.9% in 2000. Veterans 65 and older are eligible for Medicare. About 45 million Americans, or 15% of the population, were uninsured in 2005, the Census Bureau reports. Woolhandler’s findings are based on data from two national surveys—the Current Population Survey administered by the Census Bureau and the National Health Interview Survey administered by the Department of Health and Human Services. Veterans who said they had neither health insurance nor veterans or military health care were counted as uninsured.

Woolhandler is a well-known advocate of guaranteeing access to health care for all Americans through a government-run national health insurance program. Republican lawmakers seized on that association to question whether she was trying to advance that goal with her study. Woolhandler said the data are sound. She has firsthand experience with the issue as well, she said, because as a physician she has seen uninsured veterans with untreated high blood pressure, diabetes and other conditions. The focus of the hearing was whether to open VA hospitals’ doors to so-called Priority 8 veterans, who have no service-connected disabilities and whose earnings generally are above 80% of the median income where they live. Doing so would add significantly to VA’s caseload and costs—estimates range from $366 million to $3.3 billion annually—and some veterans groups and lawmakers are concerned that it would make it harder for veterans with serious service-related health problems to get timely care. Only about half of the 1.8 million uninsured veterans are classified Priority 8, Woolhandler said. The rest may technically be eligible for some VA care but live too far from its facilities for it to be a real option, she said.

Rep. Steve Buyer (R- IN), the committee’s ranking Republican, said, “Veterans Affairs should focus on its core constituent (i.e. veterans with service-related health problems, the indigent and those with catastrophic disabilities). Some say the government is obliged to provide essentially free health care for life to anyone who served even a year or two. I intend to protect the core constituency first.” But Rep. Bob Filner (D-CA.), the committee’s chairman, said taking care of veterans is a continuing cost of war. “All veterans should have access to ‘their’ health-care system,” he said. “This is rationing health care to veterans, those who have served our nation. And I think it’s unacceptable for a nation of our wealth and our ability.” [Source: Washington Post Christopher Lee article 21 Jun 07 ++]
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[boardman]

Page 2

COMPUTER SECURITY: Spyware, which is a software program that installs itself (without your knowledge) on your computer. After it’s installed, the software collects information about you, and when you’re online it sends the information to the spyware program’s owner. Most spyware fits into one of two categories: Surveillance or Advertising. Surveillance spyware scans documents on your computer and can capture your keystrokes as you type. It can spy on forms you’re filling out on a Web site (such as your login password or your credit card number) and the text you enter in a chat window. Government and detective agencies have been known to use this type of software, as have jealous spouses. Advertising spyware is software that is installed when you’re installing other software (usually software you download from the Internet) or that is installed in the background while you’re visiting a Web site. It’s common for advertising spyware to be included (without your being told) when you install software that’s advertised as “No charge, if you don’t mind seeing advertisements when you use it.”
One of the most pervasive distributors of spyware is software you download to take advantage of “peer to peer” file exchanges (for music and video). Advertising spyware logs information about your computer and about you. The information includes passwords, your Web browsing habits, your online buying habits, and so on.cBoth types of spyware can also install viruses and worms on your computer. Many of them change your browser settings (such as your home page), and your efforts to correct the changes are temporary; the spyware changes them again. One of the annoying features of spyware is its connection to pop-up ads. Using the information it has collected about you, the spyware initiates pop-up ads whenever you connect to a Web site. The spyware software producer receives income whenever you respond to one of these pop-up ads, so the theory is “the more the better.” After a while, using the Internet becomes almost impossible because of the barrage of pop-ups. Regardless of your Internet Explorer controls for your children, the pop-ups often contain pornography.

Obviously, the best way to avoid spywar intrusion is not to install software from the internet or use peer to peer file exchanges. If it should be inadvertently installed in your computer the only way to remove it is to use software designed for that purpose. The following programs are well regarded by computer professionals to accomplish this:

- Spybot S&D (for Search & Destroy) http://www.safer-networking.org/en/download/. (No charge but donations requested)
- Ad-Aware from Lavasoft http://www.lavasoftusa.com. (No charge to $40 dependent on program desired)
- Spysweeper http://www.spam-blockers.com/spy-sweeper.html. ($30 to $40 dependent on program desired)
- Windows Defender http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/deta ... laylang=en (will not support WIN2000). No charge.
[Source: MRGRG Don Harribine msg 20 Jun 07 ++]
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USFSPA LAWSUIT UPDATE 13: Twenty-six years after Congress accepted its invitation in the case of McCarty v. McCarty to spell out divorce courts’ limits for dividing veterans’ retired pay, the Supreme Court declined on 18 JUN 07, to review a challenge from divorced veterans that the resulting statute entitled the Uniform Services Former Spouses Protection Act (USFSPA) is unconstitutional. Tired of unsuccessful legislative efforts against the statute a group of divorced veterans formed the USFSPA Litigation Support Group (ULSG) to challenge the law in court. Forty-eight divorced veterans (both men and women) affected by the law who served in the military’s major branches signed onto the lawsuit filed in 2004 in the U.S. District Court in Alexandria VA, under the title Adkins, et al. v.Rumsfeld, which later was renamed Adkins v.Gates, to reflect the replacement of the Secretary of Defense. The lawsuit worked its way from the federal trial court to the U.S. Court of Appeals in Richmond, with both courts refusing to grant relief against the USFSPA but also acknowledging that the law is not airtight against attacks by future litigants. The divorced veterans then petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to review the USFSPA’s constitutionality. On 18 JUN, the Supreme Court declined the review petition without comment.

The USFSPA, enacted in 1982, does not give spouses a right to a specific amount of money in a divorce settlement. The decision whether to award part of retirement pay, and the amount, is up to state courts, and the amounts vary widely. Most pensions, including those of police officers and federal employees, and other occupations, are subject to division in divorce cases. A number of changes to the law have been made in the favor of former spouses, and service members need some additional protections. The ULSG contends that Congress may have meant well in enacting the USFSPA, but that the law has resulted in harsh consequences to divorced veterans, many of them unanticipated and unintended. In this litigation, the divorced veterans asserted that among the law’s failings is that it does not even exempt veterans who joined the military before the law was ever passed. The litigants assert that this amounts to an unconstitutionally retroactive application of the law and unconstitutional taking of property, seeing that the law was passed only after the Supreme Court said that veterans’ retirement pay could not be divided in divorce court.

After the divorced veterans petitioned the Supreme Court to review USFSPA’s constitutionality, the GI-Janes and American Retirees Association veterans groups filed friend of the court briefs supporting the veterans’ petition. Signing onto the American Retirees Association’s brief were the Air Force Sergeants Association, the Fleet Reserve Association, the National Association for Uniformed Services, and the Retired Enlisted Association. The divorced veterans’ lead attorney, Jonathan L. Katz said: “The Supreme Court’s decision not to review the case does not reflect the Court’s view on the statute’s Constitutionality or flaws. The Court, having just nine justices and a mountain of annual review petitions, accepts only one to two percent of petitions for review. We look forward to future court challenges against this unjust law.” ULSG officer Jack Crutchfield said: “The USFSPA is unconstitutional, and this court challenge needed to be brought. Our legal team brought to light the serious flaws in this law. Thousands of divorced men and women who proudly served their country are victims of this unjust law and feel its profound financial harm daily; the law needs to be stricken.”

The Supreme Court judgment mirrors a long line of previous decisions that have upheld Congress' right to legislate changes in military benefits. In the past, various groups have sued the government over laws that changed military retired pay adjustment methodology, deducted VA disability compensation from military retired pay, reduced Survivor Benefit Plan annuities, and charged military retirees fees for medical care. In each of those cases, the Supreme Court ultimately ruled (or refused to return a lower court ruling) that Congress was within its authority to legislate the changes, and that if there are inequities in the laws, the way to resolve those inequities is through further legislative action. For further information, contact: ULSG, LLC PO Box 270337 Tampa, FL 33688-0337 email: members@ulsg.org or http://www.ulsg.org. [Source: USFSPA Litigation Support Group News Release 20 Feb 07 ++]
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VA SPINAL CORD INJURY SERVICES: In a ground-breaking ceremony 19 JUN for a new facility for spinal cord injuries, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Jim Nicholson committed the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to expand programs and open new facilities for seriously disabled veterans with spinal cord injuries. The new center at the Milwaukee VA Medical Center is a $32.5 million building and will open by 2010 to replace an existing converted ward in the hospital. It comes on the heels of another ground-breaking by Nicholson just a month ago for a new $20 million spinal cord injury center attached to the VA medical center in Minneapolis .VA is a leader in spinal cord injury health care research and rehabilitation, providing a coordinated lifelong continuum of services for eligible veterans with spinal cord injuries of all ages. VA's expertise in this area ranges from emergency care and surgical stabilization to rehabilitation, preventive care, and long-term care. The department's investment in spinal cord injury research is yielding practical medical applications such as reducing pressure ulcers and increasing the use of annual influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations. VA research on spinal cord injuries is exploring new frontiers such as nerve regeneration, activity-based therapies that target recovery of standing and walking skills and developing prosthetics that have a direct connection to the nervous system.

Last year, VA spent nearly $19 million on 186 research projects relating to central nervous system injury and associated disorders. Responding to the needs of the latest generation of combat veterans, VA has developed a network of polytrauma rehabilitation centers that bring together specialists in spinal cord injury and other experts into multidisciplinary teams that aid injured troops with other severe disabilities such as traumatic brain injury, amputation, blindness, and complex orthopedic injuries, auditory disorders and mental health concerns. About 80% of veterans with spinal cord injuries and disorders are at least 50 years of age. However, many of the approximately 450 newly injured veterans and active-duty members who received rehabilitation at VA’s spinal cord injury centers last year are young adults. Treatment and technology have improved so that veterans with spinal cord injuries have increasingly longer life expectancies. Maintaining health, preventive medicine and early treatment of new conditions are important parts of VA’s lifelong care. Last year, VA provided a full range of care to nearly 26,000 veterans with spinal cord injuries and diseases. VA's specialized services are delivered through 135 primary care teams or support clinics for spinal cord injuries at VA medical centers and through 23 regional spinal cord injury centers. [Source: VA Press Release 19 Jun 07 ++]
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OVERSEAS NSO DOCUMENT REQUEST: A person outside the Philippines can make a request by letter are online at https://www.ecensus.com.ph/Secure/frmIndex.asp to the National Statistics Office [NSO] for a certified copy of any document. The fee for forwarding documents is $20 per document in accordance with payment options noted on the website. Credit card payment on line is possible. There is no cancellation or refund policy. The e-Census website also contains a number of frequently asked questions that cover most situations. Additional questions can be answered by the Civil Registry Operations Division at L.Hufana@mail.census.gov.ph. In the initial letter or online request the following information must be supplied to allow NSO to locate the document:

Birth: Complete name of the child (first, middle, last), Complete name of the father, Complete maiden name of the mother, Date of birth (month, day, year), Place of birth (city/municipality, province), Whether or not registered late, If registered late, state the year when it was registered, Complete name and address of the requesting party, Relationship to the child, Number of copies needed, and Purpose of the certification.

Death: Complete name of the deceased person, Date of death, Place of death, Complete name and address of the requesting party, Number of copies needed, and for what purpose the certification shall be used

Marriage: Complete name of the husband, Complete name of the wife, Date and place of marriage, Complete name and address of the requesting party, Number of copies needed, and Purpose for the certification

Adoption:
1. Information about the child prior to adoption to include: Complete name of the child, Complete name of the father, Complete maiden name of the mother, Date and place of birth,
2. Information after adoption to include: Amended name of the child, Complete name of the adopting father, his occupation, religion and age at the time of adoption, Complete name of the adopting mother, her occupation, religion, and age at the time of adoption, Date when adoption decree was issued, Date when adoption decree became final and executory, Name of the court and the judge that issued the decree, Complete name and address of the requesting party, Number of copies needed, and Purpose for the certification

Legitimation: Complete name of the child, father, and mother, Date and place of birth, Date and place of marriage of parents, Date when the affidavit of legitimation was executed, Date when the affidavit of legitimation was registered, Complete name and address of the requesting party, Number of copies needed and Purpose for the certification

Dissolution of Marriage: Complete name of the husband, Complete maiden name of the wife, Date of marriage, Place of marriage,
Name of the court and the judge that issued the decree dissolving the marriage or declaring marriage void,
Address of the court, Date when the decision was issued, Date when the decision became final and executory, Date when the decision was recorded in the civil register, Complete name and address of the requesting party, and Purpose for the certification

No Record of Marriage: Complete name of the person, Complete name of the father, Complete maiden name of the mother, Date of birth, Place of birth, Complete name and address of the requesting party, Number or copies needed, and Purpose for the certification

Others: For certifications other than those described in this page, please specify the nature or contents of the certification.

Send your letter request to Republic of the Philippines, Office of the Civil Registrar General, National Statistics Office, PO Box 779 Manila Philippines or EDSA corner Times St., West Triangle, Quezon City 1104. Requests made through conventional postal service system are processed upon the receipt of payment. Online request should be submitted via https://www.ecensus.com.ph/Secure/frmIndex.asp. [Source: Philippine NSO www.census.gov.ph Jun 07 ++]
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TAPS: Each year, hundreds of American families face the tragedy of the death of a loved one serving in the Armed Forces. The families left behind include loving parents, siblings and young spouses and school age children. In many cases, these families must move immediately away from their friends and support systems and rebuild a life that was once devoted to military service but is now focused on just surviving their traumatic loss. These families can turn to TAPS for the support that they deserve when they have, in the words of Abraham Lincoln, “laid so costly a sacrifice on the altar of freedom” The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, Inc., is a one of a kind non-profit Veteran Service Organization offering hope, healing, comfort and care to thousands of American armed forces families facing the death of a loved one each year. Services available are: counseling referral, crisis information, caseworker assistance, and online resources. TAPS receives no government funding. Through the DoD and VA, all families faced with a death of one serving in the Armed Forces should be receiving information about TAPS and other military survivor programs. For more info refet to http://www.taps.org or write/call the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, Inc. (TAPS) National Headquarters, 910 17th Street, NW Suite 800, Washington, DC 20006 Tel: (202) 588- 8277. For general tnfo send an email to info@taps.org. [Source: Military Report 28 May 07 ++]
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SELECTIVE SERVICE SYSTEM (DRAFT) UPDATE 04: Contrary to popular belief, “only sons”, “the last son to carry the family name”, and “sole surviving sons” must register for the draft, they can be drafted, and they can serve in combat. However, they may be entitled to a peacetime deferment if there is a military death in the immediate family. Provisions regarding the survivors of veterans were written into Selective Service law after World War II. Details have varied over the years, but the basic premise remains the same; where a family member has been lost as a result of military service, the remaining family members should be protected insofar as possible. It is important to keep in mind that the provisions are directly related to service-connected deaths. The mere fact that a man is the only child or only son does not qualify him for consideration - he must be the survivor of one who died as a result of military service.

The present law provides a peacetime exemption for anyone whose parent or sibling was killed in action, died in line of duty, or died later as a result of disease or injury incurred in line of duty while serving in the armed forces of the United States. Also included are those whose parent or sibling is in a captured or missing status as a result of service in the armed forces during any period of time. This is known as the “surviving son or brother” provision. A man does not have to be the only surviving son in order to qualify; if there are four sons in a family and one dies in the line of duty, the remaining three would qualify for surviving son or brother status under the present law. The surviving son or brother provision is applicable only in peacetime. It does not apply in time of war or national emergency declared by the Congress.

The original law, passed in 1948, exempted the sole surviving son of a family where one or more sons or daughters died as a result of military service. No restriction existed at that time to limit the exemption to peacetime. The provision was intended to protect families which had lost a member in World War II.
In 1964, recognizing that sons of World War II veterans were reaching draft age, Congress changed the law to include the sole surviving son of a family where the father, or one or more sons or daughters, died as a result of military service. At this time the peacetime-only restriction was also added to the law. A further change was made in 1971, expanding the exemption to any son, not necessarily the sole surviving son, of a family where the father, brother or sister died as a result of military service. This provision was recently expanded to include mothers. In addition to peace-time draft deferment, the Department of Defense authorizes discharges for any son or daughter in a family in which the father or mother or one or more sons or daughters:
- Have been killed in action or have died when serving in the U.S. Armed Forces from wounds, accident, or disease.
- Are in a captured or missing-in-action status.
- Have a permanent 100% Service-related disability (including 100% mental disability), as determined by the Veterans’ Administration or one of the Military Services, and are not gainfully employed because of the disability.

Under the provisions of DOD Directive 1315.15, this is a voluntary separation procedure which must be initiated by the service member. It does not apply during times of War or National Emergency declared by Congress. It also does not apply to commissioned officers or warrant officers unless they were involuntarily drafted into the Armed Forces (as there is currently no draft going on, that means commissioned officers and warrant officers cannot be released from service under this provision). Additionally, service members who enlist, reenlist, or voluntarily extends his or her active duty period after having been notified of the family casualty on which the surviving status is based shall be considered as having waived his or her rights for separation as a surviving son or daughter. A member who has waived his or her right to a separation as a surviving son or daughter may request reinstatement of that status at any time. However, a request for reinstatement shall not be granted automatically, but shall be considered on the merits of the individual case. [Source: About.com: U.S. Military Rod Powers article 15 Jun 07 ++]
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VA HOMELESS VETS UPDATE 04: A recently completed Congressional Research Service (CRS) report on homeless veterans says the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have contributed to a sharp rise in the number of homeless military veterans. The report shows:
- Female veterans were as much as four times more likely to become homeless than non-veteran women.
- Male veterans nearly twice as likely to become homeless than non-veterans.
- The largest group of homeless vets comes from those who enlisted after Vietnam.
- Although experiences in combat and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder are contributing factors to homelessness, studies have found no unique association between combat-related PTSD and homelessness.
- Since Vietnam, most veterans do not normally become homeless within the first 10 years of separation. (Note: This is contradictory to a DEC 06 Iraq Veteran Project study prepared by the Swords to Plowshares veterans’ advocacy group which said that troops who’ve served in Iraq and Afghanistan are becoming homeless sooner than their predecessors - seeking housing services within months after returning from Iraq.)
- There are currently five federal programs specifically designed to assist homeless veterans, these programs will require about $270 million in 2007, and future costs are on the rise. (Note: This leaves many veterans’ advocates concerned that the current VA budget and infrastructure will not be able to respond to the needs of an ever-increasing number of homeless and at risk veterans in the coming years.)

According to the Iraq Veteran Project report, the VA has created a list of factors that can help prevent homelessness, including employment assistance, transition assistance, rehabilitation, medical care, commensurate employment, compensation award and work therapy. Congress is taking notice. In APR 07 Sen. Obama introduced legislation dubbed the “Homes for Heroes Act”, which would establish grant and voucher programs to encourage development of affordable housing targeted for veterans. In addition, Sen. Daniel Akaka (D-HI) has introduced a bill that would institute a program in which the VA and DoD would work together to identify returning members of the armed services who are at risk of homelessness. On the other side of the aisle, Sen. Larry Craig (R-ID), has said, “The number of homeless on any given night is too high and we are working hard on Capitol Hill to turn those numbers around.” In response to congressional pressure, the Pentagon recently partnered with several federal agencies to create an online portal called “Turbo TAP” designed to help veterans get the information, counseling, and access to the services they need to ensure a successful transition from military to civilian life. [Source: Military.com Terry Howell article 18 Jun 07 ++]
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VET CEMETERY FLORIDA UPDATE 06: On 15 JUN the U.S. House approved $27.8 million in federal funding to construct a national veterans cemetery in Sarasota County Florida. The funding is included in the Fiscal Year 2008 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act (H.R. 2642), which provides a necessary increase in federal funding to meet the needs of our nation’s military and honor our commitment to our veterans. The Sarasota National Veterans Cemetery is currently in the design phase. It will be located on 295 acres of land purchased in April by the Veterans Administration. Construction is planned for May 2008 with the first burials anticipated in OCT 08, with the entire first phase of the project expected to be complete in 2011. The 60 acre site will provide 25,700 casket and cremation burials. The entire property is expected to provide burial capacity beyond the year 2050. The cemetery funding in this bill will help ensure that the nearly 400,000 area veterans can be placed to rest close to home and with the honor and dignity the deserve. [Source: Rep. Vern Buchanan Press Release 20 Jun 07 ++]
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SBA VET ISSUES UPDATE 04: Congressman Vern Buchanan’s (R-FL-13) bill to help veterans make the transition from military life to the business world was approved unanimously 18 JUN by the U.S. House. The “SBA Veterans’ Programs Act of 2007” (H.R. 2366), introduced by Buchanan last month, requires the SBA to increase its outreach to veterans and authorizes federal funding for grants and services to help veterans start, manage, or grow a small business. The SBA veterans’ programs bill authorizes small business grants between $75,000 and $250,000 each, provides online counseling and distance learning for veterans and members of the Armed Forces, increases coordination among organizations that assist veterans, and creates a marketing campaign to promote awareness regarding SBA programs for veterans. The bill also requires the SBA to increase the number of Veterans Business Outreach Centers, which provide business training, counseling, technical assistance, and mentoring by at least four over the next two years and to establish a Women Veterans Business Training Resource Program to compile and disseminate information on resources available to women veterans for business training. Finally, the bill requires an independent study to identify gaps in the availability of outreach centers. Buchanan’s bill was cosponsored by 19 bipartisan Members of Congress, including House Small Business Committee Chairwoman Nydia Velazquez (D-NY) and Ranking Member Steve Chabot (R-OH). Buchanan is a member of the House Small Business Committee, and a member of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. The measure now goes to the Senate for consideration. [Source: Buchanan Press Release 19 Jun 07 ++]
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VA BUDGET 2008 UPDATE 06: The Senate Appropriations Subcommittee for Military Construction and VA Funding approved their version of the fiscal year 2008 funding bill 14 JUN. The legislation will provide more than $87.5 billion to fund the VA. This includes $44.4 billion for mandatory veterans’ benefits and a record $43 billion in discretionary spending which is $6.5 billion above last year’s funding level. Included in the bill:
- $3.6 billion for medical administration.
- $4.1 billion for medical facilities.
- $500 million for medical and prosthetic research.
- $29 billion for Medical Care, with money set aside for polytrauma care, mental health services, and specialized treatment for TBI and PTSD.
- $1.3 billion for the Veterans Benefits Administration to allow for the hiring of more than 500 new disability claims processors to tackle the backlog of compensation claims.
- $1 billion above the President’s request for minor construction and nonrecurring maintenance of VA hospitals and facilities to avoid the same type of deterioration as at Walter Reed.

The bill is before the full Senate Appropriations Committee, and if cleared there, would move to the full Senate for a vote. If approved, the Senate bill would then need to be matched up with the version moving through the House to resolve differences before presenting it to the President for his signature. The House version has similar funding levels. [Source: VFW WA Weekly 18 Jun 07 ++]
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VA PROJECT HERO: Project HERO is a demonstration project that is being piloted in selected Veterans Integrated Service Networks (VISNs) to maximize the care VA provides directly and better manage Fee care. The project has the potential to reduce VA contract costs while improving access, accountability, care coordination, patient satisfaction and clinical quality. The ultimate goal of Project HERO is to ensure all care delivered by VA - whether through VA providers or community partners - is of the same quality and consistency for all veterans. Under this program The Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) can give private HMOs and other health networks access to a multibillion-dollar market for veterans’ care that the companies hope, and veterans fear, could open a new era of outsourcing. The nation’s major veteran’s organizations have fought a fierce but behind-the-scenes battle since a pilot program began to take shape in FEB 06. At an industry day gathering, VA invited executives from dozens of private health networks to bid for contracts giving the government discounts in exchange for a potential bonanza. Some executives say they are aggressively pursuing that business and more.

Despite its flaws, the VA health care system is widely regarded as among the best in the nation. A nearly united front of veterans groups argues that the pilot project is a step toward privatizing work now done at VA hospitals and clinics. Nevertheless, the DVA expects to award five-year contracts next month that could put hundreds of thousands of procedures under HMOs. The contracts will cover four multistate DVA administrative regions that include the veterans’ haven of Florida, 11 other mostly rural states and portions of another 12. The project underscores wartime strains on the VA health care system despite huge hikes in the department’s budget since the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan began. Some in Congress have chafed at the spending and support alternatives. Veterans complain about long waits for appointments and other problems they want fixed internally. Private health providers see the VA’s shortcomings and growing patient load as a business opportunity. The VA spends an estimated $2 billion to $2.5 billion a year nationwide on care outside its hospitals and clinics. That is mostly in cases where the VA lacks equipment, is up against backlogs or does not have a presence in rural areas.

Project HERO, short for Healthcare Effectiveness through Resource Optimization, would allow spending on many outsourced procedures to rise by up to twice last year’s amounts. Veterans say that means the department plans to greatly expand its use of private care at the expense of equipment, staff and other needs inside the VA. VA officials in charge of the project declined several requests for interviews and to provide data supplied to private companies for use in bids due last month. Some companies clearly see a long-term opportunity that could be expanded nationally. Health care giant Humana Inc., for example, formed a new unit, Humana Veterans Healthcare Services, in FEB to pursue Project HERO and other potential outsourcing opportunities at the VA. The House and Senate appropriations committees in late 2005, required a program of this sort in a little-noticed paragraph of a report accompanying the fiscal 2006 spending bill. GOP lawmakers at the time were concerned about rapid increases in VA funding. The intent of the 2005 order was to better manage spending outside the VA system and achieve savings through contracts rather than simply paying fees. Veterans groups have advocated a program to accomplish that, but they say the VA has expanded this project far beyond better management of current outsourcing.

When the department released its initial proposal last summer, veterans groups were stunned. The plan would have allowed spending on procedures in the contracts to rise up to fivefold across the board and would have allowed the project to spill outside the four multistate regions designated as official demonstration zones. Veterans shelled the plan until the VA tabled it a month later. In January, the DVA issued a scaled-back proposal, which has since been amended several times but fails to satisfy veterans groups.. The VA asserts in available materials that Project HERO will remain limited to services the government system cannot provide. Veterans groups say the guts of the proposal suggest otherwise.
The House appropriations committee, which proposed this program, predicted it could save $400 million a year. People involved in the project, including corporate executives, said they have no sense of the savings or the ultimate government spending on private work because details of how Project HERO will be administered are unclear. “We see a potential for a lot of care going out to these contractors, swallowing up, getting their foot in the door and getting whatever they can,” said Joy Ilem, a lobbyist for Disabled American Veterans. For more info on Project HERO refer to http://www.va.gov/hac/hero. [Source: Sarasota Herald-Tribune Cory Reiss article 18 Jun 07 ++]
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VETERAN DISINTERMENT: Picking up and moving a deceased family member is something most people do not think about. The vast majority of families consider the final resting place to be final. The decision is made when a person’s desire to have his/her loved one nearby overcomes any desire to leave a grave undisturbed. Funeral and cemetery directors say the scenarios are complicated and endless. National veterans’ cemeteries charge nothing for any services they provide for disinterment. The disinterred get a new gravesite, a free headstone and are even entitled to another volunteer honor guard service when the new grave is sealed. However, the family is responsible for the arrangements and cost of the movement from one gravesite to another. The veteran cemetery personnel dig down to the casket. When they stop digging that is where a funeral home comes in. A funeral director has to be present while a vault company extracts either the casket or the vault it is encased in. The vault company loads it into a hearse or van or, if the entire vault is moved, onto a flatbed and drives it to the new resting place. It unloads it into the new grave and seals it, again under the eye of a funeral director. This can cost $2500 and up dependent on where and how far the new gravesite is located. The funeral director will normally take care of any permits required. Veterans Affairs does not keep track of how much it costs them to disinter, officials said. But it can be time-consuming, especially in sandy Florida where it can take up to six hours to unbury a casket if the soil does not hold tight. Sandra Beckley, who runs the new national cemetery in Georgia and the future director of the Florida Sarasota cemetery when it opens in the fall of 2008 said, “Whether it takes a couple of hours or a half-day to re-dig a grave, the agency considers it a service veterans are entitled to. Burial at a VA cemetery is a benefit for the veteran and his honorable service, and if the family wishes to do a disinterment, it is their!
right.”
[Source: Tampa Tribune Gretchen Parker article 17 Jun 07 ++]
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CREDIT CARD PENALTIES: Congress has held hearings twice this year to grill credit card executives on their fees and billing practices and the added heat on plastic providers may leave you with more cold cash. Following are some changes that have been implemented since those hearings:

- Citigroup has dropped the "universal default" penalty on all its cards. This clause allows card issuers to boost interest rates to as much as 35% if a cardholder is late paying any other, unrelated bill—such as a mortgage—even if the customer has never been late with a credit card payment. To see if your card carries a universal default penalty, contact your card issuer.
- Citigroup also announced it would cease its "any time for any reason" interest rate increases. An any time policy gives a card issuer carte blanche to boost interest rates without an explanation—even for customers who have met all payment and deadline terms. The company is reserving the right to raise rates and fees on existing accounts only if cardholders pay late, exceed the credit limit or if their payment check bounces.
- Chase Visa is switching its cards to daily average balance to calculate interest and abandoning two-cycle billing. The change will reduce finance charges for anyone who chooses not to pay off a new purchase in full.
[Source: AARP Bulletin Jun 07 ++]
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ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATE TRAINING PROGRAM: Returning military veterans can pursue a career in environmental restoration/conservation, receive a monthly stipend of $1,000, and use other education benefits such as their GI bill and Washington’s veteran tuition waivers, under a new program being co-sponsored by the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs. The ten-month program will be located at Renton Technical College and Green River Community College as part of the Veterans Conservation Corps (VCC), with classes beginning in SEP 07. The program will be a mix of classroom work and on the job training on projects in King County. The requirements for enrollment in the program include:
- A returning veteran from Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Noble Eagle.
- An interest in learning skills towards environmental restoration/conservation inclusive of: Erosion and sediment control techniques; stream restoration; GPS/GIS/Surveying; Heavy equipment operation around environmentally sensitive areas; Permitting, project management, small business contracting with natural resource agencies, storm-water mitigation, etc.
- A willingness to work and learn intensely for 10 months/40 hours a week.
- An ability to get to school every day at Renton. (Funding may be available to assist qualified veterans with relocation expenses.).
- An interest in transitioning from a military mission to a personal mission of working to protect the environment and the future of our region.

Assistance may be available for veterans with housing transitions, when necessary, and the program will also provide other support services to ensure that the veteran is getting help in all areas of their life. The VCC also plans to assist with job placement during and after the program is completed. The veterans will be working and learning with each other most of the time, rather than mixed in the general college community. Arrangements for screening and enrollment can be made by contacting Mark Fischer or Mark Seery at (360) 725-2224 or markf@dva.wa.gov or marks@dva.wa.gov. For more information on veterans programs in Washington state, refer to www.dva.wa.gov. [Source: Washington DVA News Release 14 Jun 07 ++]
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DOD MENTAL HEALTH TF UPDATE 04: Secretary of Defense Robert Gates received the Department of Defense Task Force on Mental Health results and forwarded them to the Congress on 14 JUN. The department will have six months to develop and implement a corrective action plan. Dr. S. Ward Casscells, assistant secretary of defense for health affairs said, “This report points to significant shortfalls in achieving goals and taking care of our service members and their families. We will continue to address the need for mental health care in order to reinforce our commitment to providing the best care in the world to our service members and their families who deserve no less. Significant findings include:
- Mental health care stigma remains pervasive and is a significant barrier to care.
- Mental health professionals are not sufficiently accessible to service members and their families.
- There are significant gaps in the continuum of care for psychological health.
- The military system does not have enough resources, funding or personnel to adequately support the psychological health of service members and their families in peace and during conflict.

Implementation of recommendations and remedies to support our service members has already begun, to include:
- Military services have established dozens of deployment health clinics around the country.
- Mental health providers have been embedded in line units in Iraq and Afghanistan to perform initial treatment for combat stress and post -traumatic stress disorder.
- Service members are receiving additional mental health training to de-stigmatize when they need to reach out for help.
- The services are currently proactively exploring options to adequately resource their mental health care providers.

The Task Force on Mental Health was congressionally directed and organized in JUN 06 to assess and recommend actions for improving the efficacy of mental health services provided to service members and their families. It includes seven DoD members and seven non-DoD members. The report can be viewed on the health affairs Web site at http://www.ha.osd.mil/dhb/mhtf/MHTF-Report-Final.pdf . [Source: DoD News Release 15 Jun 07 ++]
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WOUNDED WARRIOR ASSISTANCE UPDATE 01: The Senate Armed Services Committee, chaired by Sen. Carl Levin (D-MI), took a major step on 14 JUN by unanimously approving S.1606, the "Dignified Treatment of Wounded Warriors Act." This comprehensive package of initiatives proposed by Levin and 29 bipartisan co-sponsors would address the problems highlighted in media articles and subsequent government studies concerning problems faced by outpatients at Walter Reed and other military and VA facilities. Sen. John Warner (R-VA) emphasized the need for a balanced perspective on Walter Reed, saying the new legislation in no way reflects negatively upon military medical professionals who work so hard to deliver quality care. Sen. Daniel Akaka (D-HI), who chairs the Veterans Affairs Committee, said the legislation is important to provide a truly seamless transition for wounded warriors. Members of the committee offered 30 amendments, of which 29 were approved. Among many other changes, the bill would require:

- Development of a comprehensive DoD/VA policy by January on the care, management, and transition needs for members with combat-related injuries.
- Enhanced care for medically retired servicemembers and certain caregiver family members for combat-injured personnel in military or VA hospitals.
- A comprehensive DoD/VA plan for prevention, diagnosis, mitigation, and treatment of traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress syndrome, to include cognitive screening before and after deployment.
- A DoD/VA Interagency Program Office to develop and implement a joint electronic medical record.
- Additional recruitment and enhanced hiring authority to address the shortfall of mental health and other health professionals.
- Revision of the military disability evaluation system, to include use of VA standards to make disability determinations, accounting for all medical conditions that render a member unfit for duty, review of the services' recent disability separation determinations, and increased severance pay for certain disability separates.
- Upgrades for facilities housing military patients.
- Development of a handbook for wounded warriors containing a comprehensive description of compensation and other benefits’
[Source: MOAA Leg Up 15 Jun 07 ++]
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COLA 2008 UPDATE 05: The Bureau of Labor and Statistics announced the MAY 07 consumer price index, which is used to calculate the annual cost of living adjustment for military retired pay and annuities. The CPI had its sixth straight increase for FY2007 - 0.8% above April's value. The CPI now stands at 2.3% above its starting point at the beginning of the fiscal year in October 2006. [Source: MOAA Leg Up 15 Jun 07 ++]
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VDBC UPDATE 18: A Center for Naval Analysis (CNA) study sparked some controversy at the 8 JUN meeting of the Veterans Disability Benefits Commission when CNA analysts told the Commission that VA disability compensation amounts are too low for younger severely disabled vets, but may be too high for those disabled later in life. To put these comments in perspective, the CNA study was looking at how well VA disability benefits succeeded in replacing lost earnings for disabled vets compared to non-disabled vets. The analysis highlighted that those who become severely disabled at younger ages face an additional financial penalty because their earning careers are cut short, whereas those afflicted by severe disabilities later in life have had an opportunity to accumulate larger savings from military and post-service earnings. That means the earnings disparity with non-disabled vets is less for older people than younger people. If you look at the overall average, CNA said, VA disability payments just about make up the earnings differential. But when you break it out by age, there are significant differences. While there was general acknowledgment of the particular inequity faced by younger disabled members, some commissioners reacted sharply to the idea that those disabled at later ages are overpaid. The bottom line is that replacing lost earnings is a major element in that equation, but not the only one. A perennial source of contention is the extent to which VA compensation also should recognize decreased quality of life (pain, suffering, loss of body function, etc.). CNA analysts said they found little evidence that that factor has played a major role in establishing VA disability payment rates. [Source: MOAA Leg Up 15 Jun 07 ++]
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DIGITAL CAMERA BASICS: Digital camera use can be severely hindered if you don’t understand some of the workings of the digital camera. So here are a few simple things you need to know about digital cameras to help maintain your photo shooting:

Shutter Lag: This can result in missing a shot because something moved. It is the pause between pressing the shutter and the onset of the actual exposure or picture taking. Many digital cameras have a noticeable shutter lag because they auto-focus after you press the shutter button. With most digital cameras you can get the picture you want without the lag by pressing the shutter button half-way down as you set up the picture. This will lock in the focus, and, when you press the shutter button down fully, the shutter lag time will be greatly lessened.
LCD Screens: Using the LCD screen is one of the biggest battery drains. If your digital camera has a viewfinder, as most do, you can use it instead of the LCD to frame your picture to conserve battery power. Using the viewfinder also has two other advantages — it will help reduce shutter lag, and it is easier to use in bright sunlight.
Memory Cards: There are a few important things to remember about using memory cards.
- Don’t remove the memory card while the camera is processing a photo.
- Working with a very low battery can corrupt all the pictures on your memory card, so be sure to keep those batteries charged.
- If you use a card reader to transfer the pictures to the computer, move or copy the pictures to the computer before you try to edit or delete them. Deleting a photo directly from a memory card can corrupt the card.
Digital Zoom: Digital zoom is an electronic zooming of the image. It can cause a noticeable degradation of the image. In fact, it is added to digital cameras today only because it is much cheaper than optical zoom and makes the camera sound more powerful. If you want to make sure your photos are crisp and clear when you zoom in, use only the optical zoom. If your camera has digital zoom, see the instructions that came with your camera to find out how to turn it off.
Naming Pictures: Some cameras name all of the images in sequence from the same starting point. So when you move a set of pictures to the computer the next images are given the same numerical names as the previous set of pictures. Many a user has moved the second set to the computer and inadvertently overwritten some precious memories from the first set of pictures. Be sure to learn how your camera names the pictures, and also be sure to give your photos more meaningful names once you get them onto your computer.
JPEG Format: Most cameras take pictures using a JPEG format (also shown as JPG). This is a compressed format. Each time you change and save a JPEG the photo is recompressed and you lose some of the details (clarity) of the photo. Although the degradation is not noticeable until the photo is resaved many times, it is always best to save a copy of the original photo before you start editing and changing the photo.
[Source: AARP Webletter by Sandy Berger 21 OCT 05]
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PROSTRATE PROBLEMS UPDATE 03: The traditional two-step approach of PSA testing and digital rectal examination has helped doctors identify prostate tumors early, while the cancers can still be cured. But PSA testing, like many disease-screening procedures, misses some cases of cancer and in other cases erroneously highlights noncancerous conditions. In the first clinical study of a new blood protein associated with prostate cancer, researchers have found that the marker, called EPCA or early prostate cancer antigen, can successfully detect prostate cancer in its earliest stages. At the same time, the marker successfully avoids the problem of false positive results that plagues prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing. Initial study results appeared in the 15 MAY 05 issue of Cancer Research. Robert H. Getzenberg, Ph.D., professor of urology and director of research at the James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute at Johns Hopkins is heading the study. Getzenberg said, “This new blood test, when coupled with PSA screening, may help reduce the number of both unnecessary biopsies and undetected prostate tumors. In addition to being highly sensitive to prostate cancer, the EPCA test is also very specific to it, meaning that other cancers and benign prostate conditions are not detected, thus boosting doctors’ confidence that a positive EPCA test is really a sign of prostate cancer. Once this test is refined and approved for general use, it will have an impact on the detection and treatment of prostate cancer.”
Every year about 1.6 million men with high PSA levels have biopsies for which about 80% turn out to be cancer-free. An updated report on the test in the Prostrate Cancer Winter 2007 noted in tests of more than 600 men, even in men where PSA has failed, EPCA-2 is almost 100% specific for prostate cancer, and picks up greater than 90% of the prostate cancer patients. Also, EPCA-2 does not appear to be elevated in conditions like BPH and prostatitis. And, EPCA-2 can detect the presence of prostate cancer in men with normal PSA levels. EPCA-2 may even be able to distinguish the deadliest cancers, which quickly develop the ability to spread beyond the prostate, from those that are less aggressive. More tests are needed, and EPCA-2 will soon be studied in a large, multicenter trial, with the goal of obtaining FDA approval for its use. [Source: Johns Hopkins Medicine articles 2007 ++]
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TEXAS TUITION WAIVER DENIALS: Two Texas veterans are challenging in a federal lawsuit a state policy barring them from receiving college tuition waivers because they were legal residents but not yet U.S. citizens when they entered the service. The two are honorably discharged veterans who served in the Gulf War and have since become U.S. citizens. The case focuses on the veterans’ exclusion from the Texas Hazlewood Act, a benefit that exempts those who were legal residents of Texas at the time they entered the military from paying tuition and some fees at state colleges. Both plaintiffs are college graduates who have exhausted the money from their GI bill. One, wants to obtain a master’s degree in education from West Texas A&M in Canyon and the other wants to seek a Ph.D. in finance from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Typically, someone in their position could depend on the Hazlewood Act to continue their education. But the application for the Hazlewood waiver asks whether the applicant was a U.S. citizen upon entering the military. If the answer is no, the application instructs the person not to continue the process. Their attorney, Carlos Becerra contends the application requirement deters many veterans who otherwise would have applied for the Hazlewood exemption. [Source: Associated Press Anabelle Garay article 28 Jun 07 ++]
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VETERAN LEGISLATION STATUS 30 JUN 07: On 28 JUN, the House and Senate adjourned for their Independence Day recess until noon 9 JUL. Prior to adjournment the Senate reached a unanimous-consent agreement to resume consideration of the National Defense Authorization Act (S. 1585) on 9 JUL, following morning business.
For a listing of Congressional bills of interest to the veteran community that have been introduced in the 110th Congress refer to the Bulletin attachment. By clicking on the bill number you can access the actual legislative language of the bill and see if your representative has signed on as a cosponsor. Support of these bills through cosponsorship by other legislators is critical if they are ever going to move through the legislative process for a floor vote to become law. A good indication on that likelihood is the number of cosponsors who have signed onto the bill. A cosponsor is a member of Congress who has joined one or more members in his/her chamber (i.e. House or Senate) to sponsor a bill or amendment. The member who introduces the bill is considered the sponsor. Members subsequently signing on are called cosponsors. Any number of members may cosponsor a bill in the House or Senate. At http://thomas.loc.gov you can also review a copy of each bill, determine its current status, the committee it has been assigned to, and if your legislator is a sponsor or cosponsor of it. To determine what bills, amendments your representative has sponsored, cosponsored, or dropped sponsorship on refer to http://thomas.loc.gov/bss/d110/sponlst.html. The key to increasing cosponsorship is letting our representatives know of veterans feelings on issues. At the end of some listed bills is a web link that can be used to do that. Otherwise, you can locate on http://thomas.loc.gov who your representative is and his/her phone number, mailing address, or email/website to communicate with a message or letter of your own making. [Source: RAO Bulletin Attachment 30 Jun 07 ++]
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Lt. James "EMO" Tichacek, USN (Ret)
Director, Retiree Assistance Office, U.S. Embassy Warden & IRS VITA Baguio City RP
PSC 517 Box RCB, FPO AP 96517
Tel: (760) 839-9003 when in U.S. & Cell: 0915-361-3503 when in Philippines.
Email: raoemo@sbcglobal.net (Primary) & raoemo@mozcom.com (Alternate)
Web: http://post_119_gulfport_ms.tripod.com/rao1.html
AL/AMVETS/DAV/FRA/NAUS/NCOA/MOAA/USDR/VFW/VVA/CG33/DD890/AD37 member

[boardman]

RAO Bulletin Update 15 July 2007
Page 1

THIS BULLETIN UPDATE CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING ARTICLES:

-- Shad [04] ................................. (Studies Flawed)
-- DoD Mental Health TF [05] ... (Mental Health Shortfalls)
-- DoD Disability Evaluation System [02] . (Pro Bono Effort)
-- DoD Disability Evaluation System [03] .... (NDAA Includes S.1606)
-- Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee (SVAC) .. (What it Does)
-- SVAC [01] ....................... (5 Bills Cleared)
-- NDAA 2008 [06] ......... (Senate Debate Begins)
-- Wounded Warrior Assistance [02] ........ (Hotline Call Center)
-- Reserve Retirement Age [11] ................. (NDAA amendment)
-- VA Cemetery Iowa .................... ($7.6 Million Grant)
-- VA Cemetery Wisconsin ............... ($622,580 Grant)
-- BRAVE & GIVE Acts ........................ (SSA Rating Acceleration)
-- VA Homeless Vets [05] ............ (Homeless Grants)
-- Tuition Aid for RC .................. (Summary by State)
-- Florida Vet Benefits [03] .................. (4 New Laws)
-- Vet Initiatives [02] ............................ (4 New Laws)
-- LCD Screen Cleaning .................... (Magic Eraser)
-- Silver Star .................. (3rdh Highest Valor Award)
-- Okinawa Agent Orange Use ................ (BVA 1998 Ruling)
-- Identity Theft [08] ...... (Prevention, Identification & Mitigation)
-- TSGLI [01] ......................... (Pay Out Retroactive)
-- CBO Military Compensation Report [01] ... (Pay Raise Questioned)
-- Concurrent Receipt Status .... (570,000 Not Yet Eligible)
-- SSA Retirement Application ....... (Applying Online)
-- VA 2007 Survey ............................ (Starts 8 July)
-- Navy Body Modification Policy ........... (Clarified)
-- Tricare Member Choice Center .......... (New Program)
-- Cell Phone Payment Suspension... (90+ Day Deployments)
-- Vet Benefits New York ....... (New Veteran Measures)
-- Funeral Honors [02] ............. (Bugler Ranks Thinning)
-- Psoriasis ....................................... (What it Is)
-- Travel Immunizations ................... (What to Get)
-- SSA Future Benefit Estimate ........... (Where you stand)
-- Vietnam War Facts ......................... (Stats)
-- Veteran Legislation Status 13 JUL 07 -------- (Where We Stand)


Editor’s Note 1: The article on “Manila DEERS/RAPIDS Workstation” was sent in error 13 JUL to some of the non-Philippine subscribers. It only applies to veterans residing in the PI and should be disregarded by all others.

Editor’s Note 2: Attached is a listing of veteran legislation with current cosponsor status that has been introduced in the 110th Congress. To see any of these bills passed into law representatives need input from their veteran constituents to instruct them on how to vote.


SHAD UPDATE 04: A group of Navy veterans says that findings from a study of the health effects of at-sea biological and chemical weapons testing on thousands of sailors 40 years ago are flawed because the study ignored those with the highest levels of exposure. The $3 million study, paid for by the Department of Veterans Affairs but conducted by the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy, took four years to complete. It was commissioned after years of complaints from veterans that the tests made them sick. The Institute of Medicine is a private organization created by the federal government to perform medical tests. Findings from a medical records survey and questionnaire mailed to more than 6,000 sailors who were aboard 22 Navy ships and Army tugs during the tests cast doubt on claims that exposure to the tests led to severe medical problems in ensuing years. The findings, released last month, found that participants had higher death rates from cardiovascular disease and had higher self-reported rates of memory loss, attention problems and neurodegenerative disorders than a group of sailors who did not participate in Project SHAD, or Shipboard Hazard and Defense. But scientists were unable to point to medical links between these problems and the real and simulated chemical and biological weapons used during the tests. Moreover, since participants also reported higher rates of medically insignificant symptoms such as earlobe pain, scientists questioned whether some of the discrepancies were caused by participants’ belief that something was wrong with them.

However, retired Cmdr. John Alderson, who served as a commanding officer of the five Army light tugs (numbered 2080, 2081, 2085, 2086 and 2087) that were a central part of the tests, said the study was incomplete because it failed to include many of the sailors who served on the tugs, at a test laboratory on Johnston Island ( a small island about 700 miles west of Pearl Harbor) and at a base near Pearl Harbor where the weapons were mixed. The study’s director William Page confirmed Alderson’s claims but said he could not be sure what effect the omission had on the findings because he did not know how many people were excluded or the severity of the illnesses they reported. Page said, “We got as many people on the light tugs as possible. They didn’t have complete rosters. We would have loved to have included the light tug personnel, but we just couldn’t find all of them”. Alderson estimated that more than 500 sailors served on the tugs during the experiments. Neither he nor Page could say how many were included in the study, but Page admitted that the majority of tug sailors were never contacted. The IOM report says tug crew members were exposed to a nerve agent, staph bacteria and bacterial agents that could cause rabbit fever and Q fever. Alderson said tug crew members were exposed to at least four other biological weapons not mentioned in the findings, but he said he could not name them because they are still classified. A second veteran confirmed Alderson’s account, but asked not to be identified. Although the tugs’ crews were required to stay inside during the tests, and state-of-the-art paper filters and specially designed air conditioning systems were used to protect the crews, the filters sometimes failed after they were soaked with sea water. Sensors in the boats’ interior spaces periodically detected trace amounts of biological and chemical agents.

According to Navy officials the SHAD tests, which were classified until a few years ago, were conducted between 1962 and 1973 to determine whether Navy crews could be protected from chemical or biological attacks. Alderson said he thinks the study had a more nefarious purpose: to determine how effective American chemical and biological weapons could be against enemy navies. The five tugs were sent to sail in a line formation that could be as long as 100 miles. Two Marine A-4 Skyhawks would then drop substances close to the first ship. Scientists would measure readings on each ship to determine how far weapons clouds would travel before they dispersed to levels that were ineffective. The larger ships had simulants blown aft from their bows by giant fans or had them dropped from passing aircraft which were later found to be toxic. Alderson said, “One reason they say it took so long to notice problems, is that most of the skippers are dead from cancer or respiratory illnesses.” Bernard Edelman, deputy director for policy and government affairs for the Vietnam Veterans of America, said sailors were given inoculations but that they were not entered on the sailor’s medical records, meaning the sailors don’t know what they received. We are still trying to uncover the facts, he said As Yogi Berra said, “It ain’t over til it’s over.” [Source: NavyTimes Chris Amos article 6 Jul 07 ++]


DOD MENTAL HEALTH TF UPDATE 05: The Co-chairs of a recent DoD mental health task force pulled no punches at a hearing before the House Armed Services Committee on 12 JUL. Navy Surgeon General VADM Donald Arthur told the panel that military mental health programs and awareness had become deemphasized and atrophied over the last three decades in which the services experienced no sustained combat, and that urgent action is essential to meet spiraling mental health needs caused by repeated wartime deployments. "We must give equal attention to mental and physical health as we train for war," he said. He also stressed the important role of leadership emphasis and sensitivity to mental health issues in building members' resilience in the face of stress. Co-chair Dr. Shelley MacDermid, a Purdue University professor and Director of the Military Family Research Institute, said the primary need is increased and permanent funding. The real key is to increase the number of military mental health professionals and increase Tricare reimbursement to providers to expand participation by civilian providers. She pointed out that payments to mental health providers were recently reduced, and that Tricare pays proportionally even less for mental health than for other conditions. In many cases, Tricare coverage is limited - not covering intensive outpatient therapy, for example. She highlighted that coverage for Guard and Reserve families is a particular problem, and that DoD needs to improve its coverage to ‘hometown USA’. Assistant Secretary of Defense (Health Affairs) Dr. S. Ward Cassells also testified at the hearing and endorsed the task force report, emphasizing that the need is for family members as well as servicemembers. He told the panel the top priority for DoD health care is mental health, indicating he expects to have an action plan by SEP 07. He emphasized the need to attack the stigma often associated with mental health, particularly for those worried about how it may affect their security clearances,!
and lea
dership opportunities. The Committee members indicated their strong support, but requested prioritization of the task force's top 10 issues out of the seven pages of recommendations and asked for specific funding amounts needed to address them. [Source: MOAA Leg Up 13 Jul 07 ++]


DOD DISABILITY EVALUATION SYSTEM UPDATE 02: Wounded service personnel who allege that the government is downplaying their injuries and cheating them out of benefits have some new legal ammunition: three major law firms offering free legal services. Concerned that injured soldiers are getting a raw deal upon returning home, three firms — Foley & Lardner; Atlanta's King & Spalding; and New York's LeBoeuf, Lamb, Greene & MacRae — have offered to do pro bono work on behalf of veterans who are appealing low disability ratings made by the government. Those ratings dictate how much money injured veterans are entitled to, along with any medical and retirement benefits. According to attorneys, numerous veterans at Walter Reed Army Medical Center who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan have claimed that the military is underrating their injuries, thus shortchanging them of benefits they've earned. Ehren Halse, one of 15 King & Spalding attorneys, who has spoken with about 10 injured soldiers in the last week, noted that the bureaucracy and administrative procedures that involve disability rankings are confusing enough for attorneys, let alone injured soldiers who may not even be aware of their rights.

Walter Reed, U.S. Army and U.S. Department of Defense officials were unavailable for comment.
Discrepancies in the disability rating system came to light about a year ago, when the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), a nonprofit organization that guides injured veterans through the medical evaluation process, started spotting low ratings. The DAV investigation coincided with recent media reports that exposed poor conditions at Walter Reed, sparking a congressional investigation. Ronald Smith, deputy general counsel for DAV who has handled several disability claims on behalf soldiers said the demand for DAV services has been very high. To date, he knows of at least 30 cases at Walter Reed in which injured soldiers received substantially low ratings and are appealing their medical evaluations. Among those is Fred Ball, an explosion victim with two children who had a substantial part of his skull blown off in Iraq and a metal fragment embedded in his brain. According to Smith, the military should have given Ball a 100% disability rating, entitling him up to $2,471 a month. Instead, he got a 10% rating, entitling him to $337 a month. He's been declared unfit for duty, but not hurt enough to receive full benefits which Smith finds extremely troubling.

Participating attorneys will focus much of their energies on helping injured soldiers appeal their low disability rankings. They'll appear with the veterans at formal hearings before what is known as the Physical Evaluation Board. This is the panel that actually gives out the ratings based on a medical evaluation by military doctors. If veterans disagree with the rating, they then request a formal hearing before the board. Some lawyers also plan to appeal the soldiers' cases directly to the U.S. Court of Federal Claims in Washington, which has jurisdiction over disability ratings appeals. Among the key arguments that lawyers plan to make before the court is that the military is unlawfully operating outside the congressionally mandated Veterans Affairs disability-rating system, which dictates exactly how much soldiers will be compensated for their injuries or diseases. Under the existing guidelines, a 20% or lower rating entitles a veteran to one severance check and no other benefits. Ratings above 30% entitles a veteran and his family with lifetime benefits. [Source: New York Lawyer Tresa Baldes article 19Jun 07 ++]


DOD DISABILITY EVALUATION SYSTEM UPDATE 03: A package of improvements in treatment and benefits for wounded service members — including some precedent-setting changes in DoD disability policies — was attached 12 JUL to the Senate’s $648 billion NDAA defense policy bill, approved by a 94-0 vote. The bill S.1606 initially introduced by Sen. Carl Levin (MI) called the Dignified Treatment of Wounded Warriors Act, would make a variety of changes in current policies, especially in helping troops whose injuries are so severe that they are unable to continue serving in the military and cannot get post-service treatment from the Department of Veterans Affairs. The bill orders a review of all recent disability discharges where a service member received a lump-sum severance payment instead of the lifetime disability retired pay that would come from being rated with a disability of 30% or more. It would also radically change the entire military review process by assuming that anyone who has served in the military was physically and mentally fit before entering service.

The assumption of fitness, which would apply to anyone who has served at least six months, would prevent the services from deciding that a service member’s post-deployment problems, especially mental health issues, were the result of a pre-service condition that does not warrant severance or disability pay. Anyone medically retired from the military for combat-related reasons would be eligible for three years of military health care after discharge, a move aimed at reducing problems getting post-service treatment. The bill would address concerns that the military’s process for evaluating service members seems adversarial, and that the services — especially the Army — seem to consistently assign lower disability ratings than would be assigned by the VA by ordering the military to use the VA’s disability ratings schedule unless the military’s ratings are higher. The House of Representatives also included a wounded warrior package as part of its version of the defense authorization bill passed earlier this year, which means congressional negotiators who meet later this year to work out a compromise bill will face questions about treatment, medical retirement and other issues. [Source: NavyTimes Rick Maze article 12 Jul 07 ++]


SENATE VETERANS' AFFAIRS COMMITTEE (SVAC): The Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee (SVAC) was created in 1970 to transfer responsibilities for veterans from the Finance and Labor committees to a single panel. From 1947 to 1970, matters relating to veterans compensation and veterans generally were referred to the Committee on Finance, while matters relating to the vocational rehabilitation, education, medical care, civil relief, and civilian readjustment of veterans were referred to the Committee on Labor and Public Welfare. Congressional legislation affecting veterans changed over the years. For the members of the armed forces and their families in the nation's early wars -- the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, the Mexican War, the Civil War and the Spanish-American War -- the response of the federal government had been essentially financial. This was clearly the legislative mission of the Senate Committee on Pensions which was created as one of the Senate's original standing committees in 1816 and continued until its termination in the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946.

During World War I the nature of the congressional response to veterans' needs changed towards a more diversified set of programs. A war risk insurance program, which was referred to the Senate Finance Committee, changed the consideration of veterans benefits in the Senate. The Finance Committee was the Senate standing committee most responsible for veterans programs from 1917 to 1946. After World War II, the Finance Committee handled the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944, the "GI Bill of Rights," which extended to servicemen and their families, a number of benefits including unemployment assistance, education, vocational training, housing and business loan guarantees, as well as the traditional medical and pension benefits of previous times. Many experts believe this law was one of the most important elements in the expansion of the middle class following World War II. The Veterans Affairs Committee had nine members in its initial congress, the 92nd Congress (1971-73). It now has a total of 14 members inclusive of its Chairman. At present Daniel K. Akaka from Hawaii is Chairman and Larry E. Craig from Idaho is the Ranking Member.

The Standing Rules of the Senate direct that to this committee shall be referred all proposed legislation, messages, petitions, memorials, and other matters relating to the following subjects:
- Compensation of veterans.
- Life insurance issued by the Government on account of service in the Armed Forces.
- National cemeteries.
- Pensions of all wars of the United States, general and special.
- Readjustment of servicemen to civil life.
- Soldiers' and sailors' civil relief.
- Veterans' hospitals, medical care and treatment of veterans.
- Veterans' measures generally.
- Vocational rehabilitation and education of veterans.

The SVAC is an oversight, investigative, and legislative committee. It solicits and appreciates learning of problems, concerns, and areas of success that can be applied nationally to help all veterans. Input can be made at http://veterans.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?pageid=1. However, if you have a specific problem or need specific help with the VA or other federal agencies, the Senators from your home state can best assist you in that regard. Contact either one of your state's two Senators by referring to http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_i ... rs_cfm.cfm.
[Source: http://veterans.senate.gov/public/ Jul 07 ++]


SVAC UPDATE 01: The Senate Veterans Affairs Committee (SVAC) cleared five bills during a Senate mark-up. The bills now move to the full Senate for a vote. Three of them should clear easily within a week, while the other two may require some debate. They are:
- S. 1233 which would open enrollment to new Category 8 veterans who have been prevented from enrolling since JAN 03. Opponents of the measure argue that there is not sufficient funding to pay for the numbers of veterans who would have access to the VA. The DAV, PVA, VFW, and AMVET veteran organization’s Independent Budget has asked for an additional $1.3 billion to fund their care.
- S. 1315 which is a large omnibus benefits bill that would improve and expand VA insurance programs, adaptive housing grants and automobile assistance, among other enhancements. Critics, however, expressed concern that the benefits awarded to Filipino veterans would be too generous with respect to the lower cost-of-living in the Philippines.
- S. 423 which would provide an annual cost-of-living adjustment for veterans’ benefits should pass easily;
- S. 1163 which would provide benefits to veterans with partial sight in their second eye should pass easily; and
- S. 479 which would expand programs to deal with suicide prevention and other mental health problems among veterans should pass easily.
[Source: VFW Washington Weekly 13 Jul 07 ++]


NDAA 2008 UPDATE 06: When the Senate returned from its Independence Day on 9 JUL, it immediately began deliberations on the 2008 NDAA. So far several very important amendments have been offered to the bill. These include:

- Amendment 2000 by Sen. Bill Nelson (D-FL), which would end the deduction of VA survivor benefits from SBP annuities and would start the “paid-up” provision of SBP premiums this October instead of next year.
- Amendment 2046 by Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-NY) which is based on her bill S. 1444 known as the Supply Our Soldiers Act. The amendment would give deployed and wounded troops a voucher every other month to allow families and loved ones to be able to send a letter or small package free of postage.
- Amendment 2018 by Sen. Chuck Hagel (R-NE) to provide .5% pay increase over the Employment Cost Index (ECI) for the military in each of the next five years.
- Amendment 2049 by Sen. Saxby Chambliss (R-GA) to lower retirement age for reservists who have served since 9/11.
- An amendment by Sen. Daniel Akaka (D-HI) which would improve the capacity of VA to care for veterans with Traumatic Brain Injuries, extend the time from two years to five that a veteran would have to receive care from the VA upon their release from active duty, address potential homelessness among newly discharged servicemembers, ensure access to VA mental health and dental programs and recognize the importance of the National Guard and Reserve forces in VA’s outreach programs. It also orders a review of all recent disability discharges where a service member received a lump-sum severance payment instead of the lifetime disability retired pay that would come from being rated with a disability of 30% or more, and calls for a review of DOD’s entire disability ratings system, to include the use of VA standards to make disability determinations. The Senate has already accepted this amendment and incorporated it into the bill.
- A joint amendment by Senators Lautenberg (D-NJ) and Hagel (R-NE) would specify that the percentage increase in retiree TRICARE fees in any year can't exceed the percentage increase in retired pay.
- An amendment by Sen. Lincoln (D-AR) would authorize 10 years of post-service benefit use by mobilized Guard and Reserve members (who now lose all benefits upon separation).
- Amendment 2006 by Sen. Sessions (R-AL) would reimburse up to $300 for drill-related travel expenses for drill periods conducted outside commuting distance.
- An amendment by Sen. Landrieu (D-LA) would authorize tax credits for employers to help offset impacts of mobilizations on their businesses.

Other proposed amendments are:
2014 Hagel: Allow designation of portion of death gratuity
2015 Hagel: Expand family readiness council to include servicemembers and spouses
2016 Hagel: $25K accession bonus for mental health professionals
2017 Hagel: G/R retirement age reduction proportional to longer service
2019 Levin: Wounded warrior bill passed by SASC
2026 Klobuchar: Allow unlimited sites for family assistance program (delete max of 6)
2027 Pryor: Authorize R&R for members whose Iraq tours extended to 15 mos
2029 Gregg: Protect child custody for deployees (like House)
2030 Gregg: Ban deployment of both member spouses (like House)
2031 Gregg: Support for children of deployed members
2032 Hagel: Limit to 12-month deployment
2034 Murray: Military family leave program
2035 Murray: Child care
2036 Murray: G/R benefits at discharge
2037 Coleman: Authorize 3% end strength variance (vice 2%) (like House)
2039 Coleman: Reserves eligible for assignment incentive pay
2040 Coleman: 3% end strength variance (dupe?)
2043 Durbin: Incentive programs for nurses
2047 Clinton: Transportation for additional people to burial ceremonies
2050 Chambliss: Report on patient satisfaction survey
2051 Coleman: G/R licensure
2054 Lieberman: Female mental health
2055 Lieberman: Info requirements for separatees
2056 Harkin: Family support for deployed members
2057 Feingold: Cell phone contract termination protection
2059 Cornyn: Cut fed funds to schools denying JROTC access
2060 Sanders: Gulf War Illness

The White House released its Statement of Administration Policy on the 2008 National Defense Authorization Act. The document outlines the President’s position on several components of the bill and stipulates his intention to veto potential amendments. Among the provisions that are not supported by the White House are those relating to the Insurrection Act and reduced retirement age. Amendments that would likely draw a veto of the NDAA if passed include those relating to Iran, Guantanamo Bay, and the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq. A copy of the statement can be found at the White House’s Office of Management and Budget site at www.whitehouse.gov/omb.Veterans are encouraged to let their elected officials know how they feel about these and any other issues that affect them. This can be easily done by referring to website www.naus.org and clicking the CapWiz area, selecting the issue of concern, and entering their zip code. Once the Senate completes action on the NDAA, the House and Senate will meet in conference to iron out differences and submit a single version of HR 1585, the Defense Authorization Act of 2008. [Source: NAUS Weekly Update 13 Jul 77 ++]


WOUNDED WARRIOR ASSISTANCE UPDATE 02: The Wounded Soldier and Family Hotline Call Center received more than 3,000 calls during the three months since it began operating 19 MAR. The line was established for soldiers and family members in response to scandals regarding unsatisfactory treatment and living conditions, and unconscionable delays in processing for evaluation and compensation for wounds at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Col. Ed Mason, director of the hotline, said that when a caller phones the hot line, the person who answers puts the caller in direct contact with the agency needed to address the problem. The hot line, staffed by Army officers and civilians at Human Resources Command in Alexandria VA, reports its findings to senior Army echelons in order to avoid the information vacuum that existed before the Walter Reed scandal broke. The Wounded Soldier and Family Hotline Call Center is at (800) 984-8523. [Source: Armed Forces News Issue 13 Jul 07 ++]


RESERVE RETIREMENT AGE UPDATE 11: Senator Chambliss introduced S. 648 earlier in this session of the 110th Congress to reduce age 60 as the age in which members of the Reserve Component are eligible to receive retirement pay. S.648 as originally introduced would have amended Title 10 to reduce the eligible age for receipt of non-regular military service retired pay for members of the Ready Reserve in active federal status or on active duty for significant periods on or after September 11, 2001 (i.e. age to be reduced by three months for each 90 days of being called to active duty for Title 10 wartime duty or Title 32 response for a national emergency declared by the President). Under this provision, the age may not be reduced below 50 years of age. The Senate Armed Services Committee in its markup of the National Defense Authorization Act, S. 1547, incorporated most of S. 648 but would credit only qualifying service after the legislation is enacted, not any active duty service retroactive to September 11, 2001. To correct this inequity Senator Chambliss has offered a Senate floor amendment to the Fiscal year 2008 National Defense Authorization Act, SA 2049, to restore the key omitted language of S. 648 by crediting all qualifying active duty service on or after 9/11. The National guard Association of the United states (NGAUS) is asking all concerned to contact their legislators to support this amendment. This can easily be dne by referrinfg to www.ngaus.org/content.asp?bid=1805&False and entering your zip cod. [Source: NGAUS Leg Alert 13 Jul 07 ++]


VA CEMETERY IOWA: Ensuring that Iowa veterans have a final resting place to honor their service to the nation, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced the award of a $7.6 million grant to establish a new state veterans’ cemetery in Van Meter. The Iowa Veterans Cemetery, the first state veterans’ cemetery in Iowa, will be located in Dallas County near Des Moines. Nearly 70,000 veterans and their families live within its service area. The grant will pay 100% of allowable costs for the cemetery’s construction, which is scheduled to begin this fall. It also covers construction of nearly 10,000 full-casket gravesites, 750 in-ground cremation sites, 768 columbarium niches, a memorial walkway, a storage building, utilities, landscaping and irrigation. Interments are expected to begin in the fall of 2008. Keokuk National Cemetery, operated by VA in the southeastern part of the state, has space available to accommodate both casketed and cremated remains. VA’s State Cemetery Grants Program complements VA’s 125 national cemeteries across the country. The program helps states establish, expand or improve veterans cemeteries. To date, the VA program has helped establish 66 state veterans’ cemeteries in 35 states, Saipan and Guam, which provided more than 22,000 burials in fiscal year 2006. VA has awarded 155 grants totaling more than $283 million. Information on VA burial benefits can be obtained from national cemetery offices, from the VA Web site on the Internet at http://www.cem.va.gov or by calling VA regional offices toll-free at 1-800-827-1000. Information about Iowa’s state veterans cemetery can be obtained from the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs at http://www.iowava.org/asp/cemetaries.asp or (515) 242-5331. [Source: VA Press Release 12 Jul 07 ++]


VA CEMETERY WISCONSIN: Continuing its mission of providing a final resting place for Wisconsin veterans, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced the award of a $622,580 grant to the state to expand the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner. The grant will pay for the construction of 460 full-casket burial sites, 444 in-ground cremation burial sites, 704 columbarium niches, a memorial walkway, a storage building, utilities, landscaping and irrigation. The Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery, which began interments in 2000, was also developed through VA’s State Cemetery Grants Program. VA funded two other state veterans’ cemeteries in Wisconsin: the Central Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in King, and the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Union Grove. VA’s State Cemetery Grants Program complements VA’s 125 national cemeteries across the country. The program helps states establish, expand or improve state veterans cemeteries. To date, the VA state cemetery program has helped establish 66 veterans’ cemeteries in 35 states, Saipan and Guam, which provided more than 22,000 burials in 2006. Since the program began in 1980, VA has awarded 154 grants totaling more than $276 million. Information about Wisconsin’s veterans cemeteries can be obtained from the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs at http://dva.state.wi.us/Cemeteries.asp or 608-261-0179. For more info on VA burial benefits refer to from national cemetery offices, from the Internet at http://www.cem.va.gov or by calling VA regional offices at 1(800) 827-1000. [Source: VA News release 10 Jul 07 ++]


BRAVE & GIVE ACTS: Rep. John Sarbanes (D-MD-03) introduced legislation on 29 JUN that if approved will streamline the process in which disabled war veterans receive government benefits. The Benefit Rating Acceleration for Veterans Entitlement Act (H.R.2953), or BRAVE Act will allow a veteran who receives a 100% disability rating from the VA to receive Social Security benefits quicker than the prolonged waiting period now in place. The legislation, currently has 37 cosponsors and has been referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.. “If you’re a veteran and you’re deemed 100% disabled ... the Social Security Administration still makes you go through a lengthy process,” said Pia Carusone, a spokeswoman for Sarbanes. “If the VA says you’re 100% disabled, the Social Security needs to agree with that, and expedite the process.”
Additionally, Sarbanes offered an amendment to the Generations Invigorating Volunteering and Education Act (H.R.2857) or GIVE Act, that seeks to support our nations veterans and veterans service organizations. The National Conversation on Veterans and Community Service amendment was accepted by a unanimous vote in the final mark up of the GIVE Act and passed by the Education and Labor Committee. The Sarbanes’ amendment would require:

1.) The Corporation for National and Community Service, in conjunction with Veterans Service Organizations, the Department of Veterans Affairs, State Veterans Agencies, the Department of Defense and other organizations deemed appropriate by the Corporation, to initiate a “National Conversation”. It would identify:
- specific areas of need for veterans.
- how existing volunteer corps and programs could better serve veterans.
- gaps in service to veterans.
- prospects for better coordination of services.
- prospects for better utilization of veterans as resources and volunteers.

2.) A report on the results of the conversation, together with a plan for a pilot program using promising strategies and approaches for better serving and utilizing the talents of veterans, which would be transmitted to Congress not later than one year following the date of enactment of this Act.
3.) Implementation of the pilot program based on the findings of the report above.

The GIVE Act was voted out of the Education and Labor Committee on 27 JUN by a vote of 46-0 and will reach the House floor for passage in the coming weeks. [Source: Rep. John Sarbanes Press Release 11 Jul 07 ++]


VA HOMELESS VETS UPDATE 05: Homeless veterans in 37 states will get more assistance, thanks to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) selection of 92 community organizations to receive funds for transitional housing this year. VA has identified the public and community non-profit groups eligible to receive payments for housing and supportive services to homeless veterans through three VA programs:

* Fifty-three organizations will receive $10 million to provide about 1,000 transitional housing beds under VA’s per diem program;
* Thirty-six groups will receive $12 million for programs for homeless veterans who are seriously mentally, women, including women with children, frail elderly or terminally ill;
* Three organizations will receive about $2 million for various technical assistance projects.

The grants are part of VA’s continuing efforts to reduce homelessness among veterans. VA has the largest integrated network of homeless assistance programs in the country. In many cities and rural areas, VA social workers and other clinicians working with community and faith-based partners conduct extensive outreach programs, clinical assessments, medical treatments, alcohol and drug abuse counseling and employment assistance. Much work remains to be done, but the partnership effort is making significant progress. Today, it is estimated that fewer than 200,000 veterans may be homeless on an average night, which represents a 20% reduction during the past six years. For more info about VA’s homeless programs refer to http://www.va.gov/homeless. [Source: VA News Release 11 Jul 07 ++]


TUITION AID FOR RC: The federal GI Bill has provided education benefits to veterans since 1944. Under the current program full-time servicemembers get up to $37,500 (not including $1,200 they must pay in). It can be used for up to 10 years after they leave the military. The Reserve contingent (RC) National Guard and Reserve get $11,124 (with increases for consecutive service of 90 days or more). It can be used only while in the Guard and Reserve. A growing number of states are cutting college tuition for recent veterans in a show of gratitude, but also in some cases to fill gaps in the federal GI Bill. Though most of the state laws honor veterans for their sacrifices, some also address disparities between the treatment of members of the regular military (Army, Navy, Marines and Air Force) and of RC troops, over whom states have jurisdiction. Today, every state offers some sort of tuition benefit for members of its National Guard units. With about 240,000 more Guard members (many of them college students) deployed to combat zones since 9/11, many state legislators are looking for ways to help them and other recent veterans. State benefits typically are available only to those attending state-supported institutions and who meet certain academic requirements. Following are highlights of recent developments for the RC:

Alabama - No tuition breaks for veterans, but since 2003, tuition has been waived for spouses and children of National Guard members called to active duty in Iraq.
Alaska - A bill enacted this year is designed to ensure that a tuition waiver program for Guard members is fully funded.
Arizona - A tuition waiver for widows and children under 30 of U.S. soldiers killed in the line of duty goes into effect Sept. 9. A tuition proposal this year that would have benefited current or former Guard members who have received a Purple Heart since 9/11 did not pass.
Arkansas - A 2005 resolution encourages state schools to participate in a partial tuition waiver for Guard members. Under federal law, state Guard members can have 75% of their tuition waived at a state-sponsored institution. Schools that choose to participate cover the remaining 25%.
California - California doesn't reduce or eliminate tuition or fees for veterans in state-supported colleges. A pending bill would waive resident fees for Californians after they leave active duty and exhaust federal GI Bill benefits. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and the democratically controlled Legislature currently are at odds over his proposal for a $1.7 million college-fees assistance program for National Guard members to aid recruitment and retention.
Colorado - A law this month makes members of the armed forces and their dependents eligible for in-state tuition if the member gets stationed in Colorado . A proposal that did not pass would have allowed schools to seek reimbursement from the state for refunds given to activated military personnel.
Connecticut - The state has waived tuition for veterans since 1974; legislation did not pass this year that would have expanded the benefits to include fees.
Delaware - No legislation has been introduced or passed that would waive or reduce tuition for recent veterans enrolled in state-supported colleges or universities.
Florida - Proposals this year that would have required state universities and community colleges to waive a percentage of the in-state tuition rate for veterans did not pass. Last year, Purple Heart veterans became eligible for tuition waivers.
Georgia - In 2005, the state passed the HERO (Helping Educate Reservists and their Offspring) Scholarship for Guard and Reservists who, as of May 3, 2003, served in a combat zone.
Hawaii - Bills to waive tuition for Hawaii National Guard members to attend state schools have been introduced nearly every year for the last few years, but none have passed.
Idaho - A 2004 law says Guard members called up for duty beyond training for 30 days or more will have lost tuition refunded.
Illinois - Veterans have generally been given a free ride at state schools since 1920, but state funding in recent years has come up short. A proposal this year would ensure colleges that absorb the cost get reimbursed by the state.
Indiana - Legislation this year that would have provided free tuition to state universities for Indiana National Guard members called to active duty since Sept. 10, 2001, died.
Iowa - The state last year expanded a longstanding War Orphans Fund to include dependents of soldiers killed in action in a combat zone after 9/11.
Kansas - The state Legislature this year for the first time appropriated $250,000 for scholarships for Kansans who served in Iraq or Afghanistan for at least 90 days after 9/11. The Kansas Board of Regents plans to distribute the funds on a first-come, first-served basis.
Kentucky - Tuition waivers for children and spouses of disabled and deceased National Guard and armed forces members were changed this year to increase the age of eligible children from 23 to 26 and to extend waivers from 36 to 45 months.
Louisiana - No new tuition legislation was introduced in 2007. A 2005 law exempts some Guard members from all or part of tuition imposed by certain Louisiana public institutions.
Maine - A bill introduced in the 2007 session that would have established a tuition waiver for veterans did not pass.
Maryland - The Legislature created a scholarship for veterans who fought in Iraq or Afghanistan since 9/11, and funded it this year at $500,000. Available to eligible applicants on a first-come, first-served basis, it has been offered to at least 67 veterans and 41 dependents.
Massachusetts - The state waives tuition, but not fees, for all veterans. Fees were waived for the first time last year for Guard members. A fee waiver for all veterans was reintroduced this year. Fees can represent up to 75% of college costs.
Michigan - A pending proposal would waive tuition for recent veterans and the families of soldiers killed in action. Since 2005, Michigan has had tuition grants for the children of veterans who are killed, missing in action or are permanently disabled.
Minnesota - Veterans attending public or private colleges in the state who served in the armed forces on or after 9/11, and who have exhausted other federal and state benefits, can be reimbursed $1,000 per semester up to $10,000 under a law that took effect this month. This also applies to Minnesota National Guard members with five years or more of service and surviving spouses and children of those who died serving in the military on or after 9/11. The state allocated $52,000 to extend education benefits to spouses, as well as children, of soldiers killed in action.
Mississippi - A handful of bills were introduced this past session, which ended in the spring. One passed; it expands tuition assistance for National Guard members to include room and board. No new funds were appropriated.
Missouri - In April, lawmakers debated but ultimately failed to approve a bill that would give combat veterans a 75% reduction in credit-hour costs. The bill may have failed because of high revenue losses that state universities likely would see. The University of Missouri, for example, projected a $1.3 million tuition shortfall if the bill had passed. The second-largest public university, Missouri State University, projected an $850,000 tuition shortfall, with no state money earmarked to make up the difference.
Montana - The state since 1989 allows state colleges and universities to waive tuition for veterans. That program was expanded in 1997 to include waivers for National Guard members.
Nebraska - No new legislation regarding tuition assistance for veterans or Guard members was introduced this year. In 2005, a bill was enacted that changed the tuition waiver for Guard members from 50% to 100%. Tuition has long been waived for dependents of veterans killed in combat.
Nevada - Lawmakers in 2005 made permanent 2003 legislation guaranteeing free tuition at state universities and colleges for Nevada National Guard members, including recruits. Lawmakers also approved legislation to reimburse Guard members for textbook expenses.
New Hampshire - A bill effective July 1 establishes a tuition voucher program for Guard members and changes the source of funding of Guard tuition assistance from schools to the state.
New Jersey - In January, a law passed that extended eligibility for tuition to former members of the New Jersey National Guard and increased the number of tuition-free credits available to Guard members and dependents. It extends the eligibility to 16 credits per semester and allows Guard members whose education was interrupted by their duty to continue to receive the free tuition benefit following discharge for one semester or a period of time equal to their length of deployment, whichever is longer. In the event of medical discharge as a result of illness or combat injury, a Guard member who was enrolled in a degree program can continue to receive the free tuition benefit through completion or for five years. Last year, New Jersey prohibited public colleges and universities from imposing non-resident tuition fees on members of the state Guard and their surviving children or spouses if the member was killed in the line of duty.
New Mexico - Legislation that was introduced this year but did not pass would have extended a scholarship for Vietnam veterans to include recent veterans. Certain dependents of combat veterans are eligible for full tuition waivers.
New York - Several bills that would have increased tuition awards for veterans died in the New York Legislature. Currently, veterans are eligible for awards of $1,000 per semester for full-time study or $500 per semester for part-time study.
North Carolina - Lawmakers this year proposed helping National Guard members pay off their student loans. It would be another expansion of the state's tuition assistance program for the Guard, following changes in 2005 that raised the maximum tuition payment and provided money for buying textbooks. The tuition breaks, funded out of the state budget, help students at public and private colleges. Another recent change in tuition laws has allowed active-duty military personnel stationed in North Carolina, and their dependents, to take advantage of in-state tuition rates at public universities. Lawmakers this year have proposed expanding that benefit to all Defense Department employees, which would mean universities would lose revenue.
North Dakota - A 2005 law waives tuition for dependents of deceased veterans. A bill passed this year extends Guard tuition assistance to include all accredited post-secondary schools.
Ohio - No tuition-related laws passed recently to benefit recent veterans; a 2004 law requires public and private colleges to grant leave to students called to active duty and either refund or offer credit for tuition paid. Also in 2004, legislators expanded eligibility for a 25-year-old Ohio War Orphans Scholarship Program to include Iraq veterans' families.
Oklahoma - No tuition assistance is offered to combat veterans. A bill currently pending would require the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education to provide a tuition grant program for National Guard members taking graduate or professional courses.
Oregon - Under a proposal passed this year and expected to take effect this fall, resident student-veterans would receive up to $150 a month for up to 36 months. The aid could be used only after the student had exhausted federal GI Bill benefits.
Pennsylvania - A state agency extended the eligibility period for the Armed Forces Loan Forgiveness Program to the end of this year. The program forgives loans of up to $2,500 for veterans who haven't defaulted and who were on active duty between 9/11 and Dec. 31, 2007.
Rhode Island - While colleges are given state-appropriated money for Guard members, there has been little legislative action for combat veterans or their dependents. In 2005, a bill failed that would have given military Reserve members the same tuition assistance that is now offered to Guard members.
South Carolina - In South Carolina, Gov. Mark Sanford last month signed into law a bill that will offer members of the National Guard free tuition at state-supported colleges and universities and some private institutions. Another bill that would provide tuition assistance for full-time military veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan was introduced and is expected to go forward next year. The state also offers free tuition to the children of veterans who were killed, wounded or are missing in action. The new National Guard tuition program pays all tuition and fees up to $18,000. The Legislature appropriated $1.3 million for tuition grants for that program and another $1.7 million for a program that pays student loans for Guard members.
South Dakota - No legislation was introduced in 2007 pertaining to special tuition rates for veterans. But there were several laws passed in 2006 and 2004 that improved educational access for military members and their families:
Tennessee - The state this year will begin freezing college tuition for members of the Reserves or the National Guard if they are mobilized for at least six months of active duty. The law went into effect on June 25. Under this law, if a Reservist or Guard member is enrolled at a state school at the time their status changes to active duty, all school fees will be frozen at the rate when they departed school. The University of Tennessee system this August will increase tuition 6%. Upon their return, fees would not increase for a time period equal to one year plus the amount of time served on active duty. The offer is good only for servicemembers who complete their military obligations under honorable conditions and who re-enroll in a state school within six months from release of active duty.
Texas - Congress tweaked its 84-year-old tuition exemption so that veterans can use both the federal GI Bill and the state exemption in the same semester.
Utah - A law this year waives undergraduate tuition at state institutions of higher education for surviving dependents of Utah resident military members killed while serving in federal active duty.
Vermont - The 2004 Armed Services Scholarship expanded an existing benefit for children of National Guard members to also include Guard members, military veterans and spouses and children for both.
Virginia - The state this year created an in-state tuition benefit for active-duty servicemembers and for activated members of the National Guard and Reserve who are stationed in Virginia but are not Virginia residents.
Washington - Colleges are not required to waive tuition, but because waivers are available, legislation enacted last year directs state colleges and universities to take steps that would help them identify and assist veterans who need financial aid. Beginning this month, tuition and fees will be waived for dependents of combat veterans who are totally disabled, reported missing or killed in combat.
West Virginia - Beginning this month, tuition is waived for honorably discharged veterans who earned a Purple Heart. Legislators also passed a bill that covers tuition costs for active-duty National Guard members pursuing a master's degree.
Wisconsin - In 2006, Wisconsin passed legislation that waived 100% of tuition for veterans, up from a 50% waiver, enacted in 2005. But as the program's costs balloon, some lawmakers want to stop funding graduate school tuition and create a 10-year limit for claiming benefits.
Wyoming - Since 2006, Wyoming has had free tuition for overseas combat veterans, as well as widows, and orphans of deceased veterans. The state reimburses the schools for waiving tuition.
[Source: USA Today article 10 Jul 07 ++]

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