The Launch Readying Warriors and Caring For Heroes

Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center's Monthly Newsletter - Oct. 16, 2024

The Launch is the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center’s official monthly digital publication. The newsletter highlights the efforts of staff, patients and volunteers. It includes a message from leadership, highlights Lovell FHCC’s digital presence and promotes monthly events.

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Upcoming Events

My VA Health Informational Sessions

  • Monday, Oct. 21 from 9-10 a.m. at the Kenosha Community Based Outpatient Clinic (8207 22nd Ave., Kenosha, WI 53143)
  • Tuesday, Oct. 29 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Evanston Community Based Outpatient Clinic (1942 Dempster St., Evanston, IL 60202)
  • Our Connected Care Coordinators will host My VA Health patient portal informational sessions at the dates, times and locations listed above. Attend the in-person event(s) for help with the new portal. No RSVP is required.
  • If you’re unable to attend, but still have questions about the portal, contact the My VA Health Support Line at 888-444-6982. The support line is available 24/7, year-round.

Case Management Services Display

  • Case Management Week is Oct. 13-19. On Oct. 18, from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., the Case Management Services Team will provide resources and answer questions on the Quarterdeck (first floor) of the main hospital (3001 Green Bay Road North Chicago, IL 60064).
  • Case Management helps Veteran patients achieve goals and improve their quality of life. Lovell FHCC’s case managers increase access to services, improve patient outcomes, and provide an individualized approach to Veteran care.

DEA National Drug Take Back Day

  • DEA’s National Drug Take Back Day is Oct. 26. All patients, and members of the community are invited to dispose of unused or expired medications at the main hospital’s Outpatient Pharmacy blue disposal box.
  • Unused or expired prescription medications are a public safety issue, leading to accidental poisoning, overdose, and abuse. Unused drugs that are flushed can contaminate the water supply. Proper disposal of unused drugs saves lives and protects the environment.

Women’s Patient Tele-Town Hall

  • On Monday, Oct. 28, from 5-6 p.m., join our Women’s Patient Tele-Town Hall. The event is open to all women patients at the Lovell FHCC main hospital and community based outpatient clinics. There will be time to ask leadership questions.
  • A portion of our patient population will be called to participate in the Tele-Town Hall. If you would like to ensure you receive a call, or opt out of this event, and future events, send an email with your phone number to FHCC.Feedback@va.gov by Oct. 24.

Lung Cancer Screening Event

  • November is Lung Cancer Screening Month. On Nov. 12, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Lovell FHCC will host its Great American Smokeout & Lung Cancer Screening Health Fair on the Quarterdeck (first floor) of the main hospital (3001 Green Bay Road North Chicago, IL 60064).
  • Attend the event for same-day cancer screenings, tobacco cessation information and support and Whole Health resources.

A Message from Leadership...

Capt. Chad Roe, MSC, USN, Deputy Director Lovell FHCC, Commanding Officer Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) Great Lakes

Autumn is officially here, and the holidays and winter weather are right around the corner. As you prepare for the coming months, please consider receiving your flu shot to protect not only yourself, but those around you.

Prepare for flu season. You can receive a flu shot at your Primary Care, Women’s Health or Cardiology/Pulmonology appointments or via walk in on our main North Chicago campus. Our Evanston, Kenosha and McHenry Community Based Outpatient Clinics are also offering flu shots during Primary Care appointments and walk in.

On Saturday, Oct. 19, from 8 a.m. – noon the following locations will host a walk-in flu clinic for patients:

  • Primary Care and Women’s Health Clinics at the main hospital. This clinic is open to all patients.
  • 133EF Immunizations Clinic at the main hospital. This clinic is open to DoD/TRICARE beneficiaries.
  • Evanston Community Based Outpatient Clinic. Open to all Evanston CBOC patients.
  • McHenry Community Based Outpatient Clinic. Open to all McHenry CBOC patients.

There will be a final walk-in clinic for DoD beneficiaries on Oct. 26 at the main hospital from 8 a.m. – noon. Check out the “Immunizations” section below for more detailed information about times, dates and locations.

Veteran and military patients, and military family members, may also get free flu shots at participating pharmacies. It just takes a few minutes to look up where to go in your neighborhood.

Veterans can get a flu shot at a pharmacy in the VA network. Go to Find VA Locations | Veterans Affairs and pick “Community Pharmacies” in the Facility Type drop-down menu to find an in-network pharmacy by zip code.

DoD/TRICARE beneficiaries should visit the TRICARE Influenza Vaccination Page. Under “Participating Network Pharmacy” select “Search online” then “Find a pharmacy” and enter your zip code.

Celebrate milestones. We’re proud to announce that the exterior construction on our Fisher House is complete! On Oct. 2, our facility celebrated with a Topping Off ceremony hosted by Lovell FHCC, Fisher House Foundation and Friends of Fisher House – Illinois. During the ceremony, the final wooden beam was placed over the entryway of the home. At this time, we’re expecting the Fisher House to be complete in Spring 2025. We can’t wait to offer a ‘home away from home’ for the patients, family members and caregivers who need it. Learn more in the “Featured Story” section below.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month. October is recognized as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). Domestic Violence (DV) and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) are serious yet preventable public health challenges that disproportionately affect Veterans. The enduring theme “Building Relationship Health and Safety for Life,” recognizes and promotes the importance of healthy and safe relationships and emphasizes the importance of early intervention through engaging in routine, trauma-informed screening and assessment to offer patients experiencing IPV a safe place to find support when they are ready. To obtain information about IPV-related services, please reach out to our IPVAP Coordinator, Diana Johnson Grimmer.

My VA Health Patient Portal

The Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center (Lovell FHCC) implemented the Federal Electronic Health Record (FEHR) on March 9. The joint deployment ensures that all patients who visit the facility will receive care that is coordinated through a single, fully integrated Electronic Health Record system. The FEHR also improves the ability for VA and DoD to coordinate care and share data with each other and the rest of the U.S. health care system.

Patient Portal Information

Veterans who use My HealtheVet to manage their VA health care online, will now use the My VA Health patient portal for the care they receive at Lovell FHCC. To access the patient portal, use this link: https://patientportal.myhealth.va.gov/. On the homepage, users will be prompted to the portal through a verified Login.gov or ID.me account, a Premium DS Logon account, or a Premium My HealtheVet account. Click on one of those options and log into the system.

My VA Health can be used to:

  • View and cancel your VA health appointments
  • Refill and renew VA medications prescribed by your VA health care teams
  • Send secure messages to your VA health care teams
  • Access your current VA health records for care provided

View a demonstration of the My VA Health patient portal.

Update Email Address in VA.gov for Notifications

Veteran patients, the My VA Health patient portal now uses the email address in your VA.gov Profile for notifications, including new secure messages or updates to your health record.

Check your VA.gov Profile to confirm your preferred email address is on file.

STEP 1 - Sign in to view your VA.gov Profile.

STEP 2 - Navigate to your name in the top right corner and in the drop-down menu, select Profile.

STEP 3 - Update your contact information, if necessary.

If you need help, go to https://www.va.gov/resources/managing-your-vagov-profile/, or call 1-800-MyVA411 (800-698-2411) which is available 24/7.

Secure Messaging Step-by-Step Instructions

Navigating Secure Messaging in the My VA Health patient portal just got easier.

For step-by-step instructions and guidance, use this one-pager or 4-minute video.

Secure Messaging is a great way for Veterans to communicate with their health care teams and be more engaged with their care.

VA’s Upcoming Sign-In Changes

Changes to the VA’s sign-in options are coming. After Jan. 31, 2025, Veterans will only be able to sign in to VA.gov, VA patient portals, VA mobile apps and VA online services with Login.gov and ID.me usernames and passwords.

Your My VA Health patient portal isn’t going away, but the way you sign into it will change. If you do not already have a Login.gov or ID.me account, you’re encouraged to create one before the new year.

Login.gov is a government-provided account for accessing VA and other government services. ID.me is a private account provider that partners with government and non-government organizations. Both options meet modern security standards, protecting your data and providing access to VA and other government services.

Learn more by reviewing VA’s flyer explaining the changes. Steps detailing how to create Login.gov and ID.me accounts, verify your identity, etc. can be found on the VA’s website. If you have questions, please utilize the contact information listed in the next section.

Resources for Help

If you have questions about the My VA Health patient portal, the My VA Health support line is available 24/7, year-round. Call 888-444-6982.

You can also reach out to our My VA Health Coordinators at 847-688-1900 ext. 68281 or email them at vhanchfhcclovellmyvahealthgov@va.gov. The coordinators can be reached through Secure Messaging in the My VA Health patient portal as well. Select “FHCC Ask A Connected Care Coordinator” in the drop-down to message them directly.

If you prefer to receive help in person, the main hospital in North Chicago has volunteers who can assist you. Their desk is near the Primary Care Clinic on the Quarterdeck (first floor). Volunteers are normally available Monday–Friday from 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. The McHenry Community Based Outpatient Clinic also has a My VA Health volunteer who can assist you Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Find more information about the My VA Health patient portal on our website.

Immunizations

Flu Shots

Respiratory illness season is upon us. We want to make sure every patient who wants to be protected against flu, COVID and RSV has the opportunity to receive immunizations. Below, find the locations, dates and times you can receive flu, COVID and RSV shots:

All Patients

Main Hospital, Primary Care and Women’s Health Clinics

  • Patients can receive flu, COVID and/or RSV shots during their Primary Care or Women’s Health appointment
  • Patients can receive flu, COVID and/or RSV shots via walk-in at either clinic
  • A walk-in flu shot clinic will take place Saturday, Oct. 19 from 8 a.m. - noon

Main Hospital, Cardiology/Pulmonology Clinic

  • Patients can receive a flu, COVID and/or RSV shot during their Cardiology/Pulmonology appointment

DoD/TRICARE Beneficiaries Only

Main Hospital, 133EF Immunizations Clinic

  • Patients can receive the flu, COVID and/or RSV shot via appointment or walk-in, Monday-Wednesday and Fridays from 7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. (closed daily from noon – 1 p.m.) and Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. – noon. For appointments, call 1-800-941-4501
  • Walk-in flu shot clinics will take place on Saturdays, Oct. 19 and 26 from 8 a.m. – noon

BHC 237

  • Walk-ins will be available after Thanksgiving Day

Community Based Outpatient Clinic Patients

Evanston CBOC

  • Patients can receive a flu, COVID and/or RSV shot during their Primary Care appointment
  • Walk-ins for flu, COVID and/or RSV shots are available Mondays and Thursdays from 1-3 p.m.
  • A walk-in flu shot clinic will take place on Saturday, Oct. 19 from 8 a.m. – noon
  • Contact the Evanston CBOC at 224-610-2447

Kenosha CBOC

  • Patients can receive a flu, COVID and/or RSV shot during their Primary Care appointment
  • Walk-ins for flu, COVID and/or RSV shots are available Fridays from 8:15-11 a.m.
  • Contact the Kenosha CBOC at 262-653-9286, option 2

McHenry CBOC

  • Patients can receive a flu, COVID and/or RSV shot during their Primary Care appointment
  • Walk-ins for flu, COVID and/or RSV shots are available Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-3 p.m.
  • A walk-in flu shot clinic will take place on Saturday, Oct. 19 from 8 a.m. – noon

Veteran and military patients, and military family members, may also get free flu shots at participating pharmacies. It just takes a few minutes to look up where to go in your neighborhood.

Veterans can get a flu shot at a pharmacy in the VA network. Go to Find VA Locations on the VA's website. Select “Community Pharmacies” in the Facility Type drop-down menu to find an in-network pharmacy by zip code.

DoD/TRICARE beneficiaries should visit the TRICARE Influenza Vaccination Page. Under “Participating Network Pharmacy” select “Search online” then “Find a pharmacy” and enter your zip code.

Mpox Information

Are you at risk for Mpox? Mpox is mainly spread between people through direct skin to skin contact with infectious sores, scabs, or body fluids. The disease is caused by a virus in the same family as the virus that causes smallpox.

Patients are encouraged to talk to their primary care provider about their eligibility for an Mpox vaccine. If you're eligible, call the following numbers to schedule a vaccine appointment:

  • VA beneficiaries - 224-610-3899
  • TRICARE beneficiaries - 800-941-4501
  • Active Duty - 224-610-8555 ext. 69072

More information about Mpox can be found on the CDC's website. Links: About Mpox and What to do if you are sick.

Need to Know Info

Patient Masking Requirements

As a reminder, masking is still required in certain high-risk areas of the hospital. If you are visiting the Community Living Center space, Emergency Department, chemotherapy or dialysis areas, please wear a mask to prevent infection for fellow patients and hospital staff.

Illinois to move to TRICARE West Region

On Jan. 1, 2025, 1.5 million beneficiaries across six states (Arkansas, Illinois, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas and Wisconsin are moving from TRICARE East to TRICARE West and getting a new contractor, TriWest. A letter has been sent to beneficiaries in these six states.

Humana Military will continue to be Illinois beneficiaries’ TRICARE contractor until Dec. 31, 2024. Beneficiaries are encouraged to check their DEERS account to confirm all their information is up to date before the end of the year.

After Nov. 2, 2024, TRICARE beneficiaries should also:

  • Create an account on the TriWest patient portal.
  • Update payment information with TriWest. This will help make sure they can make payments to TriWest (if applicable) starting Jan. 1, 2025. (Note: If they pay by allotment, they don’t need to do this. Allotment payments will transfer automatically.)
  • Search for providers in the new TriWest provider network directory. They’ll find the directory on the patient portal.
  • Take any actions for TRICARE Open Season through TriWest.

Additional Resources:

Hispanic Heritage Month

During Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15-Oct. 15), we proudly celebrate Americans of Hispanic and Latino descent!

Hispanic Americans are critical to the fabric of our Armed Forces, VA and the entire country, representing strong values, rich heritages and a diversity that has made the U.S. a vibrant, thriving nation.

Hispanic Heritage Month holds particular significance at the VA and military medical community. Hispanic American work throughout the both the Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense in so many different roles: doctors, nurses, hospital corpsmen, therapists, attorneys, claims examiners, specialists and many more. They have earned our commitment for their work on behalf of Veterans and military members and their families every day of the year. Serving alongside them is an honor.

In so many ways, Hispanic and Latino Americans make this country thrive. We celebrate Hispanic and Latino colleagues, military members, Veterans, patients, family members and caregivers, and the wonderful contributions they make, and have made, to our nation, not just during Hispanic Heritage Month, but every day.

Native American Co-Pay Exemptions

American Indian/Alaska Native Veterans no longer have a copayment when receiving VA health care and are eligible for retroactive refunds for copayments for VA health care services (inpatient, outpatient, urgent care, and prescriptions) provided on or after January 5, 2022. Veterans can apply for the copayment exemption by completing three steps. Learn about eligibility, covered services and applying for exemption on the VA’s Copay exemptions for American Indian and Alaska Native Veterans webpage.

The copayment exemption honors treaties with sovereign nations, addresses health care access and health care disparities, provides more health care options, and continues VA’s efforts to strengthen and build trust.

Copayments for domiciliary care, institutional respite care, institutional geriatric evaluation, and nursing home care are still required.

Feature Stories

100th Fisher House Under Construction at Lovell Federal Health Care Center

The "last beam" of the 100th Fisher House, at Lovell Federal Health Care Center in North Chicago, Ill., was placed and celebrated during an event Oct. 2. During the Topping Off ceremony in the home's parking lot, audience members were able to watch a live feed of the beam being lowered into place. The home is set to open in the spring of 2025 and provide free lodging and support for families/caregivers of military and Veteran patients hospitalized for extended time periods.

On Oct. 2, Fisher House Foundation and the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center (Lovell FHCC) celebrated construction progress on the new Fisher House in North Chicago, Illinois during a “Topping Off Ceremony.” The ceremony, hosted by Lovell FHCC Director Dr. Robert Buckley and President of Fisher House Foundation David A. Coker, marked a pivotal moment of the building process as the final beam was placed over the entrance of the new Fisher House that is currently under construction.

Scheduled for completion in 2025, this new Fisher House will be the 100th Fisher House in a network that serves military and Veteran families across the country and overseas. Lovell FHCC is the nation’s only fully integrated Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility making this the first Fisher House with the mission to support both military families and Veteran families.

The more than 14,000 sq. ft. Fisher House will provide lodging for families of Veterans and military members at no cost, allowing them to be close to their loved ones at the most stressful times, while they are receiving medical care. At full occupancy, it can save military and Veteran families more than 1.3 million dollars each year, but more importantly, the new Fisher House will allow patients to receive care they could not readily access in the past without a place for their loved ones to stay.

“Lovell FHCC is honored to have the 100th Fisher House, and we are thrilled to be at this point in the construc􀆟on progress,” said Buckley. “The Fisher House will be a ‘home away from home’ for the family members and caregivers who use it. We are looking forward to offering this expanded service, which greatly compliments our sacred mission of ‘Readying Warriors and Caring for Heroes’.”

"Fisher House Foundation is excited to reach this milestone of 100 Fisher Houses at such an important location that uniquely serves both the military and the Veteran communities,” said Coker. “We are grateful to the many partners who have joined us to show the deep respect we have for those who serve and the enduring commitment we have to those that no longer wear the uniform through the Fisher House at Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center, North Chicago.”

The new Fisher House at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center will have 16 accessible suites, a spacious kitchen, large communal living, dining and family rooms, a laundry room, and a shared patio. The home will be gifted to the center upon completion as part of the public-private partnership between Fisher House Foundation, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Fisher House Foundation proudly recognizes the generosity of the following contributors for their extraordinary support of our military and Veteran families: 84 Lumber; CDR Paul M. Guetter, USN (Ret) and Tracy Anne Guetter; Combined Insurance, a Chubb company; Enterprise Mobility Foundation; Floor & Decor; Friends of Fisher House Illinois; The HPB Foundation; Men's Wearhouse; Mie (Shibukawa) Duncan and SGM Donald Duncan, USA (RET); Pritzker Military Foundation on behalf of the Pritzker Military Museum & Library; Sevan Charitable Foundation; Vehicles for Veterans; The Wohlers Family Foundation, and the many gifts of a grateful nation.

See more pictures from the ceremony on our Facebook page.

Veteran Patients Practice their Swing on their Journey to Recovery

Veteran Christian Arnedo swings his golf club during RevelationGolf’s Veterans Golf Day on Sept. 4, 2024, hosted at Veterans Memorial Golf Course in North Chicago. Arnedo participates in weekly golf recreational therapy as part of the Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center.

In the game of golf, the term “recovery” refers to playing a shot from a difficult situation. In many ways, the double meaning describes the experiences and treatment for inpatient Veterans at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center (Lovell FHCC).

On Sept. 4, 2024, Veterans receiving care in the Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program at Lovell FHCC teed off in RevelationGolf’s 12th annual Veterans Day Golf Tournament, held at Veterans Memorial Golf Course in North Chicago.

The event started with hamburgers and hotdogs, followed by a shotgun start on the course, and a longest putt competition, before concluding with cupcakes and awards.

RevelationGolf, a not-for-profit organization partnered with the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs, not only organizes the Veterans Day Golf Tournament for participating Lovell FHCC patients, but also runs the year-round Veterans Golf Program. The program provides weekly golf lessons to Lovell FHCC patients receiving inpatient mental health treatment and support related to PTSD, homelessness and addiction. Specially trained PGA and LPGA professionals and clinicians provide instruction to the patients.

“The biggest thing I see week to week is healing,” said Donna Strum, RevelationGolf’s co-founder and executive director. “We provide encouragement to the Veterans each week. They grow their social skills, create small achievable goals, and refocus from trauma. They’ve gone through the treatment for addiction and underlying stressors, but this program gives them an additional outlet to use as a form of recovery.”

Participation in the Veterans Golf Program for qualifying patients is completely voluntary. Veterans may take lessons for one to six weeks or longer if they take part in consecutive inpatient programs. Regardless of length, the program allows patients to practice new leisure activities, improve their game, build self-esteem and bond with fellow Veterans.

“Recreation therapy parallels life,” said Mental Health Inpatient Recreation Therapist Ryan Dollins. “Learning a new skill can bring frustrations, enjoyment and successfully completed goals. Recreation allows people to be in a less chaotic environment and work through issues that mirror what’s going on in their lives. Golf can keep patients from using again and away other dangerous behaviors.”

In some cases, Veteran patients are going through inpatient treatment for a second or third time. Patients may re-enter available programs because their life circumstances have changed since their initial treatment. Because of their past experiences, they know where to get the help and resources they need.

Christian Arnedo, an Army Veteran who deployed to Afghanistan in 2012 is currently receiving inpatient treatment for the second time.

“This program has offered me coping skills and recovery in all forms – psycho, social and environmental,” said Arnedo. “I learned these things in my previous treatment, but I wasn’t applying them. I’m more goal-oriented now. I learned the skills before, but now I have the desire to implement them.”

Arnedo played indoor golf and putted in the Chicago area as a child but said learning the importance of form and how it affects your golf game has been valuable. Noting that the golf professionals teach the patients very well.

“I live alone and I’m finishing school, but I need something positive to do outside of that,” said Arnedo. “I’m able to afford to do this, so I want to continue to play golf outside of this program and continue to develop this skill set.”

Before the Veterans began playing on Sept. 4, instructors and therapists reminded participants to, “play on your honor” during the game. Throughout the tournament, leaders and patients alike could be heard reminding themselves and others to pay attention, remain calm or be patient. Feedback was coupled with jokes, high-fives and encouraging words amongst the players.

“[Part of the reason I chose this inpatient program] is that it caters to Veterans,” said a participant who wished to remain anonymous. The patient is an Army Veteran who deployed to Afghanistan twice and is currently in the PTSD treatment program. “I get to be with other former servicemembers who experienced similar trauma to me and have been in similar places as me. Relating with others is really important in recovery. I plan to keep in touch with some of the other patients after we are discharged to help keep each other supported.”

Through the weekly program, the patient is learning how to relax better and enjoy social outings.

“[The golf program] has helped me learn to relax more and I’m learning patience,” they said. “When I first got out here, I was teed up and I wanted to get through so much material and make sure everything was done right. This teaches me to relax those tendencies. I’m not rushing through the game now.”

Beyond the tee boxes of Veterans Memorial Golf Course, the ultimate goal for patients participating in the golf program is to take the game and life skills practiced in a safe environment and use them for therapeutic and social purposes.

“We want them to take a positive interest in golf which they can take with them when they’re discharged,” said Strum. “The reasons behind the need for inpatient treatment often cause strained relationships with loved ones. Golf is something the Veterans can do with their family and friends. Golf opens doors to bonding.”

Link to story on Lovell FHCC’s website.

Let’s Get Social

FHCC has a presence on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). Below are the most popular social media posts from September.

Top Posts from September

VETANK Demonstration for Veterans and Families

Our Suicide Prevention Team hosted Veterans Path to Hope representatives who demonstrated AllenForce's VETANK program. Patients and staff test drove the heavy duty VETANK chair around the front lawn of Building 131.

The VETANK (Vet - Tank) program provides a network of all-terrain chairs for qualified Veterans and family members to borrow for free. Limited mobility can be isolating, but VETANK helps Veterans get back into social settings and activities they enjoy. The chairs enable independent participation in recreation activities. VETANKs can be used for hikes, fishing trips, beach days, community events, etc.

If you are interested in using VETANK for yourself, or a loved one, learn more on the AllenForce VETANK webpage. Call 779-205-3314 to reserve.

View more information and photos on our official Facebook page.

MCPON Visits Lovell FHCC for First Time

We were honored to host Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea for a visit recently. It was his first visit to Lovell FHCC. He stopped by the pharmacy, Pediatrics and other specialty clinics after a brief meeting with leaders.

The MCPON of the most senior enlisted member of the U.S. Navy. It is a unique position and rank, with a special pay grade above E-9. The MCPON is appointed by the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO).

View more information and photos on our official Facebook page.

First Telehealth Fair at Main Hospital

Our first Telehealth Fair was recently held at the main entrance to the Ambulatory Care Clinic, Bldg. 133EF. We shared information with patients and visitors about the many telehealth services available to them.

Telehealth and virtual offerings include Audiology, cardiology, dermatology, MOVE! Exercise Program, Diabetes Self-Management Education, Nephrology, Rehab, Smoking Cessation, TeleEye, VA Video Connect individual and group classes, Wound Care, Tele-Mental Health, VA Health Chat, and much more.

Talk to your doctor about telehealth possibilities, or call the national Telehealth Technology Help Desk, 866-651-3180 or 703-234-4483. Or visit www.telehealth.va.gov for more information.

See more photos and information on our official Facebook page.

Whole Health

October is Person-Centered Care Month, and Whole Health offers many ways you can center yourself. Whole Health is about what matters to you, not what is the matter with you. It represents a shift away from disease-focused care and toward care based on your values and aspirations. It may include self-care strategies and complementary therapies such as meditation, medical massage therapy and yoga, along with your conventional medical care. Learn more to Live Whole Health. Learn more about the Whole Health basics by watching the Introduction to Whole Health video. Learn more about beginning your Whole Health journey and available resources on the VA's website.

Pharmacogenomics (PGx)

The VA offers genetic testing for current VA patients at no cost. Genetic testing finds differences in genes that are related to health conditions. The genetic test looks for changes in your genetic make-up (DNA) that are linked to certain conditions, physical traits, disease risk or how you respond to certain things, like medication. The pharmacogenomics (PGx) genetic test uses your DNA – in combination with your medical history – to help your doctor determine treatments that may work better for you. This test only provides information about your response to medicine. Learn more by watching this video from the VA’s National Pharmacogenomics (PGx) Program. If you are interested in getting tested, please contact your VA primary care provider.

Awards

Integrated Staff Awards Ceremony

Our September integrated staff awards ceremony recognized 21 Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) Great Lakes Sailors and Lovell Federal Health Care Center civilian staff members!

Lovell FHCC Director Dr. Robert Buckley and NMRTC Great Lakes Commanding Officer Capt. Chad Roe presented the awards.

Congratulations to the following Sailors and civilians!

  • Cmdr. Bruce Matchin
  • Capt. Roger Thompson
  • Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class (HM3) Esai Martinez
  • HM2 Vanessa Floridaromero
  • Rene Kirklin
  • John Bozovich
  • Kristina Stolzenburg
  • Marcin Pazden
  • Lauren Porter
  • Josephine Galang
  • Cheryl Liszka
  • Eleonora Funk
  • Alla Nazarov
  • Lyudmyla Gofman
  • Aeman Choudhury
  • Jacqueline Cabbiness
  • Melanie Jaque-Canlas
  • Roseann Conway
  • Wanda Anderson
  • Johnnie Young
  • Doris Freeman

See more photos on our official Facebook page.

Factual Accuracy and Disclaimer:

Accuracy is important to us. If you believe an error has been made, email FHCC Communications at FHCC.Feedback@va.gov. Use of social media does not imply endorsement on the part of the Department of Defense or the Department of Veterans Affairs. Social media sites may not be available from all government servers. Posts on social media sites are not edited for accuracy and may not necessarily reflect the views of the federal government.