Special Notice from Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System

March 30, 2021

Mask requirement remains in effect at CAVHS

The Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, per the Veterans Health Administration policy and CDC recommendations, will continue requiring mask wear at all CAVHS facilities, including Community Based Outpatient Clinics. To protect Veteran, caregivers, and our staff, CAVHS requires everyone entering our facilities to wear a mask that covers their mouth and nose.  If a Veteran, family member, or caregiver does not have a mask, one will be provided. CAVHS will continue to observe all COVID-19 precautions including social distancing, encouraging hand washing or use of hand sanitizer, and protections for our staff.

SAVE LIVES Act implementation set for May 1 - CAVHS ready

On March 24, 2021, the president signed into law H.R. 1276, the "Strengthening and Amplifying Vaccination Efforts to Locally Immunize All Veterans and Every Spouse (SAVE LIVES) Act, which expands VA's authority to provide COVID-19 vaccinations.

The VA will be implementing the Act on May 1.  Some VA Medical Centers are participating in a pilot program.  Vaccine availability will depend on supply levels.  The Keep Me Informed tool will be used as the main hub for Veterans, spouses, caregivers and beneficiaries to sign up for news about availability from local facilities.

Under the bill, covered individuals are:

• Veterans who are not eligible to enroll in the VA healthcare system, meaning a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable.
  • VA will interpret this as any discharge status other than dishonorable or bad conduct can be vaccinated.
• Veterans who are eligible for care under the Foreign Medical Program (see 38 U.S.C. 1724).
• Survivors and Dependents of Certain Veterans under the CHAMPVA Program as defined in 38 U.S.C. 1781.
• Family Caregivers of Veterans participating in the VA’s Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers under 38 U.S.C. 1720G(a).
• Caregivers of Veterans participating in VA’s Program of General Caregiver Support Services under 38 U.S.C. 1720G(b).
• Caregivers of Veterans participating in the Medical Foster Home Program, Bowel and Bladder Program, Home Based Primary Care Program, or Veteran Directed Care Program of the VA.
• Spouses of Veterans.

CAVHS will announce our participation in the program on our social media sites, and to state-wide media.  It’s important for you to know that vaccine availability depends on supply and we are required to continue to prioritize vaccinations for Veterans enrolled in VA care.  We welcome all Veterans to apply for VA health care at https://va.gov/health-care.

VA is helping Veterans with co-pays during the pandemic

With the passage of the American Rescue Plan, there have been significant changes to how co-pays are handled.

• Copayments for medical care and pharmacy services between April 6, 2020, thru September 30, 2021 will be canceled.
• All co-payments paid to VA for medical care and pharmacy services for April 6, 2020 to present will be refunded.
• Veterans who will be receiving a refund will soon receive a letter with information on when the refund will be paid.

Smoothies are great for a quick, easy, and on-the-go breakfast or snack! Another great thing about smoothies is that you can pack a lot of nutrients in them. This smoothie features chocolate and peanut butter for a sweet treat. Greek yogurt, peanut butter, and edamame pack delicious, filling protein to help keep you satisfied. The addition of avocado gives some heart healthy Omega 3’s and a smooth, creamy texture as well as some fiber. The zucchini will also pack in nutrients and fiber. Some benefits of fiber include: aids in digestion, supports heart health, and can assist with weight control!

• 1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt (can use low fat, or non-fat)

• frozen banana, medium size

• 1 tbsp peanut butter

• 1 tbsp cocoa powder

• ½ avocado, medium size

• ½ zucchini, medium size

• ½ cup shelled edamame

Optional: add sweetener to taste, dark chocolate chips to throw on top

CAVHS Drive-through COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic at Fort Roots

The CAVHS Drive-thru COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic is now open at our North Little Rock Campus. Starting Monday, March 22, the drive-thru clinic will be open 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m., seven days per week for scheduled appointments. 

The drive-thru clinic can also accommodate Veterans who do not have an appointment until 2 p.m. Call 501-257-1978 or 1-888-257-1978 to schedule your appointment.