Birmingham VA: Message from the Executive Director

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Dear Veterans and Friends,

I apologize for the interruption. Yesterday we shared an incorrect telephone number. 

The 1-800-MyVA411 was missing the last digit. I intend to ensure the Veterans we serve receive the correct information. 

I would like to update you on a few steps the Birmingham VA Health Care System is taking to improve your experience with us.

Last month, the historic PACT Act was signed into law. This law expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances, and helps us provide generations of Veterans, and their survivors, with the care and benefits they’ve earned and deserve.

I encourage all Veterans and survivors to visit www.va.gov/PACT or call 1-800-MyVA411 (1-800-698-2411) to learn more about what this bill means for you and your family. The PACT Act is a great step forward for Veterans and VA. Our mission is to serve Veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors as well as they have served us, and this legislation will help us do exactly that.

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and I want you to know that you don’t have to solve life’s challenges alone. Day-to-day issues with finances, jobs, housing and relationships can be stressful, and it’s important to get help before your problems feel overwhelming. Don’t wait. Reach out. If you or a Veteran you know needs support, visit VA.gov/REACH. Suicide is preventable, and we all have a role to play. Help us spread the word with “Don’t Wait. Reach Out.” 

New Veterans Crisis Line Number 

The Veterans Crisis Line has a new number, but still offers you the same care and support. Dial 988 then Press 1, to reach trained responders who will provide confidential crisis support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

One of my top priorities as a health care professional is suicide prevention. If you’re a Veteran in a mental health crisis and you’re thinking of hurting yourself, please contact our crisis line right away. Our specially trained suicide prevention coordinators can help you get the counseling and services you need.

You can also visit our suicide prevention website to explore resources and build a network of support with community-based organizations.

Elevators Under Maintenance Through September

If you’ve visited our medical center or Birmingham VA Clinic recently, you may have noticed one or more of our elevators being closed for maintenance. We apologize for the inconvenience and understand the impact this may have. We are constantly addressing issues and making improvements on our facilities to provide you the best care possible. Our staff is on standby to assist you in getting to your appointment by other means if needed.

Use Your Smartphone to Check-In for Appointments

For your convenience, when you visit the Birmingham VA, you can now use your smartphone to check-in for appointments. Simply scan the QR code located on various posters, and TV screens throughout our facility.

Get Reimbursed Faster with BTSSS

Eligible Veterans can now get reimbursed for travel expenses faster with the Beneficiary Travel Self-Service System (BTSSS). This is an online, self-reporting system that eliminates delays created by paper forms and kiosks.

Upcoming Job Fair

Spread the word for our upcoming job fair happening September 24 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Birmingham VA East Clinic located at 7901 Crestwood Blvd., Irondale, AL 35210. This massive job fair will include on the spot job interviews and job offers. View the flyer below for additional information including open positions and what to bring. Get prepared and we'll see you there.

VA ranked #5 Best Employer in Alabama

I'm also happy to announce that the Department of Veterans Affairs is ranked as the fifth best employer in Alabama for the Forbes’ 2022 America’s Best Employers list. The Department of Veterans Affairs in Alabama is represented by Veterans Health Administration, Veterans Benefits Administration, and the National Cemetery Administration. As a part of the Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Health Administration, the Birmingham VA Health Care System employs over 3,000 staff members who serve more than 71,000 Veteran patients each year in Alabama. We are honored to be a part of this recognition.

New Shoals VA Clinic Groundbreaking

I am pleased to announce the groundbreaking of our new Shoals VA Clinic that took place on August 19, 2022. The new clinic opening is anticipated for Fall 2023. The new clinic will double the size of our current one, increasing from approximately 6,300 square feet to over 16,000 square feet. There will be 18 patient rooms for primary care, women's health, mental health, and three telehealth rooms. The expanded space will also allow us to offer audiology and optometry services to our Shoals area Veterans.

As we make enhancements to our facilities, equipment and staff, we keep in mind that every improvement is about providing world-class health care to you, our nation’s heroes.

It is an honor to serve you at the Birmingham VA Health Care System

Thank you for your support as we continue to improve the Veteran experience.

Sincerely,
Oladipo (Ladi) Kukoyi, MD, MS, VHA-CM 
Executive Director