Southern Arizona Veterans Health Update

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Southern Arizona VA Health Care System Health Update

Southern Arizona Veterans Health Update for Friday, May 23, 2025


VA News

VA Secure Sign In Changes

VA Single Sign In Graphic

Secure sign-in changes are here. VA is making these changes to meet modern security standards for protecting your personal data and help preventing scammers from stealing your benefits.

You can no longer use your My HealtheVet user ID and password to sign in to VA.gov, VA apps or any other online VA services. After Sept. 30, 2025, Veterans won’t be able to use your DS Logon username and password for VA online services.

Moving forward, you will have two sign-in options: a Login.gov account or ID.me account.

For new login assistance contact the Tucson VA Virtual Health Resource Center

Call (520) 629-1713 or email TucsonVHRC@va.gov

Login.gov Help Desk can be reached at (844) 875-6446 and ID.me Support assistance at (877) 327-0022, select Option 1 and then Option 1 again

Find out more information about how to create a Login.gov or ID.me account.


Up your health and fitness game with VA health apps

Two women looking at watch

Now is the time to try new ways of staying active. With VA’s virtual care resources, you have all the tools you need to support your goals—anytime, anywhere, right from your mobile devices.

Learn more about VA health and fitness apps 


local news

Monsoon Season Preparedness 

Monsoon Season

What you need to know to be safe this Monsoon Season: 

Floods

  • Get to high ground.
  • While driving- slow down.
  • Do not drive around barricaded areas.
  • Do not drive through flowing water

Lighting 

  • Stop outdoor activities and avoid dust storms
  • Keep away from open areas, tall structures, and bodies of water.
  • Contact with corded electrical equipment should be avoided.

Dust Storms

  • Stay indoors and avoid dust inhalation.
  • If caught in your vehicle, pull over, put car in park, turn off the lights, take foot off the break, and set emergency brake. 

Prepare for Fire Season

Fire season preparedness

Fire season preparedness- it's never too late to prepare - whether that is cleaning up around your property, gathering emergency supplies, and packing a 'go bag' in the event of an emergency.

Tips and tricks to prepare for fire season:

  • Remove flammable items from around your home, including propane tanks, BBQ grills, and patio furniture. 
  • Trim back trees and branches that may hang onto your roof.
  • Keep gutters and porches clear of vegetation and debris
  •  Always be ready - have necessary prescriptions, important documents, phone numbers, computers, pictures, credit cards, cash and pets. 

For more information on fire season preparedness visit Ready.gov wildfires webpage to learn more. 


Fraud Alert: Medical Identity Theft 

Fraud alert

The VA Office of Inspector General (OIG) and FBI seek your help to stop medical identity theft scams. 

Medical identity theft occurs when someone steals or uses our personal information to receive medical cere or submits fraudulent claims for payment to health insures with your authorization. Medical identity theft can be committed by anyone, including family members, caregivers, healthcare providers or pharmacy staff, telemarketers, and fraudsters. 

Submit complaints of Suspected Medical Identity Theft to the VA OIG or FBI

VA OIG 

   Online: va.gov/oig/hotline

     Phone: 1-800-488-8244 

FBI

Online: tips.fbi.gov

       Phone: 1-800-Call-FBI (1-800-225-5324) 


Tucson VA podiatric resident earns outstanding VA employee through the AVHOFS

Dr, Evensen earns outstanding employee with the AVHOFS

The Arizona Veterans Hall of Fame Society (AVHOFS) recently awarded Dr. Arthur Evensen, a podiatric surgical resident at the Tucson VA Medical Center as AVHOFS Outstanding VA Employee for his support and advocacy for the Veterans he serves. He is committed to shaping the future of Veteran healthcare through clinical research and compassionate care. 

Thank you, AVHOFS for recognizing our staff for the work they do on a daily basis supporting our Veterans!  Read more..


Air Force Veteran Donates Sahuarita History Book to Mayor

Air Force Veteran Jerry Rowe and his care team along with the mayor of Sahuarita

U.S. Air Force Veteran Jerry Rowe has immortalized the story of Sahuarita through the pages of his self-authored book. Rowe donated a copy of "A History of Sahuarita" to Mayor Tom Murphy, ensuring a treasured glimpse into the town's past will be preserved for future generations.

Read More..


SAVAHCS events

Safford Veteran Engagement and Townhall

Join us on Friday, June 27, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the American Legion Post 32 located at 531 South 11th Ave, Safford, AZ. The engagement townhall will provide Veterans with resources and assistance with eligibility and enrollment, whole health, suicide prevention, women’s health, and disability claims. For questions, email the SAVAHCS Public Affairs Office at pao.savahcs@va.gov.

Safford Veteran Engagement and Townhall

VA is here for you.

1-800-MyVA411 (1-800-698-2411) is always the right number

Veterans Crisis Line988 and press 1, Chat, or Text 838255 Vet Centers1-877-927-8387 Homeless Veteran Resources1-877-424-3838 or Chat Ask VA Schedule a 1-on-1 Appointment with a VA Benefits Expert