 
Backlog of Veterans waiting for VA benefits down 37% since Jan. 20
The Department of Veterans Affairs announced today it has processed more disability benefits compensation & pension ratings claims in a single year than ever before.
In fiscal year 2024, VA processed a total of 2,517,519 ratings claims, and this year the department reached an all-time high of 2,524,115 ratings claims issued Aug. 8 — nearly two months before the end of FY25.
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VA’s Board of Veterans Appeals is celebrating its 92nd birthday on July 28, 2025. The Board is celebrating this milestone by surpassing 92,000 dispatched disability appeals for Veterans and dependents faster this year than ever before. The Board remains on track this Fiscal Year to issue the highest annual number of decisions in its history.
President Franklin D. Roosevelt established the foundation for the Board of Veterans’ Appeals through Veterans Regulation No. 2, which set out the procedures for filing claims—and a review of those claims on appeal. The previous patchwork system of appellate adjudication of claims for Veterans’ benefits was eliminated and all questions of entitlement to benefits were subject to a single appeal to the Administrator of Veterans Affairs.
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Get connected for well-being with Whole Health!
We all want to feel like we belong. If you need more social connection, there are lots of ways to do that. Consider volunteering, joining a Veterans Service Organization, or taking a class. Strengthening social connections (that sense of belonging to a group or feeling close to others) will even help you connect more to yourself. This article explains more and includes a 7-minute guided movement practice to help you focus on social connectedness.
There are many ways to build social connections and improve your health and well-being! Learn more about all of the different options available at VA Long Beach through the Introduction to Whole Health Class. To enroll, 1) Call 562-826-8000, ext. 18670, and/or 2) Ask your healthcare team to place a Whole Health consult.
 
 Different Location - Patriot Park
The Veterans Social Connection (VSC) provides Veterans with an opportunity to meet and socialize in a safe environment and provide resources for Veterans. The VSC is typically held on the last Friday of each month from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on the Patriot Cafe Patio, however, this month, we will be meeting at Patriot Park. We'll see you then!
The Veterans Legal Institute is partnering with VA Long Beach for a Legal Clinic on Friday, August 29 from 9:00 a.m. - noon at the Egg (Bldg. 165, Rm. D101) at Tibor Rubin VA Medical Center! Please call 714-852-3492 for a consultation with an attorney to receive assistance with the following matters:
- Eviction
- Discharge Upgrades
- Family Law
- Bankruptcy
- Expungement
- Other Areas
 A Transportation Fair will be held at Bldg. 165, Rm. D101 (The Egg) on August 15, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
The fair will provide information on multiple transportation options within the community that will be beneficial for medical appointments and non medical appointments.
 
 When: August 28 | 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. PT (2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. ET)
Where: Online Program (Zoom)
More than 110,000 U.S. veterans living with Parkinson’s disease (PD) receive care through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), which offers access to specialized treatment, financial benefits, and dedicated support services. In this webinar, we’ll explore the wide range of resources available to veterans with PD through the VA system, including Parkinson’s Disease Research, Education and Clinical Centers (PADRECCs), affiliated sites, and Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs). Participants will also learn how the Parkinson’s Foundation partners with the VA to provide additional education, tools, and support for veterans and their families.
Register or call 646-859-4731
 When: August 28 | Noon - 4:00 p.m.
Where: Multi-Service Center, 1301 W. 12th St., Long Beach, CA 90813
Come out and enjoy free resources and uplifting energy as we support our unhoused and low-income neighbors!
- 15 agencies on-site (VA, DMH, DPSS, Medical Screenings & more)
- Grilled burgers & hot dogs
- Live DJ + Comedians
- Giveaways: Backpacks, socks & more!
- Free haircuts, clothing & shoes
Want to donate to our event? Contact us! 562-570-4500
 
Are you a Veteran but you're not sure where to start with the VA? Check out the VA Resource Navigator, a short, sweet combination of all the most valuable resources to get you started on your way to VA benefits and health care.
Download the Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and Survivors handbook online or pick up a printed copy at your local medical center, regional office or Vet Center for free.
We hope you find Health & Heroes a helpful resource to keep you informed about the many great resources and services available at VA Long Beach Healthcare System (VALBHS). We look forward to highlighting and sharing stories about our Veterans and the dedicated team members who are entrusted with your care.
We want you to have the information you need to manage your health and live your healthiest life. We're excited to bring you Health & Heroes and hope you enjoy our facility magazine!
The VA Podcast Network offers a diverse selection of top-quality podcasts made with a Veteran community in mind. Each podcast specializes on a different topic and covers gripping content that no Veteran should want to miss out on.
Work with us!
Find VA Long Beach Healthcare System jobs on USA Jobs.
Find out how to work with us in other ways!
VA Caregiver Support Line
1-855-260-3274 toll-free
Disclaimer of Endorsement:
Reference herein to any specific commercial products, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise, does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Government. The views and opinions of authors expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of the United States Government, and shall not be used for advertising or product endorsement purposes.
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