Southern Arizona Veterans Health Update for Monday, February 9, 2026

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Southern Arizona VA Health Care System Health Update

Southern Arizona Veterans Health Update for Monday, February 9, 2026


scam alert

Some VA facilities have received several calls from Veterans stating that they had received texts from VA asking them to “update their information.” The text included a link that redirected the recipient to a very legitimate looking website where the unsuspecting could enter sensitive personal information for the “update.”

This is a scam!

If you receive a suspicious text message (or email) please report it to VHA at (866) 842-4357. Scams related to VA benefits (VBA) should be reported to (833) 388-7233, and Non VA scams should be reported to the Federal Trade Commission at (877) 382-4357, or by contacting the FTC online at  http://reportfraud.ftc.gov/  

These are all 24/7 contact resources.

Veterans please block, delete, and report. And most importantly, do not click on any links!


VA News Banner

Take charge of your health this American Heart Month

Heart Health Month

February is American Heart Month, and a reminder to focus on cardiovascular health and to encourage heart health habits. At VA, we are dedicated to helping Veterans receive the best care and support to maintain a healthy heart.

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States, but it’s preventable with the right lifestyle choices and medical care. Here are some key steps to support a healthier heart. To learn more read the VA news article Take charge of your health this American Heart Month


Heart health research from MVP

heart health for Veterans

Did you know that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States—and that it can often be prevented? At VA’s Million Veteran Program (MVP), we’re using information from Veterans in our program to study the detection, prevention and treatment of heart disease. To learn more read the VA news article Heart Health research from MVP.


local news

SAVAHCS Chapel Grand Opening: A New Sanctuary of Comfort and Reflection

SAVAHCS Chapel grand opening

On Friday, January 30, 2026, the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System (SAVAHCS) marked a significant milestone with the grand opening of the new SAVAHCS chapel.

The new chapel, located in Building 2, Room S100, near patient care areas, is a project that has been envisioned for years. To learn more read the news article SAVAHCS Chapel Grand Opening: A New Sanctuary of Comfort and Reflection


February 10 is World Pulses Day

world pulses day

Pulses, also known as legumes or beans, are enjoyed all over the world.

Did you know there are over 400 varieties of beans including pinto, black, chickpeas, peas, and lentils. How many have you tried? Beans are rightfully celebrated because of their environmental benefits, versatility and nutrition.

Agriculturally, beans help improve soil. They are nitrogen-fixing crops, meaning they can convert nitrogen in the air into a form that plants can use. Bean crops require less water compared to other protein sources, making them an environmentally friendly option.

Beans are utilized in all cuisines around the world. They can be mashed, boiled and roasted.  They are versatile and used in dishes such as hummus to lentil soup to a comforting bowl of chili. Not only are they delicious but they are an affordable dietary staple.

These staples also are a powerhouse of nutrition and health benefits. They are a complex carbohydrate, high in fiber and protein. They are packed with essential nutrients like iron, potassium, and folate. The high fiber content helps in managing blood sugars, cholesterol and weight.

Beans deserve to be celebrated for their nutrition, versatile, and environmental benefits. If you haven’t had beans lately, now it’s a great time to add them back to your plate!

Did you know that the VA Nutrition and Food Services webpage has recipes, cookbooks, and cooking videos, check out the VA Nutrition and Food Services- Recipes, Cookbooks, and Cooking Videos to learn more. 

Take Charge of Your Health: Join Our Diabetes Management Class

Are you interested in learning more about diabetes, how it affects your body, and how diet and medication play a role in managing it? This class is designed with you in mind!

Our dedicated SAVAHCS Dietitians and Pharmacists have teamed up to offer a comprehensive Diabetes Management Class, available in two convenient formats:

  • In-Person: TUC INTERD PHARM/NUTR DM CLASS
  • Virtual (VA Video Connect): TUC VVC INTD PHRM/NTR DM CLASS

Both options are offered monthly to fit your schedule. To register, call 520-792-1450 ext. 1-3485 or contact your PACT Registered Dietitian (RD).


Events

Join the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System (SAVAHCS) Quarterly Mental Health Open House Virtually

Online Virtual Veteran Event

You can virtually join the SAVAHCS Quarterly Mental Health Open House on Thursday, February 19 to learn more about mental health resources offered.

Topics covered will include:

  • Peer Support
  • Women's Health
  • Whole Health
  • Veterans Justice Outreach
  • Homeless & Housing Resources
  • Substance Use Treatment
  • Same-Day Mental Health Screening
  • Family Counseling
  • Employment Services
  • Psychotherapy
  • Compensated Work Therapy
  • Psychosocial Rehabilitation & Recovery Center

The virtual presentations start at 10:00 a.m. to register, click on the following link SAVAHCS Quarterly Mental Health Open House to register. 


San Carlos Apache Tribe Veterans Stand Down

Veteran Stand Down

The San Carlos Apache Tribe Veterans Stand Down will take place on Saturday, February 14 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Burdette Hall in San Carlos, AZ at the coordinates: 33.35772, -110.45248

There will be several VA and community resources on hand providing information on Veteran resources and services to Veterans, their families, and caregivers. 

For more information on the stand down, please call 928-475-2346 or 928-594-0066. 


Resources

VA Resource Navigator 

VA Resource Guide

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 the most valuable resources to get you started on your way to VA benefits and health care.


VA is here for you

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

My VA 411 graphic