Graham Announces VA Expansion of Choice Program At Veterans Stand Down Event
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – April 27, 2015 – (RealEstateRama) — Representative Gwen Graham spoke at the North Florida Homeless Veterans Stand Down event today, and announced the Department of Veterans Affairs is expanding eligibility for the Veterans Choice Program, effective immediately.
The annual North Florida Homeless Veterans Stand Down transforms the North Florida Fairgrounds into a military atmosphere where veterans can receive legal advice, medical care and learn about housing options from an array of government and charitable organizations. Click here to read more about the Stand Down event.
“It’s amazing to see our entire community come together to help veterans in need,” Rep. Graham said. “Our freedom is dependent on those who risk their lives to defend our country, and they need to know we have their backs when they return home.”
At the Stand Down, Rep. Graham announced expansion of the Veterans Choice Program, which allows veterans who live more than 40 miles from a VA facility to seek care from non-VA medical facilities. The Department of Veterans Affairs is changing their eligibility requirements from straight-line distance to driving distance between a veteran’s place of residence and the nearest VA medical facility, roughly doubling the number of eligible veterans.
“No veteran should have to wait for care or drive hours to see a doctor,” Rep. Graham said. “I applaud the VA for taking action and expanding care for more of our heroes.”
Letters are being sent to the newly eligible veterans to let them know they are now eligible for the Veterans Choice Program under this expansion. If a veteran does not remember receiving a Veterans Choice Card or has other questions about the Choice Program, he or she can call (866) 606-8198.
