Adjutant's Updates & News

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September is Mental Health Month / Suicide Prevention and Awareness.

The Lincoln Clinic is asking local VSOs for support during the month. VSOs can have a table to display ways they support their fellow veterans. They cannot use the table as a means to recruit new members. VSOs can provide treats and coffee, just need to follow the VA guidelines.

I noticed a few changes while at the VA Lincoln Clinic. There is a new counter as you enter the building. This gives the greeters a place to sit while helping veterans fill out travel forms, etc. Seating areas have been changed, unused tv cabinets have been removed.

After my last appointment, I was provided with a summary of my visit. From the vitals taken by the nurse, a list of upcoming VA appointments, and listing of current meds were provided. Was nice to have it all provided on one or two sheets.

The VA is still requesting Veterans to update their VA Identification Cards. If you receive a notice from the Department of Veteran Affairs to update your information, you can update your VA ID cards while in the Clinic. You will need to bring some form of a State issued ID, like a Driver’s License.

The Lincoln CBOC Volunteer Services can always use Bus Passes, Gas cards, and Grocery Cards. Gift cards to Sam’s or Walmart are used to buy clothing as the needs come up during the year. Currently there is a need for summer items. Items include small, travel size items that can fit into small hygiene kits, soaps, sunscreen, hand towels, and wet wipes. Other items requested are handheld USB fans, USB cables, batteries, and box fans.

Flu shots and Covid shots are now being given for those with appointments, walk-ins, or through urgent care. When you have an appointment, you will be asked if you wish a flu, covid shot, or to update any other vaccines that show up as overdue on your VA Health records. If you do not have an upcoming appointment, call your local clinic to schedule one. Covid shots are being given by appointment only.

If you receive a statement from the VA for co-payments, remember that most CBOC do not have finance offices. IF you have a billing question, you need to call the number that is listed on your statement. Mail payment to the address shown on your statement. You should find a finance office at most of the VA Hospitals, but they may have limited hours. This is true for the Omaha VA hospital.

With the signing of the PAC act, more veterans have become eligible for services, not only for those who served “boots on the ground,” but anyone who has served since the Gulf War. If you have any questions, call your local county, or state service officer, or registered VSO, only takes a few minutes to see if you might qualify for an increase, or a new VA disability rating. 

The Lincoln CBOC is trying to fill open staff positions. Podiatrist, including a NP or nurse to provide foot care for Veterans in the Lincoln area.

Only trained service animals should be brought into a VA Health clinic or hospital. Trained service animals that qualify under DAV requirements are always welcome. Other pets or comfort dogs do not qualify and should be left at home. If you do bring a comfort or emotional support dog into a VA clinic, you are responsible for cleaning up after them. Please do so. Don’t leave a mess for others to clean up. 

Thanks for your service to this great country and to your fellow Veterans.

Ed Schnabel 

American Legion Representative for the Lincoln CBOC