As we move into the fall season, it’s the perfect time to prioritize your health and ensure your records are in order. This month, we’re focusing on two important topics: staying up to date with recommended vaccinations and taking advantage of the VA’s new streamlined system for requesting records.

Stay Healthy This Fall: Vaccines for Veterans

With flu season upon us and respiratory illnesses like COVID-19 and RSV circulating, getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones. The Department of Veterans Affairs offers several vaccines at no cost to Veterans enrolled in VA health care.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Flu Shot: The seasonal flu vaccine is available at all VA medical centers and community-based outpatient clinics. You can also get a no-cost flu shot at over 8,000 Walgreens pharmacies nationwide by presenting your VA Health Identification Card and a photo ID.

• Pneumonia Vaccine: The VA and CDC recommend routine pneumonia vaccination for adults 50 and older to reduce the risk of serious illness. Veterans under 50 who meet certain medical criteria are also eligible.

• Shingles Vaccine: The shingles (herpes zoster) vaccine is available to eligible Veterans. It’s especially important for adults 50 and older, and may be recommended for certain younger individuals with specific health conditions.

• COVID-19 Vaccine: Updated COVID-19 boosters are offered at VA facilities and through most retail pharmacies at no cost to enrolled Veterans.

• Other Vaccines: The VA also provides vaccines for RSV, TDaP/Td, Hepatitis A & B, HPV, and more.

How to Get Vaccinated

• At Your Local VA Facility: Schedule an appointment or ask during your next visit. Many clinics also offer walk-in services.

• At In-Network Pharmacies: You can receive no-cost flu and COVID-19 vaccines at thousands of in-network retail pharmacies and urgent care locations nationwide. Use the VA locator tool to find a participating provider near you.

• At Community Events: Keep an eye out for local VA vaccination and health events in your area.

For more details on recommended vaccinations for men and women, visit the VA’s preventive health charts.

Requesting Records Made Easy: The New FOIA Portal

In other news, the VA has completely redesigned its Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and records request page, making it easier than ever to access your documents.

How the New System Works

The redesigned FOIA and records request page replaces a maze of legal terms with clearly labeled boxes. You simply select the box that matches the record you’re looking for and are immediately directed to the correct form. The new system has cut down on misdirected requests by 90%, meaning you get your records much faster.

You can request a wide range of documents, including:

• DD214 (military service records)

• Veterans Benefits Administration records

• Veterans Health Administration medical records

• National Cemetery Administration records

• Employment verification

• CHAMPVA claims

How to Get Started

Simply visit the FOIA and records request page, select the box that matches the record you need, and follow the instructions to submit your request. You can also submit a request through the AccessVA portal using the convenient “Quick Submit” tab.

Stay healthy and informed this fall! If you have any questions about these resources, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Till next month, -Linda