Next week, area veterans can learn more about a new health clinic coming to Iola. They’ll also have a chance to apply for VA health care or claims at the event.
The Veterans Administration is offering community meetings to answer questions about the opening of a VA clinic at 1408 East St. The clinic will open later this spring.
In Iola, the meeting is from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday at the Dr. John Silas Bass North Community Center, 505 N. Buckeye St.
Plans for the new clinic and services will be explained as well as the status of current clinics. They can apply for VA health care on site, or apply for VA service-connected claims. Three veterans service officers will be on site to help veterans file claims or to answer questions.
Services include such programs as VA caregiver support, All of US research program, transition assistance for National Guard and reservists, disability claims and the PACT Act.
THE IOLA VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic will absorb three other clinics — in Chanute, Garnett and Fort Scott — and offer a greater variety of services at a centralized location.
That includes primary care, behavioral and social health care, and women’s services. The clinic will have laboratory services available five days a week, including vaccinations. Additional services include home-based care, where nurses can meet with veterans who are unable to travel.
Telehealth services also are available; veterans can come to the office to receive audiology, vision and other services through the VA’s medical center in Topeka.
Smaller clinics in Garnett, Chanute and Fort Scott will close. Currently, 856 veterans utilize the three clinics. Veterans who use those clinics are expected to transfer services to the Iola clinic but can choose to go elsewhere. Veterans can attend any of the community meetings to discuss options with VA representatives.
OTHER meetings will be at:
• Garnett. 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 6, at the Garnett Public Library Archer Room, 125 W. 4th Ave.
• Chanute. 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, Student Union, Room No. 214, 800 W. 14th St.
• Fort Scott. 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9, Fort Scott Community College Student Union – Bailey Hall, 2108 S. Horton St.
For more information, contact Sheli Sweeney at 785-559-8190.
