Some people think the VA only offers traditional health care.
And honestly, some people think only men come to VA for care.
TVHS is doing something about that.
Recognizing women as the fastest-growing group within the Veteran population, the VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System (TVHS) is organizing events that bring women together to socialize while learning about community resources.
"We are giving women an avenue to build confidence, fellowship with their sisters through positive coping skills, learning something new and meeting a new friend," said Carolyn K. Smith, TVHS Women Veterans Program Manager. "We are using TVHS Facebook (facebook.com/VATVHS/), My HealtheVet (myhealth.va.gov) Secure Messaging and Recreational Therapy (tinyurl.com/TVHSevents)to reach out and make it easier to register for events such as making earrings, going for a hike, creating butterfly canvas art, and visiting the space observatory."
We know it's working because women have been responding. Smith has hosted five events, and participation has grown steadily.
"I notice more people are RSVPing for future events which is exciting," said Smith.
The next events are learning to make earrings and creating butterfly canvas art (facebook.com/VATVHS). Any woman who has served is welcome to come along to see what this is all about - and bring a friend.
To find out more, contact Beverly.Groogan@va.gov, Carolyn.Smith10@va.gov or (615) 339-6640.
