VA Caribbean Healthcare System

14/05/2026

To celebrate VA National Research Week, our Associate Chief of Staff for Research and Development, Irma L. Molina Vicenty, inspired our team to get creative for “Embeleco Day.”

We donned Kentucky Derby–style hats and hairpieces, a festive nod to the recent victories of Puerto Ricans at the Derby, as we came together to honor the passion, resilience, and commitment to excellence that fuel our research mission.

This year’s theme, “Launching into the Future of Veterans’ Care,” and the local highlight “Innovation Starts with a Spark, Show Yours!” remind us that curiosity, dedication, and heart drive us toward innovative care for Veterans.

We’re proud to share this group photo of our Research Staff along with collaborating members of the Research Team community, showcasing the enthusiasm and creativity that help us shape the future! 🌟

14/05/2026

13/05/2026

VA Caribbean Healthcare System receives funding for continued infrastructure improvements

SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO – VA Caribbean Healthcare System received funding for Non-recurring Maintenance projects in the second quarter of fiscal year 2026, after receiving funding in the first quarter of the fiscal year.

Access the News Release Here: https://www.va.gov/caribbean-health-care/news-releases/va-caribbean-healthcare-system-upgrades-health-care-infrastructure/

13/05/2026

This National Police Week, I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to our dedicated law enforcement officers at the VA Caribbean Healthcare System. Your tireless work and steadfast commitment help protect our Veterans, staff, and facilities every day. — You are essential to our mission, and your dedication does not go unnoticed.

A special thank you to our VA Police Chief, Mr. Eric Díaz, whose leadership and professionalism continue to strengthen our Police Service and our keep our community safe.

On May 15, National Peace Officers Memorial Day, we honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Here at VA Caribbean, we mourn the loss of two members of our VA Police family. We honor the memory of Police Officer José Oscar Rodríguez Reyes and Lieutenant Frank Álvarez Nieves. Let us pause to remember their service, their dedication, and the sacrifice they made in the line of duty. Their courage and legacy will never be forgotten.

Join me in celebrating our police officers—not only during National Police Week, but every day—for their dedication in protecting our staff, Veterans, and visitors. Your work is truly appreciated and valued.

With sincere appreciation,

Antonio Sánchez, MD, MHSA, FAPA, FACHE
Executive Director (Medical Center Director)

12/05/2026

The Power of Nurses™ A Message from the Associate Director for Patient Care Services for Nurses Week

As we celebrate Nurses Week, I want to take a moment to recognize each of you for the extraordinary commitment you bring to our patients, our Veterans, and to one another every single day.

This year’s theme, “The Power of Nurses™,” reminds us of the profound impact you have—not only at the bedside, but across our entire healthcare system.

This year has not been without its challenges. We have navigated a period of change and uncertainty, requiring adaptability, professionalism, and, at times, quiet resilience. Through it all, you have remained focused, steady, and deeply dedicated to what matters most—delivering safe, high-quality care to the Veterans who have served our nation and now entrust us with their care.

What stands out most is your tenacity. In the face of evolving expectations and pressures, you have continued to lead with compassion, uphold our standards, and support each other as a team. Your ability to stay grounded in our mission while moving forward with strength and integrity reflects the true power of nursing in action.

Every interaction, every act of kindness, and every clinical decision reflects your commitment not only to excellence, but also to honoring the service and sacrifices of our Veteran population. Because of you, they continue to receive the dignity, respect, and quality care they deserve.

Thank you for your unwavering dedication, your professionalism, and the heart you bring to nursing. It is an honor to serve alongside you.

With deep appreciation,

Iris Hernández MSN, RN
Associate Director for Patient Care Services

12/05/2026

These Veterans found a path forward by addressing their mental health. They want you to know that you can too.

Discover why they want fellow Veterans to know they can find support. https://www.maketheconnection.net/mental-health-month/

11/05/2026

Raising the Bar: Police Crisis Training to Enhance Veteran Support
VA Police Roll Out Advanced Crisis Training in Collaboration with the Puerto Rico Police Department

I am pleased to announce that the VA Caribbean Healthcare System Police Service, in collaboration with the Puerto Rico Police Department (PRPD), commenced Critical Intervention Training for our officers this month. This initiative aims to provide a supportive, Veteran-centered approach to de-escalating situations involving not only Veterans but also employees and visitors in our community.

Under the leadership of Chief Eric Díaz and Lt. Kenny Herrera, Acting Training Coordinator, and in collaboration with Dr. Carmen Acosta Sánchez, Advisor on Psychosocial Aspects for the Assistant Superintendent of Education and Training for the PRPD, police officers gained advanced crisis intervention skills. This initiative responds to the Veterans Comprehensive Prevention, Access to Care, and Treatment (COMPACT) Act of 2020, which aims to improve su***de prevention and mental health services for Veterans.

Agents Angeliz López Machín and Bianca Santiago Lozada of the PRPD also contributed as role players, enriching the training experience. In addition to fulfilling COMPACT Act requirements, this training strengthens collaboration with local and state law enforcement to develop national standard procedures for engaging Veterans in crisis.

I’m honored to see our team continually enhancing our community connections in service to our Veterans.

Sincerely,

Antonio Sánchez, MD, MHSA, FAPA, FACHE
Executive Director (Medical Center Director)

11/05/2026

Veterans from across the country are coming together to share one message for their fellow Veterans: You are not alone.

No matter what your service era, branch or background, you can find a story to relate to. Find one that speaks to you. https://www.maketheconnection.net/MHM/

08/05/2026

At the VA Caribbean Healthcare System, we’re proud to celebrate the dedication, skill, and compassion of our incredible nursing team! Join us in thanking our nurses for the impact they have on the lives of Veterans and for their unwavering commitment to providing outstanding care!

08/05/2026

Meet Our New Associate
Chief of Staff (ACOS) for Rehabilitation

We are pleased to announce that Dr. Isabel C. Borrás Fernández has been selected as the Associate Chief of Staff (ACOS) for Rehabilitation at the VA Caribbean Healthcare System (VACHS), effective May 3, 2026.

Dr. Borrás brings over 20 years of experience in physical medicine and rehabilitation. She is widely recognized for her leadership in delivering comprehensive, patient-centered rehabilitative care, advancing clinical programs, and championing interdisciplinary collaboration. Her efforts have significantly strengthened access to specialized rehabilitative services for Veterans throughout the Caribbean.

Before this appointment, Dr. Borrás served in key leadership roles, including Physiatry Section Chief, Medical Director of Cardiac Rehabilitation, Home-Based Pulmonary Rehabilitation, and the Polytrauma Network Site. She is board-certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Brain Injury Medicine and has served the VA since 2005 in progressive clinical, academic, and administrative capacities.

Dr. Borrás is also an accomplished researcher and educator, having led multiple funded studies and delivered national presentations on traumatic brain injury, rural Veteran access, and cardiopulmonary rehabilitation.

Her leadership has been integral to accreditation efforts, the development of innovative rehabilitation programs, and mentoring the next generation of clinicians and investigators.

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Borrás to her new role. We are confident that her expertise and dedication will continue to enhance the quality of care we provide to our Veterans.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to our mission.

Sincerely,

Antonio Sánchez, MD, MHSA, FAPA, FACHE
Executive Director (Medical Center Director)

08/05/2026

Feeling on edge? Drinking more than you want? Feeling disconnected from loved ones?

You are not alone.

This Mental Health Month, hear Veterans describe the signs that helped them realize it was time to reach out for mental health care. https://www.maketheconnection.net/mental-health-month/