Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System

02/25/2026

02/24/2026

Today our SIM CORE Center is holding a surgical robotics training session for MUSC residents and interns at our downtown Charleston campus.

The Simulation for Excellence in Clinical Operations, Readiness and Education Center (SIM CORE) was opened last year and functions as a mission-ready training ground for not only VA providers, but also healthcare providers from our community partners. Through these joint training ventures we are able to truly enhance the quality of medical care in the Lowcountry in a safe and simulated environment!

02/24/2026

The Veterans Crisis Line can help Veterans’ family members and friends get connected with helpful resources too.

Dial 988 then Press 1, chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat, or text 838255.

02/20/2026

Today, Elizabeth Dulaney, a Ralph H. Johnson VA HCS Certified Ophthalmic Assistant and member of the 315th Air Force Reserve Wing, presented Dr. Beischel with the Patriot Award!

This award recognizes employers who go above and beyond to support our nation’s service members and their families; through flexibility, understanding, and unwavering commitment.

Dr. Beischel’s leadership ensures that team members balancing military service and civilian careers feel valued and supported. By fostering a workplace that respects duty and service, Dr. Beischel strengthens not only our team but also the readiness and resilience of our armed forces.

02/20/2026

❤️ February Focus: Caring for Veterans with Dementia ❤️

This month, as we celebrate love and connection, let’s remember those living with dementia—and the caregivers who support them every day.

Tips for a Heart-Centered Approach:

>Lead with love. Gentle reassurance and calm words go a long way.

>Create comforting routines. Consistency reduces stress and confusion.

>Communicate simply. Short, clear phrases help avoid frustration.

>Redirect with kindness. When behaviors become challenging, respond with patience and empathy.

>Care for yourself too. Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. 💡

Veterans & caregivers: You’re not alone. VA offers 24/7 support at 855‑260‑3274 and crisis help at 988 (press 1).

This February, let’s show that love is more than words—it’s action, patience, and presence. 💜

02/20/2026

Today, on National Caregivers Day, we honor the caregivers who give so much of themselves to support our Nation’s Veterans. Your compassion, dedication, and quiet strength do not go unnoticed.

02/19/2026

Make this quit attempt your last. VA’s winning combination of medication and counseling is your best chance at quitting for good.

Reach out to your VA provider about creating a treatment plan that will set you up for success: Mentalhealth.va.gov/quit-tobacco/how-to-quit.asp

02/19/2026

At the request of the Berkeley County Coroner’s Office, the Veteran Su***de Prevention Coalition was able to acquire fifteen custom-designed 988 signs for all seven Berkeley County boat landings! We love to see the community work together to help those that could be experiencing a crisis.

The VA's top clinical priority is preventing su***de among all Veterans.
Su***de has no single cause and no one approach can end it⁠, but prevention is possible, especially when Veterans find support before a crisis happens.

Our health care su***de prevention coordinators can get you the support you need. They work with our behavioral health providers and community organizations to assist Veterans who are managing emotional or mental health crises.

For more information, see below:

https://www.va.gov/charleston-health-care/health-services/su***de-prevention/

02/18/2026

02/17/2026

Take a step toward getting support. Find su***de prevention tools and resources for yourself and other Veterans at MentalHealth.VA.gov/su***de_prevention.

02/17/2026

Trying to achieve better sleep? The CBT-i Coach app helps you track sleep patterns with a nightly sleep diary and incorporate relaxation tools, such as guided imagery and muscle relaxation, so you can improve your rest. https://mobile.va.gov/app/cbt-i-coach

02/16/2026

Our Women's Health Program would like to invite you to our Women's Health Fair: Heart Health Event.

Feb. 27, 2026 from 3-4pm in the North Charleston VA Clinic on Rivers Ave. 2nd floor Lobby.