VA Central Iowa Health Care System (VACIHCS)

08/15/2025

On August 12, submariners from the USS Iowa visited with Veterans at the CLC and toured the facilities. Veterans had the opportunity, some former submariners themselves, to meet with the service members, providing a meaningful connection with the work of the VA Central Iowa Health Care System and those currently serving. It was a chance for camaraderie and stories and allowed the service members to see the work that we do here at VACIHCS.

08/12/2025

Yesterday, VA Central Iowa Health Care System Medical Center Director Lisa Curnes attended the Veterans Day Parade at the Iowa State Fair! At VA Central Iowa Health Care System we are honored to participate in recognizing Veterans at the Iowa State Fair each year!

This year’s parade held special significance recognizing the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War Commemoration, honoring Iowa’s Vietnam War Veterans as Grand Marshals. This recognition serves as a meaningful tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and enduring camaraderie of these Veterans who served during one of our nation’s most turbulent eras.

Lisa attended alongside VA Midwest Health Care Network Interim Director Judith Johnson-Mekota, Iowa City VA Health Care System Interim Director Heath Streck, and Iowa Regional Veterans Benefits Administration Assistant Directo Heidi Rhodes.

08/01/2025

07/28/2025

Take a Youth to Work Day was held on Friday July 25th, 2025. Youth attending 2nd-grade-12th grade had the opportunity to participate in this event. The day consisted of guided tours throughout the hospital and lunch together in the Auditorium. Tour locations included: the Sim Lab, Police Service, Employee Wellness, Dental, Recreation Therapy, NFS, Radiology, and Surgery! The event concluded with presentations provided by the ARL on Pet Therapy with visits from therapy dogs Parker and Arlie, as well as a presentation and simulation demonstration provided by active-duty Army National Guard member Matthew Kessler. Learning Service would like to thank all those who volunteered, participated, and assisted in this event to help make it a success!

07/22/2025

07/15/2025

You never know when you'll be in a position to help save a life! Come on out to receive FREE training in AED and hands-only CPR. July 21, 23, and 28 at the South Des Moines VA Clinic 🦸‍♂️

07/08/2025

It's been a little rainy but we took advantage of some warm weather last week at our Sun, Snacks and Smiles event. We had a great time celebrating our fantastic employees and Veterans with grilled food and outdoor games. Thank you to everyone who came out to connect!

07/02/2025

Calling all talented Veterans! We are accepting entries for the 2025 National Veterans Creative Arts Competition in the areas of art, creative writing, dance, drama, and music. The deadline to enter is July 31. Please contact Suzanne Anderson at Suzanne.anderson4@va.gov for more information or for rules and categories.

06/24/2025

Female Veterans at VA Central Iowa enjoyed a relaxing and rejuvenating retreat recently, complete with a pontoon boat ride, nature scavenger hunt, painting workshop, and a meditation session of Yoga Nidra!

05/29/2025

We are currently taking entries for the National Veterans Creative Arts Competition in the areas of art, creative writing, dance, drama, or music. Entries will be on display at Hoyt Sherman Place and at the VA later this Fall.

If you have any questions, please contact Suzanne Anderson at Suzanne.anderson4@va.gov.

05/26/2025

This Memorial Day, we remember the service and sacrifices of the fallen 🇺🇸