Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks

04/16/2026

Your Voice Matters — Today and Always
On Thursday, April 16, we observe National Healthcare Decisions Day, a day dedicated to helping Veterans take control of their future healthcare decisions.
Planning ahead isn’t just about paperwork, it’s about making sure your voice is heard, even if you’re unable to speak for yourself.
Here’s how you can take action:
• Reflect on what matters most to you and your healthcare preferences
• Choose a trusted person to make decisions on your behalf if needed
• Complete an advance directive or living will
• Have open conversations with your loved ones and care team
Taking time now can ease the burden on your family later and ensure your care reflects your values.

04/16/2026

Su***de warning signs often appear gradually. When you know the signs, you don’t have to guess. You can check in. You can act.

VeteransCrisisLine.net/SignsOfCrisis.

04/16/2026

Stay Active. Stay Connected. Stay Inspired.

Are you a Veteran age 54 or older who enjoys staying active, learning new skills, and connecting with fellow Veterans? The National Veterans Golden Age Games (NVGAG) offers an incredible opportunity for Veterans to compete, participate, and celebrate healthy living through a wide range of sports and recreational activities designed specifically for older Veterans. From athletics and fitness challenges to creative and recreational events, the Golden Age Games promote healthy aging, camaraderie, and wellness while bringing Veterans together from across the country.

VHSO encourages eligible Veterans to explore this exciting program and discover how you can challenge yourself, meet new friends, and represent our Veteran community.
• It’s never too late to stay active.
• It’s never too late to connect.
• It’s never too late to compete.

For more information about eligibility and how to participate, contact Coach Brad Anderson at (479) 871-4379 or your VHSO care provider.

04/15/2026

VA understands that military sexual trauma (MST) can affect survivors in different ways.

During Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, learn more about VA’s free MST-related care and services that are here for you year-round.
https://mentalhealth.va.gov/SAAPM

04/15/2026

Join us for "Walk a Mile in THEIR Shoes" on April 29, 11 AM - 1 PM at VHSO Avenue of Flags. This event recognizes those impacted by sexual violence, with a special focus on Veterans. Enjoy Whole Health self-care exhibits, light refreshments, and teal & white T-shirt painting with Crystal Bridges' Mobile Art Lab. Let's wear teal and denim to support and raise awareness. Together, we can heal and empower our community. See you there!

04/15/2026

Tax Day is Here!

Don’t forget — Tax Day 2026 is today, Wednesday, April 15! Whether you’re a Veteran, retiree, or still in the workforce, it’s time to make sure your federal income taxes are filed and squared away.

Here’s what you need to know:
• File your 2025 federal tax return by April 15
• Need more time? Request an extension until October 15 (but pay any owed taxes now to avoid penalties)
• Self-employed or earning outside traditional wages? Your first estimated tax payment for 2026 is also due April 15
• E-filing through the Internal Revenue Service is the fastest way to get your refund — often within 21 days

Missing the deadline can lead to penalties and interest, so plan ahead and file on time.
Every step you take toward financial readiness supports your overall well-being. If you have questions, consider reaching out to a trusted tax professional or exploring free filing options if eligible.

04/14/2026

VA deploys new Federal Electronic Health Record system at four hospitals in Michigan – the first deployment in years after the Biden Administration paused the rollout of this important technology in 2023.

04/13/2026

Get your Sticks on Route 66 — Give Blood!

Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks invites you to roll up your sleeve and make a life-saving difference!

• Fort Smith VA Clinic
• Tuesday, April 14, 2026
• 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
• Look for the Bloodmobile
• Walk-ins are welcome!

Join us and help ensure a strong blood supply for Veterans and our community. Donors will receive a Get Your Sticks T- shirt while supplies last! For more information, contact Tiffany Sokolowski at Tiffany.Sokolowski@va.gov

*This event is hosted by an independent organization and is not endorsed, sponsored, or affiliated with the VA Medical Center. The information is provided for informational purposes only. The VA Medical Center assumes no responsibility for the content or conduct of this event.

04/13/2026

04/12/2026

Join VHSO in Celebrating Our Radiological and Imaging Nurses!

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our incredible radiological and imaging nurses for their unwavering commitment to caring for our Veterans during diagnostic imaging procedures. Your expertise in educating Veterans and utilizing best practices and techniques truly makes a lasting impact on those you serve.

Thank you for making a difference in the lives of our Veterans every day. 🙏💙

04/12/2026

Join us for a Veteran Town Hall hosted by the Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks (VHSO) at the Gene Taylor Veterans’ Outpatient Clinic in Springfield, MO.

Date: Thursday, April 23rd
Time: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Our Executive Leadership will provide updates about VHSO, and this is a great chance for you to connect, share ideas, and ask questions. This town hall is for YOU!

Can't make it in person? No worries! You can still join us via TEAMS. https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/24314920897382?p=d1vTnJ0xgvJupcRNgJ

We look forward to seeing you there!

04/11/2026

April is Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month — a time to raise awareness, share resources, and support the nearly 1 million Americans living with Parkinson’s disease (PD), including more than 110,000 Veterans receiving care through VA.

The month coincides with the birth of James Parkinson, who first described the disease in 1817.

Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological disorder that affects dopamine-producing cells in the brain. While there is currently no cure, early detection and expert care can make a powerful difference.

Know the 10 early signs:
• Tremors (often in hands or fingers)
• Small handwriting
• Loss of smell
• Trouble sleeping
• Stiffness or balance problems
• Constipation
• A soft or low voice
• Reduced facial expression (“facial masking”)
• Dizziness or fainting
• Stooping or hunching over
No single sign means you should worry — but if you notice more than one, talk with your provider.
VA has established specialized centers known as Parkinson’s Disease Research, Education, and Clinical Centers (PADRECCs), offering state-of-the-art care including movement disorder specialists, therapy services, pharmacy benefits, and surgical options.
At Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks we are committed to connecting Veterans to the care and support they deserve.
Early awareness. Expert care. Ongoing support.