Empowering Veterans: Insights and Updates from the Director – January 24, 2025 | VA Pacific Islands Healthcare

Hello VAPIHCS Veterans,

Starting January 21, 2025, the VA Pacific Islands Health Care System (VAPIHCS) made some changes due to a hiring freeze required by the government. This means we have some limitations, but important roles for Veterans’ care will still be filled.

In line with a recent executive order, we have ended all Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. However, Equal Opportunity Employment (EEO) services will still be available when needed.

Currently, there’s no new guidance about returning to in-person work. Those working from home can continue to do so until we hear differently.

We want to express our gratitude to our dedicated staff who tirelessly support each other and our Veterans every day.

Holocaust Remembrance Day

On January 27, we remember Holocaust Remembrance Day. It’s a time to reflect on a tragic chapter in history. The Holocaust began with the Dachau Concentration Camp in 1933 and ended with Germany’s surrender in 1945. Millions, including Jewish people, those with disabilities, and others, lost their lives. Let’s use this day to promote dignity and respect for all and to stand against prejudice.

Access for Veterans and Caregivers

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense have announced a new process to make it easier for Veterans and caregivers to access installations. This will simplify entry for medical visits, shopping, and recreational services. Background checks and ID verification will now be done electronically, streamlining the process. For more details, you can check the official release.

Thoughts from Chaplain Richie Charles

The Olympic games have been around for almost 3,000 years, starting back in 776 BC. Athletes competed fiercely, often in front of kings and nobles, running barefoot and using olive oil and sand to protect their bodies. They let go of anything that might slow them down.

Just like those ancient athletes, we can also face barriers that hinder our progress. Here are three key barriers to consider:

• Dwelling on Past Regrets: Looking back can be tempting, but it can slow us down. Instead of getting stuck in the past, let’s learn from it and push forward.
• Waiting for the Perfect Moment: The perfect time rarely comes. If we keep waiting, we might lose motivation. The best time is often now.
• Lack of Focus and Purpose: Ancient Olympians trained with clear goals. Having a vision helps us stay motivated and filter out distractions.

Let’s work together to remove these barriers, stay focused, and reach our full potential this year.

One Team, One Ohana!

Adam M. Robinson, Jr., MD, MBA, CPE
Director, VA Pacific Islands Health Care System
VADM, MC, USN, (RET)
36th Surgeon General, USN

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