VA Innovations

Innovation & Improvement Expo showcased projects that have improved Veteran experiences and provided educational sessions for employees.

The benefits of 3D printing are limitless—from individually customized care, such as creating hand and foot orthotics, prosthetic limbs, and reconstructive surgery, to more groundbreaking applications, such as the ability to accurately replicate a patient’s heart, lung, spine, or aortic valve. Clearly, 3D printing has a profound impact on Veterans’ lives.

As LEAF reaches different VA constituencies, employees are using it in remarkable ways – uses that go beyond what its developer thought possible.

VA and the Humane Society of United States held a special event to provide Veterans information about the benefits of the human-animal bond. Another innovation to support Veteran health.

HARLINGEN, Texas – VA Texas Valley Costal Bend Health Care System, [...]

The Siri function on Apple’s iPhone and the Google Assistant function on Android phones now automatically dial the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline which also serves the Veterans Crisis Line, even if the number (1-800-273-8255) is not saved in the phone’s contact list.

Research Week celebrates the accomplishments of VA research, which for more than 90 years has been improving the lives of Veterans and all Americans through health care discovery and innovation.

These best practices address key areas in which VA can improve its health care for Veterans.

“The LUKE arm is a shining example of why VA exists,” Secretary Shulkin said. “There is no commercial market for this type of technology...This is why VA and its research efforts – efforts that could not be replicated in the private sector – are so important.”