VA Bedford Healthcare System

03/12/2026

If you see signs of crisis and aren’t sure what to do next, the Veterans Crisis Line can help and get you connected to local support: Dial 988 then Press 1, chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat, or text 838255.

03/11/2026

03/09/2026

Our Research Teams do some pretty amazing work!
Lots of hard work, dedication, research and collaboration goes into creating programs and services that improve Veterans' quality of life. This virtual reality program is no different.
Congratulations to VA Bedford Healthcare System New England Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC) and Hospice & Palliative Care Teams for their amazing work.
Read the full publication by visiting https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41661112/

: VA researchers in Bedford, Massachusetts, found using virtual reality can improve the well-being of Veterans receiving end-of-life hospice care. Twenty-five Veterans in hospice at a VA hospital participated in a pilot program in which they used a VR headset for self-selected entertainment programs. Travel experiences were the most popular, allowing reminiscence and touring of bucket-list destinations. Despite some setup challenges, 91% of participants said they enjoyed the experience, and 90% said they would participate again. Feedback suggested the experience improved Veterans’ anxiety, mood, and boredom. One participant remarked, “I don’t get to feel this good very often.” The findings demonstrate how VR technology can offer meaningful engagement and improve psychological well-being in Veterans receiving end-of-life care. (Journal of Palliative Medicine, Feb. 9, 2026)


https://www.research.va.gov/news_briefs/news_brief.cfm?RecordID=258352

03/09/2026

VA Bedford is launching a new Geriatrics and Extended Care Nurse Practitioner Residency Program for the 2026–2027 academic year!
This yearlong program offers comprehensive clinical training for newly graduated NPs who want to specialize in caring for aging Veterans. Applications are now open.
Learn more or share with someone who may be interested:
🔗 https://www.va.gov/bedford-health-care/work-with-us/internships-and-fellowships/geriatrics-and-extended-care-nurse-practitioner-residency-program-gec-npr/

03/06/2026

03/04/2026

GI Bill® students: Did you verify your enrollment for February?

All VA education beneficiaries, including Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (Chapter 35) students, must verify their enrollment at the end of each month to receive benefit payments.

Learn more by visiting VA’s Verify School Enrollment webpage at https://www.va.gov/education/verify-school-enrollment/.

03/02/2026

This Women’s History Month, we proudly honor the strength, courage, and service of our Women Veterans.

As we reflect on this year’s theme, “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future,” we recognize the powerful role Women Veterans continue to play — not only in defending our Nation, but in shaping stronger communities, families, and futures.

From every branch, in every era, women have answered the call — serving with resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment.

The Center for Women Veterans honors our Sister Veterans — past and present — and celebrates the lasting impact you make every day.

- Your service matters.
- Your leadership matters.
- Your legacy matters.

03/02/2026

The 18th Annual Women Veterans Network Conference will be held on Saturday, May 16th, at the Four Points by Sheraton. To register: https://form.jotform.com/253566143078158

03/02/2026

Veterans, you’ve earned your benefits. VA health care is one of them. From primary care to mental health support, VA is built to serve Veterans — because your service matters.
https://www.va.gov/health-care/

02/27/2026

Ready to make 2026 your healthiest year yet?
Start small by setting realistic goals and focusing on one healthy change each week. These small steps add up to big results. VA dietitians can help you to create personalized health goals.

https://www.nutrition.va.gov/NUTRITION/Get_Help_from_a_Dietitian.asp

02/27/2026