Birmingham VA Health Care System

02/23/2026

Not enrolled in VA health care but looking for mental health support?

Find confidential counseling and peer support at a local Vet Center near you: Mentalhealth.va.gov/get-help/local-care.asp

02/21/2026

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

02/20/2026

Today, on National Caregivers Day, we honor the caregivers who give so much of themselves to support our Nation’s Veterans. Your compassion, dedication, and quiet strength do not go unnoticed.

02/19/2026

Last week, we welcomed various community partners who each found their own way to thank Veterans receiving care during National Salute to Veteran Patients Week. Since 1978, National Salute has been held each year during the week of Valentine’s Day to honor hospitalized Veterans for their service and sacrifice. All week, appreciation could be seen in the hallways, in patient rooms, and in the hearts of those who have served.

• The Bessemer City High School JROTC brought energy and encouragement to the medical center. These students shared handmade Valentine cards and words of thanks.

• Big Al, The University of Alabama mascot, brought in the school spirit with a special visit. Dressed in crimson and full of enthusiasm, the mascot greeted Veterans, families, and visitors, posed for photos, and inspired many to cheer "Roll Tide!"

• Healing Words, a new program introduced by students from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, visited Veterans at bedside, read aloud from selected books, and left the book as a personal gift. .uab

• Norton's Florist, a city staple for over 100 years, donated 100 long-stem red, pink, and white carnations to the medical center. Members of the Birmingham VA leadership team delivered the carnations to Veterans throughout the hospital, creating small moments that shared a big message of gratitude.

To learn more about volunteer opportunities with the Birmingham VA Health Care System, visit www.volunteer.va.gov or www.cdceportal.va.gov, or call (205) 933-4396.

02/19/2026

Make this quit attempt your last. VA’s winning combination of medication and counseling is your best chance at quitting for good.

Reach out to your VA provider about creating a treatment plan that will set you up for success: Mentalhealth.va.gov/quit-tobacco/how-to-quit.asp

02/18/2026

02/14/2026

Looking for an app to help you meet your health goals? VA’s MOVE Coach app can help you manage your weight and improve your nutrition. VA dietitians can share more.

https://mobile.va.gov/app/move-coach

02/13/2026

In observance of Presidents’ Day, the Birmingham VA Health Care System will be closed Monday, Feb. 16, 2026. This closure includes the main facility in Birmingham and each of our Veterans Clinics. Our Emergency Department remains open 24 hours. Please dial 911 or head to the nearest emergency department in the event of an emergency.

For those facing a mental health emergency:
We encourage you to reach out to the Veteran Crisis Line at 988. Simply press 1 or text 83255 for confidential support and assistance.

If you have non-urgent, non-emergency matters that require attention:
We recommend using the convenience of My HealtheVet Secure Messaging (https://www.va.gov/health-care/send-receive-messages/). This platform enables you to communicate with your healthcare team regarding prescription refills, appointment scheduling or cancellations, and access to your medical records.

To access Secure Messaging:
Ensure you are registered as a VA Patient (https://www.va.gov/health-care/manage-health/) and have a premium account. If you haven't already registered, we encourage you to take a moment and complete the process today. Additionally, don't forget to opt-in to receive email notifications for Secure Messaging, keeping you informed about important updates and responses from your healthcare team.

We wish you a happy, safe, and enjoyable Presidents’ Day!

02/11/2026

02/09/2026

This Friday, February 13, join our Women Veterans Outreach team at the Huntsville VA Clinic from 9AM -11AM, as we help educate and empower women Veterans around cardiovascular health, prevention and overall wellness.