VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System

02/23/2026

Meet Elesha Bonhomme, a health professions education specialist at VA Pittsburgh.

Q. Are you or a family member a Veteran?
A. I am not a Vet, but my grandpa was in the Navy! He spent a lot of time on submarines during WWII.

Q. Why did you want to work at VA, and how long have you been at VA Pittsburgh?
A. I wanted to work at the VA because I’ve always had a deep respect and gratitude for Veterans and what they do. The opportunity to serve those who’ve served our country felt like meaningful work that actually makes a difference. I’ve been with VA Pittsburgh for about 12 years. I was at the VA in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for seven years prior to moving to Pittsburgh.

Q. What is your favorite part of your job at VA Pittsburgh?
A. I have worked all over the VA and many departments, but my favorite part of my current job is knowing I am assisting the future nurses, doctors and all health professions trainees to get the education and training they need to not only be successful in their chosen fields, but to also have to specialized knowledge that comes with working for the VA and for our Veteran population.

Q. What is one thing that Veterans should know about VA that most don’t?
A. Many Veterans don’t realize that by choosing the VA for their care, they’re helping shape the future of health care for everyone. The treatments, research and innovations out there in the world of medicine often start right here at a VA, all thanks to the experiences and feedback of the Veterans we serve!

Q. What's one thing that always brings a smile to your face, no matter how tough your day has been?
A. Seeing a Veteran smile or say “thank you” after I’ve helped them always makes my day. Outside of work, my kid’s health and happiness and my dog greeting me at the door when I come home never fails to lift my spirits (unless he got into the garbage).

Q. When you are not at work, what would we most likely find you doing?
A. You are probably going to find me spending time with my family, exploring local trails, or on vacation near the ocean. I love being outdoors whenever I can — it helps me recharge and refocus.

If you are interested in an internship or fellowship at VA Pittsburgh, visit https://www.va.gov/pittsburgh-health-care/work-with-us/internships-and-fellowships/.

02/23/2026

For information on Vet Centers in the greater Pittsburgh area, visit https://www.va.gov/pittsburgh-vet-center/locations/

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

02/22/2026

"I have been treated by Dr. (Walid) Gellad for about 18 years now and have great respect and confidence in his skill and knowledge. This annual physical/checkup was thorough and caring, as always, and I know that I am in good hands. Every other member of the staff was friendly and very professional." -- Veteran's comment on care received at VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System.

Are you a Veteran who is not enrolled in VA health care? To find out if you are eligible to enroll in VA health care:
• Call VA toll-free at 877-222-8387, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Apply online at https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
• Download the mailable VA Form 10-10EZ at https://www.va.gov/find-forms/about-form-10-10ez/. Send the completed 10-10EZ with a copy of your DD214 to VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Attn: Patient Registration, University Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15240.

02/21/2026

Our Adaptive Air Rifle Clinic and Competition sponsored by Keystone Paralyzed Veterans of America is March 21-22 in Warrendale. To learn more and find out how to reserve your spot, visit:
• Air Rifle Clinic and Competition, Day 1, https://www.facebook.com/events/920427313642788
• Air Rifle Clinic and Competition, Day 2, https://www.facebook.com/events/1691780115131782

02/21/2026

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. To learn more, Veterans enrolled with us for health care can call 412-822-3000 and ask to speak with a dietitian.

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

02/21/2026

It can be really hard to ask for help. But we all need it sometimes. responders are here for you 24/7/365. https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/

02/20/2026

If you are the caregiver of a Veteran and want to learn more about our Caregiver Support Program (CSP) here at VA Pittsburgh, contact our CSP team at 412-822-2364.

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

Today, our Community Living Center was filled with smiles as we hosted a special “Thank You, Red Robin!” party! 🥳

Thanks to Red Robin’s incredible generosity, over 150 of our residents enjoyed a delicious takeout feast of juicy hamburgers, creamy mac & cheese, crispy fries, and of course, milkshakes to top it all off! 🍔🍟🥤

A huge shout-out to Red Robin for making this day extra special for our heroes. ❤️

Want to make a real difference for Veterans right here in Pittsburgh? Join us as a volunteer at VA Pittsburgh! Call 412-822-3098 today to learn how you can help those who served or visit https://www.va.gov/pittsburgh-health-care/work-with-us/volunteer-or-donate/

02/19/2026

Our tobacco-cessation programs here at VA Pittsburgh include a virtual class and other resources that are available at all our locations, including our outpatient clinics. To learn more, call 412-360-1720 or visit https://www.va.gov/pittsburgh-health-care/health-services/mental-health-care/.

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

CHERP is hiring at VA Pittsburgh!

The Center for Healthcare Evaluation, Research, and Promotion (CHERP) is seeking to fill positions for research assistants/coordinators, statisticians, peer specialists and program specialists/research assistants.

For more information, download the PDF at https://www.va.gov/files/2026-01/CHERP_Hiring_Jan2026.pdf.

02/18/2026

02/18/2026

Looking for a moment of peace and renewal? Join us today, Ash Wednesday (Feb. 18), from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in our chapels at our University Drive and Heinz locations. Our chaplains will be offering ashes. All are welcome.