Veteran News

September 2025, Vol. 19, Issue 9

September is National Recovery Month

VA News – The VA provides a wide range of mental health resources, information, and treatment options that are available to Veterans, their supporters, and the general public. Its goal is to connect individuals with both clinical care and peer support to help manage and overcome mental health challenges.

After leaving the military, Veterans may face a variety of life events, opportunities, and challenges. At times, symptoms – whether mild, moderate, or severe – can make daily life harder to manage. Whatever you may be going through, support is available to help you get back on track. Countless Veterans have found strength in reaching out and making a connection.

With more treatment options and easier access to care than ever before, the VA offers support for many mental health conditions and related issues, while also encouraging Veterans to prioritize their mental health and share their experiences as a step toward improved wellbeing.

Through MakeTheConnection.net, Veterans and their loved ones can find information and resources on issues that affect their mental health, daily lives, and overall wellness. In addition, the VA offers programs tailored to the unique stressors and experiences Veterans face, ensuring that mental health support is personalized to meet their needs.

Reviews help us not only improve our products and services but also let others know that Mid-Cities Medical cares about delivering “World-Class Customer Service.”

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Check on Your Veteran Buddy!

VA News – Veteran Buddy Checks encourage Veterans to connect – or reconnect – with fellow Veterans, simply to check in. The program builds on the success of the American Legion’s Buddy Check initiative and the Veteran Wellness Alliance’s Get Involved program.

The goal is to strengthen peer-to-peer connections, support mental health, and increase access to both VA and community resources. Veteran Buddy Check training equips you to recognize signs of distress and introduces resources you can recommend when needed.

Ways to get involved:

• Take the pledge – Commit to reaching out and checking in.
• Take the training – Watch the Buddy Check Week peer wellness training video.
• Find buddies – Connect with peers, families, and fellow service members on TogetherWeServed and RallyPoint to share stories and ask questions.

If you would like to download a print-version of this or previous month’s newsletter, including additional content, monthly calendar, word search, recipes, etc…

Advanced Travel Notice Requirements

Due to a growing number of patients neglecting the required two-week notification for travel, we want to reiterate the importance of timely communication. This policy is essential to ensure proper coordination and to avoid service disruptions.

Failure to provide at least 14 days’ notice may result in the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) declining to cover transportation costs. In such cases, patients will be responsible for:

• Coordinating and paying for their own oxygen services
• Arranging any necessary services at their end destination
• Covering all associated travel costs until VAMC coordination is reestablished

NOTE: To ensure availability and proper coordination, we strongly recommend submitting your request at least 14 days in advance, with 30 days’ notice being ideal.

This policy applies not only to outbound travel but also to return trips. Patients planning to return to the area should contact us between 14 to 30 days prior to travel to ensure their request is documented, necessary paperwork is completed, and their name is added to the appropriate branch’s route.

While we make every effort to accommodate all patients, Mid-Cities Medical cannot guarantee services for requests made with short or no notice. Early planning is key to ensuring smooth coordination and uninterrupted care.

“Freedom isn’t free. We will remember all those that have given their lives for our country. Thank you for your service.”

Fire Safety Goes Beyond “Just Smoking”

As patients using oxygen, it is crucial to remain aware of potential fire hazards. While oxygen itself is not flammable, it acts as an accelerant. This means that when combined with heat or an open flame and a fuel source such as clothing, skin, or hair, it can lead to a fire. Like gasoline on a woodpile, oxygen increases the risk of combustion, but a fire will not start unless heat, flames, or sparks are introduced.

As you move around your home and community, it’s essential to recognize heat sources that could pose a danger to you, your family, and others. Always remember that anything that generates heat, has an open flame, or produces sparks presents a fire risk for you. Stay alert for potential fire hazards such as gas or propane appliances, barbecue grills and fire pits, candles, incense burners, cooking equipment with heating elements, matches, lighters, and various tools.

Patients and caregivers often emphasize “Smoking” when considering oxygen safety, but it’s important to think beyond cigarettes and vape pens. Instead, focus on identifying heat sources by asking, “What’s hot?” “What’s dangerous?” and “What could ignite my oxygen?” Always prioritize oxygen safety by turning off your oxygen, staying at least 25 feet away from your equipment, and waiting 15 minutes before engaging with any source of fire, heat, or open flame. Your life, health, and safety should always be your top priority.

Mid-Cities Medical has partnered with local, regional and national providers to assist individuals in identifying and overcoming barriers in order to have the services and supports that meet your individual strengths, abilities, priorities, and needs.

3017 Red Hawk Drive
Grand Prairie, Texas 75052

(888) 450-6676 Toll Free (TX)

Patient Care: 24/7/365
Emergency: Call 911

(833) 986-4267 Toll Free (AZ & CA)