VA is backbone of American medical system

Coatesville VA Medical Center and Drexel University College of Medicine have been proud partners for 10years, collaborating to educate future health professionals, treat and heal Veterans, and make a difference in our communities.These future health professionals are the Nation’s healthcare workforce pipeline who will go on to care for Veterans and other patients in communities across the U.S.

Throughout this year, the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), a part of the U.S. Department of

Veterans Affairs,is celebrating its 75th anniversary. As part of this commemoration, on January 30,2021, VA celebrates 75 years of successful academic partnerships and commitment to its mission: “To educate for VA and for the Nation.” Throughout the country, Veterans Affairs Medical Centers (VAMCs) and academic institutions, including ours, are commemorating this anniversary by hosting awareness events, honoring trainees and employees, and more.

In partnership with its academic affiliates, VA has historically been a leader in developing new clinical disciplines, such as psychology, geriatric medicine, addictions psychiatry, and more to meet the changing needs of America’s healthcare system.

These innovations have benefitted all American citizens, to include Veterans. VA’s academic affiliations and programs have also significantly increased the quality of and access to care for our nation’s heroes.

Coatesville VAMC andDrexel University College of Medicine’s partnership is a prime example of how VA has advanced quality clinical services and comprehensive, holistic care for Veterans.Drexel University College of Medicine adds value to Veteran care delivery through its medical student rotations at Coatesville VAMC and resident rotations through its affiliation with Tower Health residency programs including the family practice residency based at Chestnut Hill Hospital.

Drexel University College

of Medicine’s continued and increasing participation in trainee rotations at Coatesville VA demonstrates the unique benefits our partnership provides for Veterans and our communities.

VA’s academic mission began in 1946, following the allied victory, when VA faced the imminent arrival of more than 100,000 new Veteran patients with only 1,000 physicians to treat them. To meet this challenge, VA struck a landmark deal with medical schools, establishing a remarkable partnership between VA and its academic affiliates.

We may have started with only physicians and nurses, but now we train approximately 120,000 health profession trainees in over 40 health disciplines each year. These trainees are our future clinicians and researchers who serve both Veterans and the American people with the highest standards of care and innovations to meet emerging health care needs.

VA trainees, residents, staff, and faculty deliver world-class Veteran health care every day, utilizing the latest technologies and evidence-based treatments. They are instilled with a sense of service that stems from learning about and caring for the individuals who served our nation in uniform. Their VA training experience, understanding, and knowledge gained through academic partnerships contributes to improving the health of Veterans and the communities where they live, work, raise families, and receive care.

It is an honor to be a part of the positive advancements and cuttingedge efforts while serving those who served our nation. We take pride in Coatesville VA Medical Center and Drexel University College of Medicine partnership’s achievements during the past 10years and look forward to continuing it with the passion to learn and power to heal.

Please join us in celebrating our partnership. Find out how you can learn more and how to participate by contacting me or Denise Selverian, Academic Coordinator, at 610-384-7711 extension 6130.

Goldman