An expansion of the Tullahoma Veterans Affairs Clinic is nearing completion, boosting access to care for an additional 1,800 eligible patients, to include active duty Airmen. Officials anticipate the clinic will begin seeing new patients June 1.
“This expansion reflects the strength of the partnership between VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System and Arnold Air Force Base and our shared commitment to those who serve,” said Dr. Bridget Brozyna, TVHS Interim Deputy Executive Director. “Since first opening in 2000, the Tullahoma VA Clinic has represented a unique collaboration between VA and the Department of War, and it is especially meaningful to see that partnership continue to grow. This VA-DOW partnership in Tennessee demonstrates what’s possible when we work together to meet the needs of our veteran and military communities.”
The Tullahoma VA Clinic at Arnold AFB is one of more than two dozen facilities that fall under VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System’s umbrella. It currently serves approximately 1,200 veterans.
As part of the expansion, VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System will hire two additional primary care providers and their teams. New medical equipment has been ordered and installed to meet the increased patient demand. The clinic is now an authorized Tricare Network Provider and part of the Tricare referral system to enhance the delivery of care for the Arnold AFB Airmen.
“This Air Force-VA partnership is a true force-multiplier across the board,” said Col. Eric Withrow, AEDC Test Support Division Chief. “It provides our active-duty personnel with immediate, onsite care delivered by physicians who deeply understand the unique realities of military life. Simultaneously, operating from an on-base facility significantly reduces overhead for the VA. An added benefit is this initiative welcomes more veterans back to a military installation to fully enjoy the benefits they’ve earned.”
The partnership between VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System and Arnold AFB began in 1995. In January of that year, officials opened a Department of War and VA primary care clinic at Arnold, the result of a joint venture between the Alvin C. York VA Medical Center in Murfreesboro and AEDC.
Continued growth of the Tullahoma area played a key role in the current healthcare expansion. According to VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, the veteran population in Tullahoma is expected to grow 12% in the next five years.
The expansion enhances access to health care for both veterans and active duty Airmen. It reduces the time Airmen spend away from the base for medical appointments and fosters a smooth transition for veterans seeking care after leaving the service.
“The collaboration and team effort to make this happen for both our active duty and our veterans has been incredible to witness,” said Col. (Dr.) Tory Woodard, Air Force Materiel Command Deputy Command Surgeon. “I am very excited to be part of the team supporting our patients, past and present, as well as the Arnold Air Force Base mission.”
“This collaboration represents a vital step forward in delivering comprehensive, timely and high-quality care to those who serve our nation,” continued William Russell, AEDC Logistics and Health Services Chief. “The model of resource sharing is something both the VA and the Air Force are looking to expand at other bases in the next few years.”
VA personnel can assist active-duty Airmen in registering for care at the Tullahoma VA Clinic. For more information, individuals can contact 615-225-2715.