Carl Vinson VA Medical Center Director, David. L. Whitmer, FACHE, is proud to announce that Dublin VA is partnering with the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) enabling three VBA employees to work at the Community Based Outpatient Clinic in Tifton, Georgia.

The ribbon cutting ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. on April 30 at the Tifton clinic located at 1824 Ridge Avenue North, Tifton, GA 31794. 

“Improving the Veterans experience is our top priority as we strive to provide world-class healthcare on our journey to becoming a High Reliability Organization,” Whitmer said.  “This allows Veterans to get updates on their claims and other benefits while receiving their healthcare at the same location. It also provides Veterans at Dublin VA and our other community-based outpatient clinics an opportunity to also speak with these representatives via video teleconference through scheduled appointments.”

VBA had staff located in the Tifton area and welcomed the opportunity to partner with VHA under one roof, providing a win-win situation for Dublin VA, the out-based VBA staff, and most of all, the Veterans who will receive services from VHA and VBA in one location. Another added benefit from co-locating at the Tifton Outpatient Clinic, it will reduce taxpayer expenses from leasing a separate facility.

“We’re proud to partner with VBA on this very special opportunity that will not only be a significant benefit to Veterans in Tifton and surrounding areas, but for enrolled Veterans at Dublin VAMC,” said Donna Ammons, DNP, Tifton Outpatient Clinic manager. “We often receive questions regarding benefits that we simply can’t answer since we work on the healthcare side of VA—but now Veterans will have the best of both worlds.”

Veterans typically manage their VBA benefits such as the Post 9/11 GI Bill, Vocational Rehabilitation, Compensation & Pension, VA Home Loan Guarantee, and a wealth of other benefits through the online portal www.ebenefits.va.gov. This new partnership allows Veterans to receive their healthcare and consult with benefits experts on other services the Veteran earned.

“Today we take the first big step towards an exciting collaboration with the Tifton VA Outpatient Clinic.  We look forward to providing increased access to services for all Veterans in Tifton” said Patrick Zondervan, Acting Director of the Atlanta VA Regional Office. 

VA’s mission to enhance the Veteran’s experience while continuously searching for ways to modernize is fulfilled through this new partnership. Veterans can receive world-class healthcare and meet with a VBA expert regarding status updates or to inquire what other benefits VA offers under one roof. 

For media inquiries and schedule interviews, please contact Carl Vinson VAMC Deputy Public Affairs Officer James W. Huckfeldt at 478-272-1210 ext. 3531 or via email at [email protected].