2012 Report to the Community - VISN 8

Dear Veterans, Families and Friends,THIS ANNUAL REPORT IS MORE THAN ACOLLECTION OF FACTS AND FIGURES. IT TELLSOUR STORY OF POSITIVE MOVEMENT FORWARDWITH A FOCUS GROUNDED IN SERVING OURPATIENTS IN THE LARGEST, BUSIEST VA HEALTHCARE NETWORK IN THE NATION.During 2012 in VISN 8, we saw more patients, filled more prescriptions, and performedmore mammograms than any other network in the VA.We’ve grown to serve even more Veterans with larger clinics that replaced older ones,expanded existing facilities and services, and created new specialty programs to bettermeet our patients’ expectations.We’re putting every dollar to work--investing in new equipment, technology andemployee training so our patients benefit from the latest medical advances.We’re committed to being greener across our network of hospitals and clinics and we’regetting recognized for these efforts with “Green Globe” awards for environmental andenergy efficiency.Special populations like women, homeless and returning Veterans and those living inrural areas are getting the specialized services they need and deserve--when and wherethey need it most.Having the Veteran truly at the center of their health care is central to our efforts. We areengaged in a Cultural Transformation to do just that by empowering our employees toimprove patient experiences through learning, discovery and continuous improvement.As we continue this journey, we need to stay a step or two ahead in an ever-changinghealth care environment. In 2013, I see even more positive changes on the horizon aswe continue to provide exceptional health care for Veterans in the same way they haveworked tirelessly to preserve the freedom we all enjoy.With gratitude,Nevin M. Weaver, FACHEVISN 8 Network Directorwww.visn8.va.gov3