Department of Veterans Affairs

Research into psychedelic drugs was halted in the 1960s amid concern about recreational use. Now, the VA is among dozens of medical providers resuming that work.

Tampa doctors advised a delegation from Ukraine about how to rehabilitate people wounded during the country's ongoing war with Russia. Ukrainian medical specialists say they expect some soldiers and civilians will need lifelong support.

Deputy Executive Director Bob Asztalos of the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs told a state Senate committee that its wages are finally competitive, thanks to a $5.6 million boost in funding last year.

The law expands health care benefits for veterans who may have developed illnesses after toxic exposure during their service. The VA can start processing most claims on Jan. 1.

The House is expected to approve the Senate measure, sending it to President Joe Biden, who has said he'd sign comprehensive legislation immediately.

The new Lakeland clinic could help reduce wait times and how far veterans in Polk County have to travel for care.

Officials say a patient at the James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital had mild symptoms and recently returned from international travel. The St. Lucie case was also travel-related.

With new research released last year, Congress mandated a pilot program that will pay to train service dogs and place them in veterans' homes.

Facilities are reopening at a slower pace than many civilian health systems, but the VA recently started to expand in-person care.

Local VA facilities could expand in-person services to offer more routine care if downward trends in coronavirus cases continue, says Secretary Wilkie, but they have to be cautious to protect vulnerable patients.