Veterans care

Spouses of former military members are now fifth in the priority list to be admitted to one of the state's nine veterans' care facilities. Eight are skilled nursing facilities and one is an assisted living facility.

The expanded eligibility would apply to veterans’ nursing homes and what are known as domiciliary homes. The state operates eight skilled nursing facilities and one assisted living facility.

The house allows military families to avoid staying in costly hotel rooms or leave loved ones alone during their care at the largest VA health care system in the country.

Sparing veterans and defense spending, as Republicans promise, would be extremely difficult, requiring cuts of more than 20% in other parts of the budget.

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.

Innisfree Hotels has started its own in-company initiative to train employees working with veterans or individuals experiencing mental health problems with the help of Fire Watch’s Watch Stander program.

Some pharmacies were small, independent operations that decided not to participate next year because of the lowered reimbursements. But they were surprised by an early dismissal, and patients with specialized needs could face difficulties in the transition.

The center in Temple Terrace will serve as a one-stop shop for veterans experiencing mental and behavioral health issues. The VA is also starting to build a health clinic in Lakeland.

More than 2 million American children and teenagers live with a wounded or ill veteran. Many help with care and face challenges like stress, anxiety, and social isolation.

Burnout is a common problem for millions of military caregivers. And for many of them, the pandemic has made things even harder.