On September 21st, the Department of Veterans Affairs released a statement in which they promised that “21st century technology will improve service.” A new, multi-year program called Veterans Relationship Management, or VRM, pledges to “greatly improve veterans’ access to health care and benefits information.”
VA Secretary Erik Shineski believes that the VRM will definitely enhance the way that today’s veterans access health and other benefits information through the use of technology.
“Veterans will have a better experience when they contact VA,” Sec. Shineski said. “Our employees will be able to quickly convey accurate, up-to-date information through call centers and the Internet.”
Previously, many vets had complained that the VA was slow, disorganized, and complicated. Veterans suffering from certain service-related diseases, like PTSD, often struggled to get answers and access to the services they needed. Injured vets often waited what most would consider far too long to receive benefits.
By the start of 2011, the VRM program will offer improved telephone assistance in an attempt to connect vets with a VA call agent faster. Calls will be recorded and reviewed by the VA, so that VA employees can continuously find ways to improve their interaction with veterans. The VA plans to introduce enhancements through the VRM program every six months, to give each new offering time to be adjusted before offering another new service.
The most exciting aspect of the new VRM program is a website, ebenefits.va.gov, which “puts the veteran in the driver’s seat” when it comes to finding the information they need. Now, both veterans and active service members can sign in to the website and access a range of information, including personnel records, compensation and pension claim information, and their VA loan eligibility certificates.
There are currently 57 VA regional offices across the nation, offering assistance to veterans and their families, as well as the surviving family members of those killed. If you or someone you love is wondering whether or not they qualify for certain VA benefits, call 1-800-827-1000.
For vets suffering from certain service-connected illnesses, including mesothelioma, a cancer attributed to asbestos exposure on naval ships, the receipt of benefits and other compensation is especially important. If you served in the military and are suffering from an asbestos disease, speak with your doctor about whether or not your illness can be conclusively connected to your military service.
