Department of Veterans Affairs facilities in Los Angeles remain open and services are operational as wildfires continue to burn in southern California.
“Our hearts go out to all those impacted by the tragic fires. The VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System (VAGLAHS) leadership team continues to receive updates from local emergency response personnel and have made operational adjustments for the safety of our staff and the veterans in their care,” VA spokesman Terrence Hayes said in a statement to Connecting Vets. “Our posture continues to evolve as the fires persist. VAGLAHS will continue to monitor the situation and are prepared to implement additional safety measures, as necessary.”
The wildfires, fueled by high Santa Ana winds, broke out on Jan. 7. The blazes have scorched thousands of acres in Southern California, turning homes and businesses into ash and leaving at least 24 dead.
The VA’s main hospital, emergency department, and allof its Community-Based Outpatient Clinics in the Los Angeles area are open. Hayes noted that the San Gabriel Valley VA Clinic, which had previously been in an evacuation zone, re-opened Tuesay.
“Veterans at higher risk residing on the north side of the West Los Angeles campus were relocated as a precautionary measure,” Hayes said. “Veterans in the Community Living Center were relocated to healthcare facilities within Veterans Integrated Services Network 22.”
A shelter especially established for veterans who need to evacuate has been opened at the Bob Hope Patriotic Hall, which is the headquarters for Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. Hayes said the shelter is being operated in partnership the Los Angeles County and the American Red Cross.
VA has also proactively reached out to share updates and resources to veterans and employees potentially impacted by the fires, Hayes continued.
Veterans in need of disaster-related assistance can call the VAGLAHS resource line at 877-251-7295 for information and support. Phone support is available 24/7 through the VISN 22 Clinical Contact Center at 1-800-952-4852, Option 2 for virtual care and support (including pharmacy) to veterans.
For the latest updates on VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, visit here. More information can also be found here.
Reach Julia LeDoux at Julia@connectingvets.com.