Veteran News

October 2025, Vol. 19, Issue 10

Pension Poaching Targets Veterans

Department of Veteran Affairs – The VA Office of Inspector General (OIG) warns Veterans and their families about pension poaching, a rising form of financial fraud. These scams target wartime Veterans and surviving spouses who qualify for VA pension benefits, exploiting age, disability, and limited income or resources.

Fraudsters use deceptive tactics to access Veterans’ benefits and personal funds. If you or someone you know receives VA pension payments, stay vigilant and watch for warning signs, including:

• Advisors claiming to help with benefits without VA accreditation
• Guarantees of eligibility without reviewing your full financial situation
• Offers to manage or redirect your pension payments through a third party
• Pressure to act quickly or sign incomplete/confusing paperwork
• Promises to move assets to “qualify” for pension benefits
• Requests for personal or financial information from unknown sources
• Unsolicited offers to assist with VA benefits for a fee

The VA OIG investigates crimes such as financial fraud, threats to VA staff or property, and actions that could harm patients, keeping Veterans informed about scams. If something seems suspicious, report it to the OIG hotline.

Let’s work together to protect those who served.

Reviews help us not only improve our products and services but also let others know that Mid-Cities Medical cares about delivering “World-Class Customer Service.”

OCT

Keep Your Information Private

Digital VA – In today’s digital world, protecting your online presence is crucial. Simple steps can make a big difference in safeguarding your data and privacy, as hackers and scammers often target personal information across social media, gaming platforms, and the internet.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) reminds you to protect your personal information with guidance from VA cybersecurity and privacy experts, along with tips from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC):

• Privacy Concerns – Contact your local VA Privacy Officer for complaints or questions about Veteran data.
• Fraud Reporting – Visit www.vsafe.gov or call 833-38V-SAFE (833-387-7233) to report suspected fraud.
• Stay Informed – Bookmark the VA Cybersecurity Spot for online safety updates.
• Identity Theft – Call VA at 1-855-578-5492 if you suspect you’re a victim.
• FTC Complaints – File a report directly with the Federal Trade Commission.

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Resources for Older Veterans

VA News – As you grow older or encounter health challenges that impact daily life, the VA is here to support you. With a variety of services and community partnerships, the VA helps aging and disabled Veterans stay independent and maintain control over their lives while managing the effects of illness, disability, or aging. The VA offers programs to help older Veterans stay independent and supported:

• Veteran Decision Aid – Checklist to choose VA resources and create a personalized health plan.
• Veteran Directed Care – Work with your caregiver to design a care and spending plan that supports independent living.
• Palliative Care – Manage symptoms to improve daily life and overall well-being.
• Adult Day Health Care – Get help with personal care, socialize, and stay active in your community.

VA also offers community resources online, by phone, and in person to support your specific needs, including:

• Benefits Checkup – Free service to identify programs and care you qualify for.
• National Aging and Disability Transportation Center – Offers transportation options for older adults and caregivers.

It’s never too late to access the VA health care you’ve earned. Talk to your primary care provider to see if you qualify for geriatric and extended care services.

“Freedom isn’t free. We will remember all those that have given their lives for our country. Thank you for your service.”

Advanced Travel Notice Requirements

Due to a growing number of patients neglecting the required two-week notification for travel, we want to reiterate the importance of timely communication. This policy is essential to ensure proper coordination and to avoid service disruptions.

Failure to provide at least 14 days’ notice may result in the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) declining to cover transportation costs. In such cases, patients will be responsible for:

• Coordinating and paying for their own oxygen services
• Arranging any necessary services at their end destination
• Covering all associated travel costs until VAMC coordination is reestablished

NOTE: To ensure availability and proper coordination, we strongly recommend submitting your request at least 14 days in advance, with 30 days’ notice being ideal.

This policy applies not only to outbound travel but also to return trips. Patients planning to return to the area should contact us between 14 to 30 days prior to travel to ensure their request is documented, necessary paperwork is completed, and their name is added to the appropriate branch’s route.

While we make every effort to accommodate all patients, Mid-Cities Medical cannot guarantee services for requests made with short or no notice. Early planning is key to ensuring smooth coordination and uninterrupted care.

Mid-Cities Medical has partnered with local, regional and national providers to assist individuals in identifying and overcoming barriers in order to have the services and supports that meet your individual strengths, abilities, priorities, and needs.

3017 Red Hawk Drive
Grand Prairie, Texas 75052

(888) 450-6676 Toll Free (TX)

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Emergency: Call 911

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