Additional Services & Program Descriptions

Homeless Veterans Program
The homeless veterans program, comprised of staff from other network Veterans Affairs Medical Centers, outpatient clinics, and the regional office; coordinates and integrates various initiatives so to provide consistent, high-quality health care for homeless veterans in South Florida. In 2002, more than 2,000 homeless veterans successfully accessed VA care by registering with the Health Care for Homeless Veterans Bayside Residence program. This residence program provides transitional living environments and supportive re-entry into the community for veterans.

Women Veterans Healthcare
The Women's Health Clinic opened in October 1991 and provides a comfortable, private environment for female veterans. A multidisciplinary team of experts offers comprehensive services to women. Walk-ins are welcome.

Services offered include:

• Primary Care
• Women's Wellness Clinics
• Gynecology
• Sexual Trauma Assessment and Counseling
• Social Work
• Preventive Care
• Visiting Hours
• Visiting hours vary. Visiting times may be obtained at the information desk or nursing station or by calling 305-324-3399.

A family room for visitors of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients is located on the third floor.

Children under 15 are not allowed above the second floor without special permission from the physician or nurse on the ward.

Smoking Policy
Smoking is strictly prohibited within the Veterans Affairs Medical Center. There are designated smoking areas located near the south, east, and west parking lots.

Parking
Inpatients: There are no provisions for inpatient parking; however, a parking garage across from the Veterans Affairs Medical Center is available.

Outpatients: Outpatients may take advantage of our free valet parking, available at the main entrance.

Patient Health Education
The patient health education library/classroom is located on the second floor, Room A-210. Patients and their families are encouraged to come to the library/classroom for educational classes; written educational materials on health topics such as diseases, special procedures, drug information, and health promotion; health-related audiovisuals, and special materials in Spanish or large print.

If assistance is needed, patients may ask their nurse to call the Patient Health Library.

Pharmacy
Patients may obtain drug information after discharge by calling the Pharmacy at 305-324-4455, ext. 3237.

Personal Belongings

• The VA Medical Center does not encourage patients to bring money or valuables when admitted. Patients keeping these items do so at their own risk. Personal belongings brought to the VA Medical Center should be limited.
• The VA Medical Center will assume responsibility for patient funds deposited with the Agent Cashier, room 1A-146, and items of value turned in to the Patient Effects Clerk, room B-101.
• Patients are encouraged to bring hygiene items for personal care.
• Patients’ personal medication will be maintained by Pharmacy Service until disposition is determined by the attending physician.

Security
VA police are on the premises at all times. Cars parked illegally will be ticketed and towed at owner's expense.

Convenience Services
The center offers veterans a variety of convenient services, including a food court and retail store.