In This Issue
Program news
Joel Kupersmith, MD, who has served as VA's chief research and development officer since 2005, is stepping down from the role this month. Kupersmith, a cardiologist and former medical school dean, is credited with several initiatives that have broadened the scope, impact, and efficiency of VA research
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Key findings
Researchers at the Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System who compared conventional in-person psychotherapy to therapy delivered through videoconferencing found that the video method worked just as well for treating posttraumatic stress disorder in Veterans
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A study led by a VA investigator and involving more than 934,000 women found that most women face no extra risk if they get a screening mammogram every two years instead of every year
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A simple "portable" meditative technique boosted spiritual well-being and self-efficacy among Vietnam-era Veterans with chronic posttraumatic stress disorder, reported researchers at the Society of Behavioral Medicine annual meeting in March
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Journal scan
A natural, nontoxic product called genistein-combined polysaccharide, or GCP, which is sold in health stores, could help extend life for certain prostate cancer patients, suggested a study by researchers with VA and the University of California, Davis
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In 2010, VA began moving to a new model of primary care called the Patient Aligned Care Teams or PACT. Now, a VA study has shown that patients at VA clinics that began adopting PACT features early on were at lower risk for avoidable hospitalizations, compared with patients at clinics that were slower to transition to the PACT model
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Technology horizons
A new drug for malaria-which affects millions worldwide, include U.S. troops in some locations-is getting closer to clinical trials. VA's Technology Transfer Program is helping to lay the groundwork for the drug to eventually be brought to market
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Related story: VA Technology Transfer has role in malaria invention
Career milestones
, was named director of Health Services Research and Development for VA...
, received the 2013 Under Secretary's Award for Outstanding Achievement in Health Services Research—the highest honor for a VA health services researcher...
, has won the 2013 Outstanding Scientific Achievement for Clinical Investigation Award from the American Geriatrics Society...
, received the William S. Middleton Award from VA's Biomedical and Laboratory Research and Development Service...
, is the recipient of the John B. Barnwell Award from VA's Clinical Research and Development Service...
, received the 2013 Paul B. Magnuson Award from VA's Rehabilitation Research and Development Service...
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