MacDill SARC Receives Invitation to the National Conference for Women Veterans Coordinators

  • Published
  • By 6th Air Mobility Wing
  • Sexual Assualt Response Program
MacDill AFB, Fla. --  The collaborative partnership effort established by Dr. Eliza Zimmerman, 6th Air Mobility Wing Sexual Assault Response Coordinator, with the Bay Pines Veterans Medical Center Women Veterans Coordinator Program Military Sexual Trauma Center was recognized at the National WVC Conference in Minneapolis, MN. Dr. Mosley-Brown praised Dr. Zimmerman's collaborative efforts establishing a model relationship for VA WVC and DoD SAPR community nation-wide.

Dr. Zimmerman's accomplishments were emphasized during the opening speech by Mr. Michael Walcoff, Deputy Undersecretary for Veterans Benefits Washington DC. Other invited guest speakers to the WVC conference included Marianne Mathewson-Chapman Major General (Ret) Guard and Reserve Women Veterans, Wilma Vaught Brigadier General (Ret) President, Women in Military Service for America, Dr. Patricia Hayes, Chief Consultant Women Veterans Health Strategic Health Care Group, Dr. Roksana Korchynsky Veterans Affairs Clinic Trauma Specialist, Dr. Shirley Quarles, Colonel (Ret) Chairwoman, Veterans Advisory Committee on Women Veterans.

"The WVC is responsible for oversight when a disability claim is filed by a veteran affected by Military Sexual Trauma while on active duty," said Elaine Westermeyer, Women Veterans Coordinator for Veterans Benefits Administration St. Petersburg Regional Office Florida. "Any residual injuries that could come about as a result of the sexual assault such as, mental health, medical and or physical problems will be used to establish a disability claim and medical services for the military member who has suffered a sexual assault while on active duty.

"There is no time limiting factor to serve on active duty or to have served in a war zone to be entitled to MST services at no cost with no co-pay."

If you have been a victim of sexual assault and have further questions relating to Veterans Affairs Military Sexual Trauma Center and/or Veteran Benefits please call 1-800-827-1000 (X5830). The MacDill AFB Sexual Assault hotline is 813-828-7272 24-7 365.