VA Under Secretary for Health Shereef Elnahal visited the Jackson Health Care System’s G. Montgomery VA for a tour to get an up-close look at how the facility is operated, and offered praise for the staff and its achievements.

According to a VA news release, Tracy Ruger, director of facility management service, led the tour with Enahal; Dr. Skye McDougall, network director of VISN 16; and Kai Mentzer, director of the medical center.

“The dedication and exceptional work of the staff at Montgomery VA truly exemplify the spirit of VA’s health care mission,” Elnahal said in the news release. “Their commitment to improving the lives of veterans is inspiring and they serve as a shining example for the entire VA community,”

During the tour, Ruger pointed out the facility is promoting efforts to update the center and offer additional services for veterans as part of a mission to meet the shifting needs of its patients, according to the release.

The tour included a stop at the Women’s Health Clinic, where Women’s Health Program Manager Debra Pierce-Robinson provided a detailed overview of the services developed to meet the needs of female veterans, the release said. The Montgomery VA’s mammography screening timing is the second best in the nation.

The release also noted Elnahal made a stop at the Community Living Center, and Nurse Managers Aliscia Simon and Monica Cooper highlighted the care offered to the residents, resulting in the center receiving a five-star rating.

Additionally, an employee town hall was held, and Elnahal recognized employees for their continued support of the VA’s health care goals, noting they are making a difference in the lives of veterans through their work, the release said.

Surgeon Dr. Rajesh Kuruba was commended for his efforts during a consultation with the veteran who had recently been diagnosed with colon cancer. The veteran underwent a robotic right hemicolectomy, according to the release.