The Loma Linda VA Medical Center continues to build on the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ nationwide momentum, delivering measurable results for Veterans across the Inland Empire and beyond, earning them a four-star rating in the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ 2025 Hospital Quality Star Ratings. As 2026 unfolds, the organization remains focused on building upon this strong performance, advancing excellence, safety, and access for the Veterans it proudly serves.
Since January 20, 2025, the VA has reduced the national backlog of Veterans waiting for benefits by more than 37 percent—helping former service members receive the decisions and support they deserve faster than ever before. At the same time, VA has opened 16 new health care clinics across the country, expanding access and bringing care closer to where Veterans live.
Access to timely appointments has also significantly improved. Since January 20, VA has offered nearly 1 million health care appointments outside of normal operating hours—including early mornings, evenings, and weekends—giving Veterans more flexibility and convenience in scheduling their care.
In fiscal year 2025, VA processed disability claims at record pace, reaching an all-time fiscal-year high of 2.52 million ratings claims, as of August 8. Major reforms have also made it easier for survivors to access the benefits they are entitled to, while expanded community care options are allowing VA-enrolled Veterans to receive treatment from non-VA providers more quickly and seamlessly.
To ensure facilities remain safe, modern, and effective, VA is investing an additional $800 million in infrastructure improvements nationwide. The department is also accelerating deployment of its integrated electronic health record system—enhancing coordination, efficiency, and continuity of care.
Through a strategic partnership with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, VA identified and recovered $106 million in duplicate billing—demonstrating responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. Additionally, tens of thousands of VA employees have returned to in-office work environments, strengthening collaboration and service delivery.
VA’s commitment to vulnerable Veterans remains strong. In fiscal year 2025 through June, the department has housed 37,534 homeless Veterans—changing lives and creating pathways to long-term stability. Together, these accomplishments reflect a system focused on accountability, modernization, and expanded access—ensuring that Veterans in the Loma Linda region and nationwide receive the high-quality care and benefits they have earned through their service.
As 2026 gets underway, Veterans and their families can look forward to continued improvements in access, modernization, and coordinated care. Building on this momentum, the Loma Linda VA Medical Center is poised to further expand appointment availability, strengthen community partnerships, and advance technology upgrades that make care more seamless and responsive. With a clear focus on service, accountability, and innovation, 2026 promises to bring even greater progress for the men and women who have served our nation.