Lohnes Law PLLC

01/16/2026

🤖 VA inspectors general raise concerns about AI tools being used by medical staff — particularly around patient safety and oversight.

A recent watchdog advisory warns that at least two AI chat tools currently in use at VA health facilities — including Microsoft Copilot — haven’t been fully reviewed by patient safety offices, posing potential risks related to clinical accuracy, data privacy, and medical record integrity. The lack of a standardized process for evaluating these tools could complicate safe implementation across VA care settings.

Key issues flagged include:
• VA’s use of AI tools without formal patient safety review;
• Concerns that there’s no uniform mechanism to track or resolve AI-related risks;
• Potential implications for quality of care, documentation, and privacy protections.

At Lohnes Law, we’re watching these developments closely. Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence could have wide-ranging effects on clinical decision-making, health records, and how conditions are documented for VA benefits claims. Veterans deserve safe, reliable, and thoroughly reviewed tools — especially when medical decisions and disability ratings are on the line.

👉 If you have concerns about VA health care, AI use, or how your medical records and treatment impact your disability claim, talk with an attorney before your appointment.

Two AI chat tools, including Microsoft Copilot, are in use at the VA but have not been reviewed by patient safety offices.

01/15/2026

🇺🇸 VA disability ratings still rely on criteria rooted in the 1940s — it is time for a modern overhaul.

According to a recent Stars and Stripes report, much of how the Department of Veterans Affairs determines disability compensation today traces back to judgments about service-connected conditions and average earnings loss made 80 years ago, with parts of the system still anchored to outdated medical and economic data. This can mean some veterans are over- or under-compensated, because modern medicine and work environments look very different than they did in the 1940s.

At Lohnes Law, we see how antiquated criteria can impact real claims and real lives. Veterans deserve a disability rating system that reflects today’s medical science, labor market, and quality-of-life realities — not standards created in a different era.

⚖️ We’re encouraged that this issue is getting attention from Congress and federal watchdogs, and we’ll continue to follow efforts to modernize the VA’s disability rating process. In the meantime, if your rating doesn’t reflect the full impact of your service-connected conditions, we’re here to help you pursue the evidence and legal strategies you deserve.

📌 You served under modern conditions — your benefits should be evaluated the same way.

Criteria the VA developed in 1945 do not align with modern medicine, employment and the impact of disabilities on a veteran’s earnings potential.

01/15/2026

⚠️ New VA apportionment rule limits when disability benefits can be shared with dependents — and we disagree with it.

The Department of Veterans Affairs recently updated its regulations to significantly restrict apportionments — the process by which a portion of a veteran’s compensation, pension, or Dependency & Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is paid directly to a dependent. Under the new rule, need-based apportionments will no longer be granted in most situations starting February 9, 2026.

An apportionment has historically helped families in unique financial need — for example, when a veteran isn’t living with a spouse or isn’t reasonably supporting their dependents. Now, VA says those decisions should generally be left to state family courts. (

At Lohnes Law, we do not support this change. Limiting apportionments could leave some dependents without critical financial support and force families into complicated, expensive, and often inequitable family-court proceedings.

If your benefits situation has been affected by apportionment changes — or if you’re concerned about how this rule could impact your family’s financial stability — we’re here to help you understand your rights and options under the law.

A new ruling limits the circumstances for apportionment of compensation, pension and DIC benefits, and will stop making need-based apportionments going forward.

01/14/2026

Opening up about what you’re going through can make it easier to find support and prevent a crisis before it happens. Whenever you need to talk, the Veterans Crisis Line is here to listen.
Dial 988 then Press 1, chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat, or text 838255.

01/14/2026

✨ A new focus on improving veterans' health care — with veterans front and center.

The Secretary of Veterans Affairs recently announced a significant effort to reorganize the Veterans Health Administration with the stated goal of improving care by reducing administrative burdens and increasing support for hospitals and clinics that serve veterans directly. VA leadership stated that the plan is centered on the idea that there’s “one chance to get it right” when it comes to meeting veterans’ needs.

While details will continue to unfold, and change always takes time, this renewed emphasis on patient-focused care and streamlined support gives many veterans and advocates reason for optimism about how the VA health system can evolve.

At Lohnes Law, we believe that when veterans have access to better healthcare, it strengthens not only their well-being but also their ability to pursue the benefits they’ve earned. We’ll continue to watch these developments and share updates that matter to you.

A planned overhaul of the Veterans Health Administration will improve veterans care, Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins said Monday.

01/13/2026

🇺🇸 SHARE: A no-cost path to healing for veterans with brain injury and PTSD.

The SHARE Military Initiative at Shepherd Center in Atlanta provides comprehensive, individualized rehabilitation for U.S. service members, veterans, and first responders coping with traumatic brain injuries (TBI), concussions, and co-occurring mental-health challenges like PTSD — all at no cost to participants. Programs include physical, cognitive, and psychological therapies, transition support, life-skills coaching, and community reintegration services tailored to each person’s needs. 

SHARE’s interdisciplinary care team — including neurologists, therapists, counselors, and peer support specialists — works collaboratively to help individuals reclaim purpose, rebuild confidence, and reconnect with life after injury. 

If you or a loved one are struggling with the invisible wounds of service, learning about programs like SHARE can be an important part of exploring complementary support alongside your VA care and benefits.

🔗 Learn more or reach out to SHARE’s admissions team: 404-603-4314. 

Care for U.S. service members and first responders with brain injury and related physical and psychological health concerns.

01/12/2026

🧠 A veteran’s search for healing leads him to an unconventional treatment abroad.

A recent The War Horse report tells the story of a U.S. veteran who traveled to Mexico to undergo ibogaine therapy, a psychedelic treatment some veterans are exploring in hopes of relieving trauma and mental-health symptoms after traditional care didn’t help. Patients at clinics there pay significant sums for the experience, which remains largely unproven and isn’t FDA-approved in the United States.

While some participants report meaningful personal experiences, ibogaine and similar psychedelics have limited research, unclear long-term effects, and legal restrictions in the U.S. Some early studies and documentaries have spotlighted the growing interest in such therapies for PTSD and TBI. However, the science is still emerging and should be interpreted with caution.

At Lohnes Law, we understand that veterans often pursue multiple paths in search of healing and support — and evolving treatments raise essential questions about access to care, safety, and documentation of service-connected conditions when pursuing VA benefits.

📌 If you’re considering nontraditional treatments or have questions about how they may relate to your VA disability claim, it’s essential to talk with your healthcare providers and legal advocate first. We are here to help.

A veteran travels to Mexico twice for psychedelic treatment to help him heal from the traumas after serving in the Afghanistan and Iraq Wars.

01/12/2026

🇺🇸 Wounded veterans cycling through the Florida Keys on the annual Soldier Ride.

Dozens of wounded service members — some using adaptive bicycles to accommodate combat injuries — are taking part in the Florida Keys Soldier Ride, organized by the Wounded Warrior Project. Riders travel iconic stretches like the Overseas Highway and Seven Mile Bridge while reconnecting with fellow veterans and supporters, raising awareness, and funds for ongoing rehabilitative programs.

At Lohnes Law, we’re inspired by events like this that foster community, resilience, and healing for veterans with both visible and invisible wounds. Seeing injured warriors take on physical challenges alongside peer support reminds us that recovery and connection come in many forms.

If you or a loved one are navigating challenges related to service-connected injuries, disability benefits, or access to care, we’re here to help you understand your rights and options.

A total of 45 men and women, as well as their supporters, are participating in the cycling event organized by the Wounded Warrior Project.

01/09/2026

🕊️ A tragic loss highlights the ongoing veteran mental-health crisis.

A former Marine, Enrique Ramos Jr., died by su***de in the parking lot of a VA medical facility in San Antonio — the second veteran su***de at that location this year — underscoring the very real struggles many veterans face in accessing timely, effective mental-health care.

Veteran su***de remains a deeply painful issue for families and communities, and no single story captures the full scope of the challenge. Resources like the Veterans Crisis Line (Dial 988 & Press 1, or text 838255) are available 24/7 to provide free, confidential support to anyone in crisis or concerned about a veteran.

At Lohnes Law, our hearts go out to Enrique’s family, friends, and the broader veteran community. We know that legal and healthcare systems can feel overwhelming when you or a loved one is struggling — and that legal guidance around VA benefits and care can make a significant difference in accessing the necessary support. If you’re navigating the VA system and need help understanding your rights, we’re here to talk.

💬 You are not alone. There is help and support.� If you or someone you know is struggling right now, please reach out to the Veterans Crisis Line: 988 → Press 1 or text 838255.

***dePrevention

A former Marine, Enrique Ramos Jr., died by su***de at a San Antonio VA hospital in December, marking the second su***de at the same facility in 2025. Another veteran, Navy veteran Mark Miller, died under similar circumstances earlier this year. The deaths have intensified scrutiny of veteran mental...

01/08/2026

📲 The VA reports 91.7% of veterans using telehealth say they’re satisfied ... but we know not every veteran’s experience is the same.

While many veterans may find VA telehealth convenient, others struggle to get the care they need virtually — especially when complex medical questions or benefits issues are involved, or when privacy and thorough documentation are most important.

At Lohnes Law, we strongly recommend consulting with an accredited attorney before your appointment, either in person or by phone, so that your case is fully understood and you’re prepared to present your evidence effectively.

Your healthcare and your legal representation deserve clarity, attention, and direct communication — not assumptions based solely on percentages.

Veterans’ trust in and satisfaction with VA telehealth continued to rise for the fifth year in a row.

01/07/2026

⚠️ Federal watchdog raises concerns about safety hazards for some patients at VA hospitals.

The Department of Veterans Affairs Inspector General recently identified physical safety risks at multiple VA medical facilities — including loose wiring, sharp edges, and malfunctioning equipment — that could pose dangers to mental-health patients if not addressed. The report emphasizes the need for attention and corrective action to enhance safety for vulnerable patients.

At Lohnes Law, we are committed to the health, well-being, and quality of care for veterans. Facility conditions, access to safe care, and appropriate therapeutic environments are important factors not only for treatment but also for veterans navigating the VA system.

If you’ve experienced safety concerns, care gaps, or other problems during VA treatment, it’s important to know your rights and options — including how these issues may intersect with your disability claims or appeals. We’re here to help you understand and pursue what you’ve earned.

The VA Inspector General found safety risks for mental health patients at a Massachusetts hospital and reported “similar concerns” at others.