Post-9/11 veterans group’s project to modernize VA healthcare includes suicide prevention focus

Former VA Secretary David Shulkin, center, speaking at the National Press Club during the launch event for the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America’s Modernization of Veterans Healthcare Project on October 23, 2025. Seated, from left to right, are IAVA Board Chairman Wayne Smith, IAVA Vice President of External Affairs Lou Elliott-Cysewski and IAVA CEO Dr. Kyleanne Hunter. Edward Graham/staff

A leading veterans organization for post-9/11 servicemembers is spearheading an initiative to modernize healthcare operations across the Department of Veterans Affairs, with the project outlining an initial set of priorities that include suicide prevention and opioid-free pain management.

The Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America announced the launch of the effort — called the Modernization of Veterans Healthcare Project — at the National Press Club on Thursday. The initiative is being led by David Shulkin, who served as VA secretary from 2017 to 2018 during the first Trump administration ...