Not Your Father’s VA: A History of the Modern Transformation of the Veterans Health Care System
In 2009, the Veteran’s Health Administration (VHA) hired HAI to update its official history, which had not been done since Robinson E. Adkins’ comprehensive 1967 report to Congress, “Medical Care of Veterans.”
To tell the VHA’s sweeping story, HAI conducted extensive research at the Central Office of the Department of Veterans Affairs in Washington, D.C., and several other federal repositories and libraries across the country. The team conducted more than 20 oral histories with current and former senior VHA officials throughout the course of their research.
In 2012, HAI delivered the final report, entitled Not Your Father’s VA: A History of the Modern Transformation of the Veterans Health Care System. It chronicles the development of federal veterans’ health care from the colonial period to the 21st century, with particular emphasis on its transformation into a more modern and streamlined health care system under the leadership of Under Secretary for Health Dr. Kenneth W. Kizer during the 1990s.
Preserve and Activate Your Heritage
Organizations across sectors — from universities and museums to corporations, nonprofits, and government agencies — rely on strong heritage practices to protect the stories, collections, and records that shape identity and inspire future generations.
HAI's Heritage Services include:
- Archival Services & Collections Processing
- Digitization & Digital Preservation
- Records & Information Management
- Historical Research & Storytelling
- Exhibits, Interpretation & Digital Experiences
- ArchivalOne and PastView Partnership
- HeritageAdvantage CoLab
We help institutions safeguard their past so they can lead with clarity, credibility, and purpose. Let's preserve and activate your organization's heritage together.