Recent VA News Releases
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To view and download VA news release, please visit the following
Internet address:

http://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel

VA Warns of Telephone Prescription Scam

WASHINGTON (Oct. 19, 2005) - The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is
warning veterans not to give credit card numbers over the phone to
callers claiming to update VA prescription information.

"Some unscrupulous scammers have targeted America's veterans, especially
our older veterans," said the Honorable R. James Nicholson, Secretary of
Veterans Affairs. "VA does not call veterans and ask them to disclose
personal financial information over the phone."

The latest scam, currently centered in the Midwest, comes from callers
who identify themselves as working for the "Patient Care Group." They
say VA recently changed procedures for dispensing prescriptions and ask
for the veteran's credit card number.

"VA has not changed its processes for dispensing prescription
medicines," Nicholson said. "And we've definitely not changed our
long-standing commitment to protect the personal information of our
veterans."

Veterans with questions about VA services should contact the nearest VA
medical center or call, toll-free, 1-877-222-8387.