VETERANS PRESS: Cd'A VA Clinic offers medical help to local veterans

The Coeur d’Alene VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic has been a clear comfort for many veterans since it opened in August 2014. 

This VA Clinic offers a range of primary care and specialty health services including nutrition counseling and laboratory, eyeglass and prosthetics services. For veterans with type 1 or 2 diabetes, they can provide insulin therapy and other necessary survival and self-management skills. 

They also provide addiction counseling and combat related post-traumatic stress counseling. Another important service is a substance abuse treatment program. The Coeur d'Alene VA Clinic can pay for and fill prescriptions up to a 14-day supply.

Not all veterans eligible for VA health care are able to travel to Spokane for services. 

“I’ve had nothing but fantastic experience with the Coeur d'Alene clinic," said one veteran. "They arranged counseling for my PTSD when I retired and started having flashbacks and nightmares again.” 

He said he also received services for a heart condition and physical therapy for a pulled hamstring and knee problem. 

“They give great service, excellent care and outstanding follow-through," he said. 

Another veteran said she has been going to the Coeur d'Alene VA Clinic for more than a year. 

"They are very professional and treated me wonderfully," this veteran said. "My doctor is fantastic.” 

She also said she was wary of going to the VA after having a bad experience when she retired from the military, but now is working on getting hearing aids and dental care.

In 2023, about 5,000 veterans were served, according to Brenda Baker, Cd'A clinic manager.

“We see around 150 veterans per day throughout the clinic," Baker said. "Some of our biggest challenges are no X-ray or emergency services. We need more space, services and another primary care provider.”

However, she is hopeful for the future and said there are plans for more medicine and audiology services.

The VA Clinic is located at 915 W. Emma Ave., Coeur d'Alene.

Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Info: 208-665-1700 or visit www.va.gov/communitycareclinic.