Thank you, Sheri.
We are now on slide 7.
Good afternoon. My name is Janice Burke, and I am the director of strategic policy integration.
I as well am very pleased to be here this afternoon to discuss the implementation of the benefits browser and how it will provide improved and more timely access to information on programs, services, and policies that are important and relevant to veterans and their families.
As Sheri indicated, as a result of listening and working closely with our veteran stakeholders, this information is now available in one location, making it easier for veterans and their families to obtain the information they need when they need it. The really good news part of the browser program is that some information, such as program policies, is now available for the first time. This is because one of our transformation commitments was to renew and simplify all new program policies and make them available online for our veterans and their families.
I'm pleased to say that approximately two-thirds of our program policies are now available on the benefits browser. These policies pertain to the following programs: our treatment program; rehabilitation; career transition services; income support; and financial benefits, such as earnings loss, the permanent impairment allowance, supplemental retirement benefits, and the war veterans allowance.
The remaining third of our policies are currently under revision. These policies pertain to disability benefits, the veterans independence program, and long-term care.
I am pleased to say that by March 31, 2013, all of our VAC program policies will be available online for our veterans and their families.
The new policies are simpler to understand. We used more plain language where we could. The policies are also now displayed in a more logical and consistent format, with hyperlinks embedded in the policies that enable you to go to other related policies, information, acts, and regulations.
As indicated before, veterans and their families can now access these policies online for the first time. While policies are also available and are provided when requested, they now can be viewed and filtered in one location whenever needed, without delay, which is really what transformation is about: making life simpler for our veterans and their families and providing veterans with greater access to the services and programs provided by Veterans Affairs.