A short history of the Veterans Administration's influence on aphasia assessment tools

Background: The United States Veterans Administration (VA) has a long history of supporting medical developments, including those in the rehabilitation sciences. Its large patient population, numerous facilities, and funding of research, education, and training have resulted in many medical advances. Its positive influences also have extended to the profession of speech-language pathology, particularly regarding the assessment and treatment of aphasia. Aims: This paper is a short review of how the VA has contributed significantly to the development of aphasia assessment tools. Beginning with the Minnesota Test for Differential Diagnosis of Aphasia in 1948, the VA has played an essential role in the creation of a number of well-known, widely used aphasia tests. Methods Procedures: Ten major aphasia assessment tools that had significant VA involvement are examined. The features of each test are described, as well as how the VA contributed to the test's development. Conclusions: VA's substantial support was an essential part in the development of these important aphasia assessment tools.