Preparation For The Next Life

United States war veterans face numerous challenges in finding and receiving the healthcare they need upon returning home. These challenges stem from a variety of factors: limited access to care, long wait times for care, mental health issues, and the complexity of the Veterans Administration (VA) system. Limited access to primary care or specialist doctors in rural areas of the United States or overpopulated areas makes receiving necessary care almost impossible for many veterans. Long wait times in VA facilities due to high demand for VA services can force veterans to wait weeks or months for health care appointments. This lack of access can lead to the delayed treatment of serious health concerns, exacerbating untreated symptoms and increasing the risk of complications in these patients; this can be especially challenging for veterans with chronic health conditions or mental health needs that require ongoing care and support.

Patients seeking care for mental health concerns and conditions are often faced with more challenges than help. Many veterans are diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions resulting from their military service. According to the VA, approximately half of all returning veterans need some form of mental health care after their military service.