Navigating health care can be challenging, especially with the unique needs and experiences that come with military service. Understanding your resources and specific health concerns can make a big difference in your quality of life. Here are five key things veterans should know about their health care.
Use your VA benefits
You might not be fully using the health care services available to you through the Veterans Affairs (VA). It’s important to explore these benefits, especially if you’re dealing with conditions like PTSD, amputations or other service-related injuries. The VA offers comprehensive care tailored to your needs – make sure you take advantage of it.
Marshfield Clinic also provides Veteran Services Care Coordinators in Marshfield and Ladysmith. They can help connect you to health care, community services, and the VA benefits you’ve earned.
Know your rights and benefits
You have access to more than just health care. There are benefits for education, housing and financial assistance.
Understanding and using these resources can greatly improve your overall well-being. Make it a habit to review your eligibility and stay informed about what’s available to you.
“The benefits available to you and your family depend on your level of service-connected disability,” said Elliott Alcantara, Veteran Services Care Coordinator. “These include programs like the Wisconsin GI Bill, which provides education benefits not only for veterans but also for their children. These are hard-earned benefits paid for through your service; don’t let them go unused.”
Prioritize preventive care
Preventive care is essential for staying healthy long-term. Just like civilians, you should schedule regular check-ups, screenings and vaccinations. These can help catch health issues early, before they become serious. Your military health history might mean you need more frequent or specialized preventive care.
“Veterans frequently have additional exposures related to their service that can impact cancers we routinely screen for (liver, breast, prostate) that put them at higher risk for these cancers,” said Michael Conard, physician assistant at Marshfield Clinic. “Routine screening as part of the annual preventative exam offers the veteran that best chance of catching these early and treating them effectively.”
Understand toxic exposure risks
If you served in the Gulf War or were exposed to burn pits or Agent Orange, you may face specific health risks. The PACT Act expands your VA health care benefits if you were exposed to these toxic substances.
Burn pits have been linked to cancers and respiratory illnesses, while Agent Orange exposure can lead to high blood pressure or conditions like MGUS, which may develop into more serious blood disorders. These exposures can also contribute to chronic conditions like neurodegenerative diseases.
Be sure to learn about the PACT Act and how it may apply to you. Your VetCoor can help explain what this means and guide you through the process.
“Many veterans, especially Vietnam Era, are not aware that they have new presumptive conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes mellitus,” said Teresa Meyers, veteran service care coordinator with Marshfield Clinic. “The VetCoor team is here to assist veterans to determine if they may be eligible for additional disability benefits.”
Take care of your mental health
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. You may experience PTSD, depression, anxiety or other challenges related to your service. Warning signs include:
- Flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance or emotional numbness.
- Persistent sadness, loss of interest, fatigue or suicidal thoughts
- Excessive worry, panic attacks or restlessness
- Memory issues, mood swings or trouble concentrating
- Increased alcohol or drug use
The VA offers mental health services like counseling and therapy. You can also get care at Marshfield Clinic, and your VetCoor can help you find peer support groups in your community.
We’re here for you
You deserve health care that understands and respects your service. By staying informed and using the resources available to you, you can take control of your health and well-being.
Check out military and veteran services at Marshfield Clinic.
Learn more about Military and Veterans Services Call the service team at 715-858-9199
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