8/23/2017
1
Getting to Know Veterans: Knowledge to Improve Care at End of Life
Shannon Pointer MSN, RN
Community Educator
Hospice & Palliative Care Center of Alamance-Caswell
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life 41st Annual Hospice & Palliative Care Conference – September 2017 – Asheville, NC
What Will I Learn?
• This Session Will Provide:
– An Overview of The US Armed Forces, America’s Wars as well as Agencies and Organizations that can help improve your ability to care for Veterans at End of Life.
• Review and be able to name resources available to view national and local statistics on Veteran populations.
• Define the branches of US Armed Forces.
• Review America’s Wars and be able to discuss differences between certain war time periods.
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life The Carolinas Center’s 41st Annual Hospice & Palliative Care Conference – September 2017 – Asheville, ,NC
What Will I Learn?
• Identify some inappropriate and appropriate communication strategies with Veterans as well as ways to conduct a self-assessment related to military culture.
• Identify and gain a better understanding of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
• Identify Veteran resources and organizations available in the community.
• Define the We Honor Veterans Program
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
8/23/2017
2
National Statistics
• Veteran Population projections
– Projected Population 21,368,000 Veterans
Question - How do you find national statistics on Veterans?
Answer - The National Center for Veteran Analysis and Statistics
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
Reference: US Department of Veterans Affairs: VA National Center for Veteran Analysis and Statistics. (2017). VA benefits and healthcare utilization pocket card. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/vetdata/docs/pocketcards/Spring_17_Sharepoint.PDF
Future Trends Nationally?
• Veteran population is declining
• Expected increase in Minority and Hispanic Veteran populations
• Decrease in WWI, Korean and Vietnam Era Veterans and increase in Gulf War Veterans
• Veterans moving to the West and South
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
Reference: US Department of Veterans Affairs: VA National Center for Veteran Analysis and Statistics. (2017). The Veteran Population Projection Model 2016 (VetPop2016) VetPop2016 infographic. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/vetdata/docs/Demographics/New_Vetpop_Model/Vetpop_Infographic_Final26.pdf
State Statistics: NC
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
North Carolina Veteran Population FY 2016
Total: 731,378
WarTime Veterans: 567,157
Gulf War: 294,564
Vietnam Era: 233,717
Korean Conflict: 45,516
References: US Department of Veteran Affairs: VA National Center for Veteran Analysis and Statistics. (2016). Veteran population fiscal year 2016. Retrieved from www.va.gov/vetdata/veteran_population.aspUS Department of Veterans Affairs: VA National Center for Veteran Analysis and Statistics. (2015). North Carolina state summary. Retrieved from http://www.va.gov/vetdata/docs/SpecialReports/State_Summaries_North_Carolina.pdf
North Carolina Veteran Population FY 2016
WWII: 18,095
Peacetime: 164,221
Female: 80,382
Male: 650,996
8/23/2017
3
State Statistics: SC
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
South Carolina Veteran Population FY 2016
Total: 403,948
WarTime Veterans: 318,926
Gulf War: 156,696
Vietnam Era: 142,111
Korean Conflict: 26,381
References: US Department of Veteran Affairs: VA National Center for Veteran Analysis and Statistics. (2016). Veteran population fiscal year 2016. Retrieved from www.va.gov/vetdata/veteran_population.aspUS Department of Veterans Affairs: VA National Center for Veteran Analysis and Statistics. (2015). South Carolina state summary. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/vetdata/docs/SpecialReports/State_Summaries_South_Carolina.pdf
South Carolina Veteran Population FY 2016
WWII: 10,578
Peacetime: 85,022
Female: 41,802
Male: 362,146
State Resources: NC and SC
• UNC Carolina Population Center: Carolina Demography. (2014). Data snapshot: North Carolina veterans. Retrieved from
https://demography.cpc.unc.edu/2014/11/10/nc-veterans-2013-data-snapshot/• North Carolina Military and Veterans Affairs. (2015). 2015 NC
veterans annual report. Retrieved fromhttps://ncdmva.s3.amazonaws.com/s3fs-public/press-release/files/2015-ar-final-download_1.pdf• The South Carolina Division of Veterans Affairs Websitehttp://va.sc.gov/index.html• The South Carolina Military and Veteran Services Websitehttp://www.sc.gov/Government/Pages/militaryAndVeteranServices.aspx
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
Local Statistics (2011-2015)
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
Location Veterans (2011-2015)
Alamance County, NC 10,096
Caswell County, NC 1,682
Durham County, NC 15,811
Orange County, NC 5,953
Charleston (city), SC 9,124
North Carolina 696,119
South Carolina 378,959
United States 20,108,332Reference: US Census QuickFacts. Veterans, 2011-2015. Retrieved from https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/table/PST045216/00
8/23/2017
4
Who Is In Charge?
Pre
sid
ent
Secretary DoD Pentagon
Every time zone and every climate!
References: US Department of Defense. (2017). About the department of defense (DoD). Retrieved from http://www.defense.gov/About-DoDMilitary.com. (2016). U.S. armed forces overview. Retrieved from http://www.military.com/join-armed-forces/us-military-overview.html
DoD Headquarters
Military Branches
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
DOD
Dept. of the ArmyArmy
Army Chief of Staff
Dept. of the Air Force
Air Force
Air Force Chief of Staff
Dept. of the Navy
Navy
Chief of Naval Operations
Marines Commandant of
the Marine Corps
Coast GuardDept. of Homeland Security
Reference: US Department of Veterans Affairs: VA Mental Health. (2017). Community provider toolkit Understanding military culture structure & branches. Retrieved from http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/communityproviders/docs/structure_branches.pdf
Categoriess
• Active Duty• Reserve Forces• Guard Forces• Veterans
• Military Retirees• POW/MIA
Others to Remember• Family Members
• Friends• Employers
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
8/23/2017
5
Ranks
• Ranks
–Enlisted
–Non Commissioned
–Warrant Officer
–Commissioned Officer
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
References: -US Department of Veterans Affairs: VA Mental Health. (2017). Community provider toolkit: ranks.Retrieved from http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/communityproviders/docs/ranks.pdf-US Department of Defense. (2017). The United States military rank insignia. Retrieved from http://www.defense.gov/About-DoD/Insignias
Abbreviations/Medals
• Abbreviations
• Medals– Question: Can you name some types of military
medals?
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
Reference: US Department of Veterans Affairs. (2016). National Cemetery Administration. Branch of service abbreviations. Retrieved from http://www.cem.va.gov/CEM/docs/abbreviations/Branch_of_Service.pdf
Medals
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
Quiz Time!
8/23/2017
6
Army, Army Reserve and Army National Guard
• Established: June 14, 1775
• Call Them: Soldiers
• What they do: The dominant land power – land operations, logistics and supports other branches
• Motto: “This We’ll Defend”
• “I’ll Try Sir”
• Song: “The Army Goes Rolling Along”
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
References: The United States Army. (2017). Retrieved from https://www.army.mil/US Department of Veterans Affairs. (2017). Military songs inspire troops, preserve tradition. Retrieved from http://www.va.gov/opa/publications/celebrate/militarysongs.pdfUS Department of Veterans Affairs: VA Mental Health. (2016). Expression of values and ideals by service branch. Retrieved from http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/communityproviders/docs/values.pdf
Navy and Navy Reserve
• Established: October 13, 1775
• Call them: Sailors
• What they do: Maintain freedom of the seas, deter aggression
• Motto: “Semper Fortis, Always Courageous” also “Non sibi sed patriae" (Not self but country)” (unofficial)
• Song: Navy March “Anchors Aweigh” and Navy Hymn “Eternal Father, Strong to Save”
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
References: The United States Navy. (2017). Retrieved from http://www.navy.mil/US Department of Veterans Affairs. (2017). Military songs inspire troops, preserve tradition. Retrieved from http://www.va.gov/opa/publications/celebrate/militarysongs.pdfUS Department of Veterans Affairs: VA Mental Health. (2017). Expression of values and ideals by service branch. Retrieved from http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/communityproviders/docs/values.pdf
Marines and Marine Corps Reserves
• Established: November 10th 1775
• Call them: Marines
• What they do: Disciplined warrior - Trained first as a rifleman
• Motto: Semper Fidelis “Always Faithful”
• Song: “The United States Marine Corps Hymn”
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
References: The United States Marine Corps. (2017). Retrieved from http://www.marines.mil/The United Sates Marine Corps. (2017). Retrieved from http://www.marines.com/homeUS Department of Veterans Affairs. (2017). Military songs inspire troops, preserve tradition. Retrieved from http://www.va.gov/opa/publications/celebrate/militarysongs.pdfUS Department of Veterans Affairs: VA Mental Health. (2017). Expression of values and ideals by service branch. Retrieved from http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/communityproviders/docs/values.pdf
8/23/2017
7
Coast Guardand Coast Guard Reserve
• Established: August 4th, 1790
• Call them: Coast Guardsman
• What they do: Maritime safety, maritime security, maritime stewardship
• Motto: Semper Paratus “Always Ready”
• Song: “The Coast Guard Marching Song”
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
References:The United States Coast Guard. (2017). Retrieved from http://www.uscg.mil/US Department of Veterans Affairs. (2017). Military songs inspire troops, preserve tradition. Retrieved from http://www.va.gov/opa/publications/celebrate/militarysongs.pdfUS Department of Veterans Affairs: VA Mental Health. (2017). Expression of values and ideals by service branch. Retrieved from http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/communityproviders/docs/values.pdf
Air Force, Air Force Reserve,
Air National Guard
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
References:The United States Air Force. (2017). Retrieved from http://www.af.mil/The United States Air Force. (2017). Retrieved from https://www.airforce.com/US Department of Veterans Affairs. (2017). Military songs inspire troops, preserve tradition. Retrieved from http://www.va.gov/opa/publications/celebrate/militarysongs.pdfUS Department of Veterans Affairs: VA Mental Health. (2017). Expression of values and ideals by service branch. Retrieved from http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/communityproviders/docs/values.pdf
• Established September 18th, 1947
• US military first aircraft purchase: 1909
– Aeronautical Section, Signal Corps (1909)
– Aviation Section, Signal Corps (1914)
– United States Army Air Service (1918)
– United States Army Air Corps (1926)
– United States Army Air Forces (1941)
• CALL THEM: AIRMEN
• WHAT THEY DO: AIR AND SPACE
• MOTTO: “AIM HIGH … FLY-FIGHT-
WIN”
• SONG: “US AIR FORCE”
Military Health History
• Military Health History Pocket Card
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
References: US Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (April, 2017). Military health history: Pocket card for health professions, trainees & clinicians. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/OAA/archive/Military-Health-History-Card-for-print.pdfUS Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (2017). Military health history pocket card for clinicians. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/oaa/pocketcard/default.asp
8/23/2017
8
America’s Wars Resource
• Reference:
US Department of Veterans Affairs. (2017). Americas wars. Retrieved from http://www.va.gov/opa/publications/factsheets/fs_americas_wars.pdf
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
WWII (1941-1945)
References: Defense Casualty Analysis System (DCAS). (2017). Conflict casualties. Retrieved from https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/dcas/pages/casualties.xhtmlUS Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (April, 2017). Military health history: Pocket card for health professions, trainees & clinicians. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/OAA/archive/Military-Health-History-Card-for-print.pdfUS Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (2017). World War II. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/oaa/pocketcard/worldwar.asp?p=6
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
Korean War (1950-1953)
References: Defense Casualty Analysis System (DCAS). (2017). Conflict casualties. Retrieved from https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/dcas/pages/casualties.xhtmlUS Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (April, 2017). Military health history: Pocket card for health professions, trainees & clinicians. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/OAA/archive/Military-Health-History-Card-for-print.pdfUS Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (2017). Korean War. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/oaa/pocketcard/korea.asp?p=5
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
8/23/2017
9
Cold War
References: US Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (April, 2017). Military health history: Pocket card for health professions, trainees & clinicians. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/OAA/archive/Military-Health-History-Card-for-print.pdfUS Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (2017). Cold War. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/oaa/pocketcard/coldwar.asp?p=4
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
Vietnam (1964-1975)
References: Defense Casualty Analysis System (DCAS). (2017). Conflict casualties. Retrieved from https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/dcas/pages/casualties.xhtmlUS Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (April, 2017). Military health history: Pocket card for health professions, trainees & clinicians. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/OAA/archive/Military-Health-History-Card-for-print.pdfUS Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (2017). Vietnam War. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/oaa/pocketcard/vietnam.asp?p=3
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
Desert Shield/Desert Storm –
Persian Gulf War (1990-1991)
References: Defense Casualty Analysis System (DCAS). (2017). Conflict casualties. Retrieved from https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/dcas/pages/casualties.xhtmlUS Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (April, 2017). Military health history: Pocket card for health professions, trainees & clinicians. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/OAA/archive/Military-Health-History-Card-for-print.pdf US Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (2017). Gulf War. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/oaa/pocketcard/gulfwar.asp?p=2
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
8/23/2017
10
Other Wars• Global War on Terror (October 2001 - )
• Overseas Contingency Operations (OEF, OIF, OND, OIR & OFS Combined)
• Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF)
• Operation New Dawn (OND)
• Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF)
• Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR)
• Operation Freedom's Sentinel (OFS)
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
Reference:Defense Casualty Analysis System (DCAS). (2017). Conflict casualties. Retrieved from https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/dcas/pages/casualties.xhtmlUS Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (April, 2017). Military health history: Pocket card for health professions, trainees & clinicians. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/OAA/archive/Military-Health-History-Card-for-print.pdfUS Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (2017). Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation New Dawn. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/oaa/pocketcard/oefoif.asp?p=1
Effective Communication
• Ask permission to discuss military service
– Don’t be afraid to ask, just make sure the Veteran wants to discuss their military history with you.
– Do not assume that they want to share – ASK FIRST!
• Thank you for your SERVICE!
• Welcome Home!
• Most Important – LISTEN!
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
References: The Story. (2016). Things to say and not to say to a vet. Retrieved from http://www.thestory.org/things-say-and-not-say-vetOperation We Are Here. (2015). Insights in caring. Retrieved from http://www.wehonorveterans.org/sites/default/files/public/THINGS_YOU_SHOULD_AVOID.pdf
Ineffective Communication
• Questions about whether or not they killed someone
• Questions about what they saw: “Did you see anything gross or nasty?”
• Statements about being glad they are “home” or asking if they are glad to be “home”
• Offering prayer without permission/request from the Veteran
• Why did you go there?
• Was it worth it?
• Others?
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
Reference: Operation We Are Here. (2015). Insights in caring. Retrieved from http://www.wehonorveterans.org/sites/default/files/public/THINGS_YOU_SHOULD_AVOID.pdf
8/23/2017
11
Other Factors to Consider• PTSD at End of Life:
– References: • Scott Janssen, MSW, LCSW. (2017, August 17). PTSD can happen at the end
of life. Retrieved from http://www.kevinmd.com/blog/2017/08/ptsd-can-happen-end-life.html
• National Center for Trauma-Informed Care and Alternatives to Seclusion and Restraint (NCTIC). (2017). Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/nctic
• PTSD: National Center for PTSD. (2017). Retrieved from https://www.ptsd.va.gov/
• Sounds - Think about how sounds could impact a Veteran:– Popping popcorn– Dropping phone on desk– Fireworks– Others?
• Self Assessment – Reference: Uniformed Services University Center for Deployment Psychology. (2016). Self awareness exercise. Retrieved from http://deploymentpsych.org/self-awareness-exercise
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
Veteran Agencies
• US Department of Veterans Affairs
• ADMINISTRATION
– Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
– Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA)
– National Cemetery Administration (NCA)
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
Reference: US Department of Veterans Affairs. (2017). US Department of Veterans Affairs. Retrieved from http://www.va.gov/US Department of Veterans Affairs. (2017). US Department of Veterans Affairs About VA. Retrieved from http://www.va.gov/landing2_about.htm
Getting to Know Veterans
• It’s All About Relationships!
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
8/23/2017
12
NC Resources Veteran Service Officers (VSO)
• NC Department of Military & Veterans Affairs
– Veteran Service Officers
• Local Veteran Service Office contact sheet
• Veteran representatives in Congress and Senate
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
Reference: North Carolina Military and Veteran Affairs. (2016). Veterans affairs. Retrieved from http://www.milvets.nc.gov/landing-page/veterans-affairs
Veteran Organizations
• VFW - https://www.vfw.org/
• American Legion - http://www.legion.org/
• Marine Corp League - http://www.ncmcl.org/
• Montford Point Marines - http://www.montfordpointmarines.com/
• DAV - https://www.dav.org/
• Others:
– Community Colleges
– Goodwill
– Register of Deeds
– Dreams for Veterans
– Veterans Oral History Project
– Others?
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
Survivor Resources
• Contact information for the Office of Survivors Assistance:
– Mail: Department of Veterans Affairs; Office of Survivors Assistance; 1717 H Street NW; Washington, DC 20006
– Phone: 202-461-1077
– Fax: 202-495-5985
– Website: www.va.gov/survivors/
– Email: [email protected]
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
8/23/2017
13
VA Caregiver Support
• https://www.caregiver.va.gov/
– Durham VA Medical Center508 Fulton Street, Durham, NC 27705Phone: 919-286-0411 Or 888-878-6890
Gretchen Horton, MSW, LCSW : 919-695-2432Jasmine Moore, RN: 919-417-6349 Jency Brogden, MSW, LCSW: 919-384-6208
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
We Honor Veterans
• Recruit
• Level 1 – Military History Checklist
• Level 2
• Level 3
• Level 4
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
References: We Honor Veterans. (2017). Retrieved from www.wehonorveterans.orgWe Honor Veterans. (2017). Intake/Admissions: Military history checklist. Retrieved from http://www.wehonorveterans.org/get-practical-resources/resources-topic/intakeadmissionWe Honor Veterans. (2017). We honor veterans campaign fact sheet. Retrieved fromhttp://www.wehonorveterans.org/sites/default/files/public/WHVeteransFactSheet.pdfWe Honor Veterans. (2010). Standards of practice for hospice programs veteran related standards. Retrieved from https://www.wehonorveterans.org/sites/default/files/public/Vet_Related_Standards_Practice.pdf
How Can We Honor Veterans?
• Appreciation Ceremonies
• Medal Ceremonies
• Pinning
• Wall of Honor
• What else can we do to honor Veteran hospice patients in homes, facilities, hospice home, as well as all Veterans within our communities?
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
8/23/2017
14
Honoring Veterans Examples
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
See Slideshow photos during live presentation!
Veterans and ACD
• Help Veterans to Express Their Wishes! • VA Advance Directives• Non-VA Advance Directives
Reference: US Department of Veterans Affairs. (2017). Geriatrics and extended care advance care planning. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/Guide/LongTermCare/advance_Care_Planning.asp
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
References
Please see reference sheet handout for all references used in the development of this
educational activity.
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
8/23/2017
15
Contact Information
Shannon Pointer MSN, RN Community EducatorHospice & Palliative Care Center of Alamance-CaswellOffice: 336-532-0100 Cell: 336-264-9387 Email: [email protected]
“I would like to especially thank all of the We Honor Veterans planning committee members, all of our community
Veterans and agencies who serve Veterans who helped me to learn more so that I can better serve those who served us!”
Innovation and Excellence in Advanced Illness at End of Life
-
As of 4/25/2017
To help a Veteran in crisis, call the 24 hour Crisis Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 option 1
“HOW CAN I HELP YOU?” VA Facility Locator
VA Facility Locator VA facilities including additional state and local resources
Information available at: www.va.gov/landing2_locations.htm
Transition and Veteran Employment Services
Veterans Employment Services Office (VESO)
Helps Veterans and transitioning Military Service Members find federal careers
Military Skills Translator, Resume Builder and Federal Job Search functions
Note: Visit http://explore.va.gov/ to learn about other employment resources provided by VA.
Information available at: www.vaforvets.va.gov 1-855-824-8387
http://explore.va.gov/employment-services
Transition Assistance Program (TAP)
TAP may include: Transition from Service briefings and assistance
Information available at: www.benefits.va.gov/TAP/
Veterans Health Administration
Health Care Benefits or Application Questions
VHA provides: Primary care Mental health care (including Veteran-specific
treatment for PTSD, TBI care, etc.) Preventative care A wide variety of specialty care Inpatient and outpatient pharmacy Geriatric care Long term care and support
Note: For basic information and an easy to understand eligibility quiz with digital resource links go to: http://explore.va.gov/.
Program Information: www.va.gov/healthbenefits/ 1-877-222-VETS (8387)
Eligibility Information: www.va.gov/healthbenefits/apply/veterans.asp
How to Apply: www.vets.gov/healthcare/apply/application/introduction
Application and General Information available at: http://explore.va.gov/health-care provides basic information to Veterans and their families and directs them to the latest online information and application sites. The site’s video gallery holds Veteran testimonial videos about health care.
Access to Patient Medical information
My HealtheVet is VA’s online personal health record system designed to help VA patients manage their healthcare records and notes from medical providers
Blue Button allows you to share info between VA and non VA providers.
Information for both resources available at: www.myhealth.va.gov/index.html 1-877-327-0022
Women Veteran Support
The Women Veterans Health Program addresses health care needs of women Veterans to ensure that timely, equitable, high-quality, comprehensive health care services are available and provided
Information available at: www.womenshealth.va.gov Women Veterans Call Center: 1-855-VA-WOMEN (829-6636)
Rural Veteran Support
The VA Office of Rural Health helps rural Veterans access medical care through VA facilities
Information available at: www.ruralhealth.va.gov
Mental Health Support
Authoritative mental health information and resources for Veterans and their families.
Self-help toolbox Where to get help Comprehensive guide to VA Mental Health Services Veterans Crisis Line website has a live chat function
Information available at: www.mentalhealth.va.gov http://maketheconnection.net/ https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/ (includes chat function) Hotline: 800-273-8255 Press 1
Guide to VA Mental Health Services for Veterans and Families: www.mentalhealth.va.gov/docs/MHG_English.pdf
Veteran (Vet) Center information
Vet Centers provide: Individual and group counseling Discharge upgrade information Community, social service and medical referrals Employee assistance referrals VA Benefits assistance referrals
Information available at: 1-877-WAR-VETS (927-8387)
Locate a Vet Center near you at: www.va.gov/directory/guide/vetcenter.asp
Caregiver Support Program
Caregiver Support provides: Links and resources for caregivers of Veterans Additional support for Caregivers of Veterans with
service connected injuries incurred on or after 911 Phone based support and education
Information available at: www.caregiver.va.gov
Caregiver support line: 1-855-260-3274
Homeless Veteran Immediately call the 24-hour National Call Center for Homeless Veterans 1-877-4AID-VET (4243-838)
For information about VA Health Care, call the VHA Helpline: 1-877-222-VETS (8387) Monday Friday 8am-8pm EST*
*Call back service may be available after hours
-
To help a Veteran in crisis, call the 24 hour Crisis Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 option 1
As of 05/25/2016
“HOW CAN I HELP YOU?” Veterans Benefits Administration
Benefits Information Basic information about programs, eligibility, links to Information available at: & Eligibility online application sites, testimonial videos, and an easy www.benefits.va.gov/benefits/ Questions to understand eligibility quiz with digital resource links
are available on http://explore.va.gov/ A hardcopy and online handbook is available for
benefits and qualifications information Further benefits and eligibility information is available at
ebenefits.va.gov
1-800-827-1000
http://explore.va.gov/
Benefits Handbook: www.va.gov/opa/publications/benefits_book.asp
Benefits Applications Information, forms, and phone numbers are available All forms and applications available at: & Claim Questions online for Veterans and their dependents
Links to online application sties and other online resources where Veterans can get answers are on http://explore.va.gov/.
www.ebenefits.va.gov/
Videos that explain how to fill out select forms: www.benefits.va.gov/BENEFITS/videos.asp
Home Loan Guaranty Program Questions
or Payment on a VA-Provided Home Loan
VA guarantees loans made by private lenders. The VA provides Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grants for severely disabled Veterans
Note: VHA provides HISA grants to eligible Veterans for use in modifying a home. These are smaller grants.
All forms and information available at: www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/index.asp 1-877-827-3702
http://explore.va.gov/home-loans-and-housing
Vocational The VR&E program provides: Information available at: Rehabilitation and Assistance in finding employment with programs such www.benefits.va.gov/vocrehab Employment (VR&E) as vocational assessments, counseling, education Information tuition/stipends related to employment and employment
planning Note: Links to VR&E as well as other employment resources can be found on http://explore.va.gov/
http://explore.va.gov/employment-services
Education and Post- The post-9/11 GI Bill pays higher education tuition, Information available at: 9/11 GI Bill Benefits housing, and stipends for Veterans, service members
or their dependents Eligibility - served at least 90 days on active duty after
9/10/2001 An important starting point - GI Bill Comparison Tool
www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/ 1-888-GIBILL-1 (442-4551)
http://explore.va.gov/education-training www.vets.gov/gi-bill-comparison-tool
Pension Pension benefits descriptions, eligibility, and application forms are available online.
Basic info, forms and links to resources for Veterans Pensions, Survivors Pension and Special Monthly Pension for Veterans on http://explore.va.gov/.
Information available at:
www.benefits.va.gov/pension/
http://explore.va.gov/pension
Fiduciary Program for Veterans and other beneficiaries who, due to injury, disease, or due to age, are unable to manage their financial affairs
Apply for benefit or to become a fiduciary for a Veteran
Information available at:
www.benefits.va.gov/fiduciary
Insurance and Veterans are eligible for: All forms and information available at: TSGLI/SGLI Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance (S-DVI), Service www.benefits.va.gov/insurance Questions members’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI), Veterans’
Group Life Insurance (VGLI), and/or Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI), SGLI Traumatic Injury Protection (TSGLI), Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Disability Extension (SGIL-DE), Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI),
1-800-419-1473
http://explore.va.gov/life-insurance
Disability Disability compensation is a tax-free benefit paid to All forms and information available at: Compensation eligible Veterans www.benefits.va.gov/compensation/types-disability.asp Questions Eligibility is determined by injuries/diseases
from/aggravated by service http://explore.va.gov/disability-compensation
Dependency & Dependents may be awarded tax-free benefits for: All forms and information available at: Indemnity Death during military service or post-service related to www.benefits.va.gov/compensation/types-Compensation for a service-connected disability dependency_and_indemnity.asp Veteran’s Death after extended period of 100 percent disability Dependents Note: Links and information to VA benefits and services
available to dependents, survivors and spouses are available on http://explore.va.gov/. DIC is just one of many benefits available to this group
http://explore.va.gov/spouses-dependents-survivors
For information about benefits, call the VBA Hotline: 1-800-827-1000 Monday Friday 8am-9pm EST* *Call back service may be available after hours
As of 05/25/2016
“HOW CAN I HELP YOU?”
National Cemetery Administration
Burial and Memorial Benefits Information
VA offers Veterans and their dependents: Burial and honoring services, including gravesites and
grave liners Maintenance of national cemeteries Headstones, markers, and presidential memorial
certificates Note: VBA manages additional memorial benefits
Information available at: www.cem.va.gov 1-800-535-1117
Application and benefit information about both VBA and NCA managed memorial benefits available at: http://explore.va.gov/.
Board of Veterans Appeals
Claims Appeal Process information
A Veteran or dependent/caregiver has a full year to appeal a denied claim regarding any VA benefit. To appeal, file a Notice of Disagreement with the Administration that denied the benefit
The appeals process has many stages, and most of the appeals processing and resolutions take place in the Administration that made the initial claims decision
Information available at: www.bva.va.gov
Appeal Process Pamphlet: www.bva.va.gov/docs/Pamphlets/How-Do-I-Appeal-Booklet--508Compliance.pdf
General VA Resources
Other VA resources To access the VA social media properties go to the VA homepage and click on the icons on the right hand top of the page. Or use the links below.
Links available at: www.va.gov
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/VeteransAffairs
Twitter https://twitter.com/DeptVetAffairs/
Flicker https://www.flickr.com/photos/VeteransAffairs/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deptvetaffairs/
Youtube https://www.youtube.com/user/DeptVetAffairs
Vantage Point blog http://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/
MyVA blog https://myva.va.gov/blog/
VA Pulse https://www.vapulse.net/welcome
ExploreVA Explore social media content cleared by VA, VHA, VBA and NCA for internal and external sharing
https://explore.va.gov/outreach-sharing
General VA Resources Continued
VA Website www.va.gov
One stop Information Service 1-844-698-2311
VA Benefits Info 1-800-827-1000
VA Health Care Info 1-877-222-VETS (8387)
24-Hour Hotline for Homeless Vets 1-877-4AID-VET (4243-838)
24-Hour Veteran Crisis Hotline 1-800-273-8255 option 1
General VA Information VA Website
1
Getting to Know Veterans: Knowledge to Improve Care at End of Life- List of references used for developing this educational activity:
1. US Department of Veterans Affairs. VA National Center for Veteran Analysis and Statistics. (March, 2017). Profile of veterans: 2015 data from the american community survey. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/vetdata/docs/SpecialReports/Profile_of_Veterans_2015.pdf.
2. US Department of Veterans Affairs: VA National Center for Veteran Analysis and Statistics. (2017). VA benefits and healthcare utilization pocket card. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/vetdata/docs/pocketcards/Spring_17_Sharepoint.PDF
3. US Department of Veterans Affairs: VA National Center for Veteran Analysis and Statistics. (2017). The Veteran Population Projection
Model 2016 (VetPop2016) VetPop2016 infographic. Retrieved from
https://www.va.gov/vetdata/docs/Demographics/New_Vetpop_Model/Vetpop_Infographic_Final26.pdf
4. US Department of Veterans Affairs: VA National Center for Veteran Analysis and Statistics. (2015). North Carolina state summary. Retrieved from http://www.va.gov/vetdata/docs/SpecialReports/State_Summaries_North_Carolina.pdf
5. US Department of Veteran Affairs: VA National Center for Veteran Analysis and Statistics. (2016). Veteran population fiscal year 2016. Retrieved from www.va.gov/vetdata/veteran_population.asp
6. US Department of Veterans Affairs: VA National Center for Veteran Analysis and Statistics. (2015). South Carolina state summary. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/vetdata/docs/SpecialReports/State_Summaries_South_Carolina.pdf
7. UNC Carolina Population Center: Carolina Demography. (2014). Data snapshot: North Carolina veterans. Retrieved from https://demography.cpc.unc.edu/2014/11/10/nc-veterans-2013-data-snapshot/
8. North Carolina Military and Veterans Affairs. (2015). 2015 NC veterans annual report. Retrieved from https://ncdmva.s3.amazonaws.com/s3fs-public/press-release/files/2015-ar-final-download_1.pdf
9. The South Carolina Division of Veterans Affairs Website. Retrieved from http://va.sc.gov/index.html 10. The South Carolina Military and Veteran Services Website. Retrieved from
http://www.sc.gov/Government/Pages/militaryAndVeteranServices.aspx 11. United States Census Bureau. (2016). US census quickfacts. Retrieved from https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/table/PST045216/00 12. US Department of Defense. (2017). About the department of defense (DoD). Retrieved from http://www.defense.gov/About-DoD 13. US Department of Veterans Affairs: VA Mental Health. (2016). Community provider toolkit: understanding military culture structure &
branches. Retrieved from http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/communityproviders/docs/structure_branches.pdf 14. US Department of Veterans Affairs: VA Mental Health. (2016). Chain of command & authority. Retrieved from
http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/communityproviders/docs/command_authority.pdf 15. US Department of Veterans Affairs: VA Mental Health. (2016). Common terms & lingo. Retrieved from
http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/communityproviders/docs/terms_lingo.pdf 16. US Department of Veterans Affairs: VA Mental Health. (2016). Community provider toolkit. Retrieved from
http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/communityproviders/military_culture.asp 17. US Department of Veterans Affairs: VA Mental Health. (2017). Community provider toolkit: ranks. Retrieved from
http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/communityproviders/docs/ranks.pdf
2
18. US Department of Veterans Affairs: Integrated Mental Health Strategy. (2017). Retrieved from http://deploymentpsych.org/system/files/member_resource/MCT_Provider_Resources_Military_Rank_Chart.pdf
19. US Department of Veterans Affairs. (2016). National Cemetery Administration. Branch of service abbreviations. Retrieved from
http://www.cem.va.gov/CEM/docs/abbreviations/Branch_of_Service.pdf
20. US Department of Defense. (2016). The United States military rank insignia. Retrieved from http://www.defense.gov/About-DoD/Insignias
21. The United States Army. (2017). Retrieved from https://www.army.mil/ 22. US Department of Veterans Affairs. (2017). Military songs inspire troops, preserve tradition. Retrieved from
http://www.va.gov/opa/publications/celebrate/militarysongs.pdf 23. US Department of Veterans Affairs: VA Mental Health. (2016). Expression of values and ideals by service branch. Retrieved from
http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/communityproviders/docs/values.pdf 24. Military.com. (2016). U.S. armed forces overview. Retrieved from http://www.military.com/join-armed-forces/us-military-overview.html 25. Military.com. (2016). Guard and reserve frequently asked questions. Retrieved from http://www.military.com/join-armed-forces/guard-
and-reserve-faqs.html 26. The United States Navy. (2017). Retrieved from http://www.navy.mil/
27. The United States Marine Corps. (2017). Retrieved from http://www.marines.mil/ 28. The United Sates Marine Corps. (2017). Retrieved from http://www.marines.com/home 29. The United States Coast Guard. (2017). Retrieved from http://www.uscg.mil/ 30. The United States Air Force. (2017). Retrieved from http://www.af.mil/ 31. The United States Air Force. (2017). Retrieved from https://www.airforce.com/ 32. US Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (April, 2017). Military health history:
Pocket card for health professions, trainees & clinicians. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/OAA/archive/Military-Health-History-Card-for-print.pdf
33. US Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (2017). Military health history pocket card for clinicians. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/oaa/pocketcard/default.asp
34. US Department of Veterans Affairs. (2017). Americas wars. Retrieved from (http://www.va.gov/opa/publications/factsheets/fs_americas_wars.pdf
35. Defense Casualty Analysis System (DCAS). (2017). Conflict Casualties. Retrieved from https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/dcas/pages/casualties.xhtml
36. US Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (2017). World War II. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/oaa/pocketcard/worldwar.asp?p=6
37. US Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (2017). Korean War. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/oaa/pocketcard/korea.asp?p=5
3
38. US Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (2017). Cold War. Retrieved from https://www.va.gov/oaa/pocketcard/coldwar.asp?p=4
39. US Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (2017). Vietnam War. Retrieved from 40. https://www.va.gov/oaa/pocketcard/vietnam.asp?p=3 41. US Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (2017). Gulf War. Retrieved from
https://www.va.gov/oaa/pocketcard/gulfwar.asp?p=2 42. US Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Health Administration, Office of Academic Affiliations. (2017). Operation Enduring
Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation New Dawn. Retrieved from 43. https://www.va.gov/oaa/pocketcard/oefoif.asp?p=1 44. Operation We Are Here. (2015). Insights in caring. Retrieved from
http://www.wehonorveterans.org/sites/default/files/public/THINGS_YOU_SHOULD_AVOID.pdf 45. The Story. (2016). Things to say and not to say to a vet. Retrieved from http://www.thestory.org/things-say-and-not-say-vet 46. Scott Janssen, MSW, LCSW. (2017, August 17). PTSD can happen at the end of life. Retrieved from
http://www.kevinmd.com/blog/2017/08/ptsd-can-happen-end-life.html 47. National Center for Trauma-Informed Care and Alternatives to Seclusion and Restraint (NCTIC). (2017). Retrieved from
https://www.samhsa.gov/nctic 48. PTSD: National Center for PTSD. (2017). Retrieved from https://www.ptsd.va.gov/ 49. Uniformed Services University Center for Deployment Psychology. (2016). Self awareness exercise. Retrieved from
http://deploymentpsych.org/self-awareness-exercise 50. US Department of Veterans Affairs. (2016). US Department of Veterans Affairs. Retrieved from http://www.va.gov/ 51. US Department of Veterans Affairs. (2016). US Department of Veterans Affairs. About VA. Retrieved from
http://www.va.gov/landing2_about.htm 52. US Department of Veterans Affairs. (2017). Veterans Health Administration. Retrieved from http://www.va.gov/health/ 53. US Department of Veterans Affairs. (2017). Veterans Benefits Administration. Retrieved from http://www.benefits.va.gov/benefits 54. US Department of Veterans Affairs. (2017). National Cemetery Administration. Retrieved from https://www.cem.va.gov/ 55. North Carolina Military and Veteran Affairs. (2016). Veterans affairs. Retrieved from http://www.milvets.nc.gov/landing-page/veterans-
affairs 56. Veterans of Foreign Wars. Retrieved from https://www.vfw.org/ 57. The American Legion. Retrieved from http://www.legion.org/ 58. National Montford Point Marine Association. Retrieved from http://www.montfordpointmarines.com/ 59. Department of North Carolina Marine Corps League. Retrieved from http://www.ncmcl.org/ 60. Disabled American Veterans. Retrieved from https://www.dav.org/ 61. Dreams for Veterans. Retrieved from www.dreamfoundation.org/veterans 62. NC Veterans Oral History Project. Retrieved from http://www.ncvetoralhistory.org/about-1.html 63. Office of Survivor Assistance. Retrieved from https://www.caregiver.va.gov/
4
64. Durham VA Medical Center. Retrieved from https://www.durham.va.gov/ 65. VA Caregiver Support. Retrieved from https://www.caregiver.va.gov/ 66. We Honor Veterans. (2017). Retrieved from www.wehonorveterans.org 67. We Honor Veterans. (2017). Intake/Admissions: Military history checklist. Retrieved from http://www.wehonorveterans.org/get-
practical-resources/resources-topic/intakeadmission 68. We Honor Veterans. (2017). We honor veterans campaign fact sheet. Retrieved from
http://www.wehonorveterans.org/sites/default/files/public/WHVeteransFactSheet.pdf 69. We Honor Veterans. (2010). Standards of practice for hospice programs veteran related standards. Retrieved from
https://www.wehonorveterans.org/sites/default/files/public/Vet_Related_Standards_Practice.pdf 70. US Department of Veterans Affairs. (2017). Geriatrics and extended care advance care planning. Retrieved from
https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/Guide/LongTermCare/advance_Care_Planning.asp Other References: - DVAMC Contact Info Sheet 2017 - Veteran Service Officer Sheets Example - NC Veteran Resource Guide 2017 -VA “How Can I Help You” Sheet
Military Health History
General Questions
Sexual Harassment, Assault, and Trauma
Compensation & Benefits
Call VA at 1-800-827-1000 or 844-MyVA311 (698-2311)Office of Academic Affiliations
www.va.gov/oaa/pocketcard/
Post-DeploymentHealth Services
www.publichealth.va.gov/about/postdeploymenthealth/
Veterans Health InitiativeIndependent Study Courses
www.publichealth.va.gov/healthinitiative/
War-Related Illness andInjury Study Center
www.warrelatedillness.va.gov
Information for Veterans:Compensation & Pension Benefits
www.benefits.va.gov/compensation/
Living Situation
Living Situation
“I had some unique experiences while serving our country, many that civilians would never have. Some of those experiences may be affecting my health, and that
is why I am here at VA.”
“Help me understand my medical condition, and
please be patient with me. Some of my memories may be painful or difficult to discuss.”
Do you have a service-connected condition?Would you like assistance in filing for compensationfor injuries/illnesses related to your service?
Would it be ok if I talked with you about your military experience? When and where did you/do you serve and in what branch?What type of work did you/do you do while in the service?Did you have any illnesses or injuries while in the service?
Would it be ok to talk about sexual harassment or trauma thatyou might have experienced? Have you ever experienced physical, emotional, or sexual harassment or trauma?Is this past experience causing you problems now?Would you like a referral for some help with that? Many people find it helpful to get some support.
Would it be ok to talk about your living situation? Where do you live and who do you live with? Is your housing safe?Are you in any danger of losing your housing?Do you need assistance in caring for yourself and/or dependents?
POCKET CARD FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONS TRAINEES & CLINICIANS
“Help me understand my medical condition.”
Asking the questions on this card will be helpful inunderstanding my medical problems and concerns.
“Can you tell me more about that?”
If your patient answers “Yes” to any of the following questions, ask:
Did you ever become ill while you were in the service?Were you or a buddy wounded, injured, or hospitalized?Did you have a head injury with loss of consciousness,loss of memory, “seeing stars” or being temporarily disoriented?Did you see combat, enemy fire, or casualties?Were you a prisoner of war?
Veterans Health AdministrationOffice of Academic Affiliations
IB 10-463, P96532APRIL 2017
Ask all military service members and all Veterans Common Service-Related Exposure Concerns
Exposure Concerns Military Environmental Exposures (Any Era)
Gulf War/Southwest Asia (Afghanistan, Kuwait, Iraq)
Vietnam, Korean DMZ & Thailand
Cold War
WWII & Korean War
Behavior
Blood Borne Viruses (Hepatitis & HIV)
Veterans Crisis Line 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)or 1-844-MyVA311 (698-2311)
Would it be okay if I asked about some things you may have been exposed to during your service?
Would it be okay if we talked about emotional responses during your service?
What... were you exposed to?
PTSD: Have you been concerned that you might suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder? Symptoms can include numbing, re-experiencing symptoms, hyperarousal/being on guard, and/or avoiding situations that remind(s) you of the trauma.
Burn Pit SmokeCold InjuriesContaminated Water(benzene, trichloroethylene, vinyl chloride)Endemic DiseasesHeat Stroke/Exhaustion
Animal Bites/RabiesBlunt TraumaBurn Injuries (Blast Injuries)Chemical or Biological AgentsChemical Munitions DemolitionCombined Penetrating InjuriesDepleted Uranium (DU)Dermatologic IssuesEmbedded Fragments (shrapnel)
Occupational Hazards: Asbestos, Industrial Solvents, Lead, Radiation,Fuels, PCBs, Noise/Vibration, Chemical Agent Resistant Coating (CARC)
Immunizations: Anthrax, Botulinum Toxoid, Smallpox, Yellow Fever,Typhoid, Cholera, Hepatitis B, Meningitis, Whooping Cough, Polio, TetanusInfectious Diseases: Malaria, Brucellosis, Campylobacter jejuni,Coxiella burnetii, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, nontyphoid Salmonella,Shigella, visceral Leishmaniasis, West Nile Virus
Hexavalent ChromiumMustard GasNerve AgentsPesticidesRadiation (Ionizing & Non-Ionizing)Sand, Dust, Smoke, and ParticulatesTCDD, herbicides, other dioxins
Malaria Prevention: Mefloquine – LariamMental Health IssuesMulti-Drug Resistant AcinetobacterOil Well FiresReproductive Health IssuesSpinal Cord InjuryTraumatic AmputationTraumatic Brain InjuryVision Loss
Depression: Have you been experiencing sadness, feelings of hopelessness/helplessness, lack of energy, difficulty concentrat-ing, and/or poor sleep?Risk Assessment: Have you had thoughts of harming yourself or others?
What... precautions were taken? (Avoidance, PPE, Treatment)How... long was the exposure?How... concerned are you about the exposure?Where... were you exposed?When... were you exposed?Who... else may have been affected? Unit name, etc.
Chemical (pollution, solvents, weapons, etc.)Biological (infectious diseases, weapons)Psychological (mental or emotional abuse, moral injury)Physical Blast or explosionMunitions or bullet wound
RadiationShell fragmentHeat
Vehicular crashNoise/VibrationOther injury
Do you have tattoos? Have you ever injected or snorted drugs, such as heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine?Have you ever been screened for Hepatitis C or HIV? If not,would you like to be screened for these?
Agent Orange Exposure
Chemical Warfare Agent Experiments
Cold Injuries
Nuclear Weapons Testing or Cleanup
Nuclear Weapons Testing or CleanupBiological Warfare Agents
Hepatitis C Risks
www.myhealth.va.govTell your patient about VA’s
Gateway to Veteran Health Benefits and Services
Chemical Warfare Agent ExperimentsCold Injuries
Find out more about military exposureswww.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/
Durham VA Fact Sheet for Hospice Partners Durham VAMC
508 Fulton Street Durham, NC 27705 Phone: (919) 286-0411 Fax: (919) 286-6825 Toll-Free: (888) 878-6890 Name and contact for Regional (VISN) office: VA Mid-Atlantic Health Care Network (VISN6) 300 W. Morgan Street, Ste. 700 Durham, NC 27701 Phone: (919) 956-5541 Fax: (919) 956-7152
Palliative care contact and alternate: name, title, phone number; fax; email: Jamie Grant, LCSW, Hospice & Palliative Care Coordinator Phone: 919 286-0411 X 7218 Fax: 919-416-8012 [email protected]
Toni Cutson MD, MHS, Medical Director Phone: 919 286-0411 X6448 or page 919 970-5067 [email protected]
After hours contact: Dr. Cutson
Service area covered by VA: NC, southern VA
Palliative Care Consult Team: Toni Cutson MD, Brian Talbott MD, Katja Elbert-Avila MD, Michaelene Moore NP, Jamie Grant LCSW, Christine Milam Chp, Jessica Fulton Psych, Anne Adams RN, Cindy Johnson Pharmacist Inpatient Unit: 10 bed Hospice Unit Palliative Care Services: Our consult team sees veterans in both the inpatient and outpatient settings as requested. We currently have a formal outpatient clinic on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings. For community and home hospice services the VA collaborates with community hospice agencies to provide this care in their community. The veteran may choose to use his/her Medicare or VA pay as payer source.
Process for expedited enrollment and approval of VA-paid hospice services: [Include the name and contact information and a brief description of the process]: Referred to VSO in county
Name and contact information for approval of VA paid hospice, changes in hospice levels of care or changes in hospice levels of care: Jamie Grant SW or Toni Cutson MD (above)
Death notification requirement: Community hospice contact Decedent Affairs or Palliative Care
Business office contact for reimbursement and billing issues: Fee Basis, Hillandale Office 919 286-0411 X 6979, 6097
Decedent Affairs Officer: Mr. James Lawson, 919 286-0411 X 6226
PTSD resource: name, title, phone number: Josephine Allen 919 286-0411 X 7977
Homeless coordinator: name, title, phone number: Bob Williamson, 919 286-0411 X 6045
Vet Center: Raleigh Vet Center 1649 Old Louisburg Rd Raleigh, NC 27604
RESOURCES: National Suicide prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK National Cemetery information: www.cem.va.gov/
Death and Burial benefits www.cem.va.gov/bbene/benvba.asp
Military discharge information: www.vba.va.gov/vba/benefits/offices.asp
We Honor Veterans: www.wehonorveterans.org
Top Related