Veterans’ Health: Insights for Nurse Practitioner Practice

Military veterans have a high prevalence of psychosocial concerns and multimorbidity at an early age, creating unique health care challenges. Military culture can create barriers to seeking health care. The United States Department of Veterans Affairs has been increasing veterans’ access to care, improving mental health services, managing conditions related to military exposure, and extending caregiver support. A considerable proportion of veterans seek health care in non-Veterans Affairs settings. Community providers may be less familiar with veterans’ complex health care needs and resources. With increased awareness of veterans’ health care conditions and veteran-specific resources, providers are better equipped to serve veterans, resulting in better health outcomes.

Duke Scholars

Author Letha Joseph School of Nursing