Ready to care for Veteran mental health in the primary care setting

ABSTRACT: A significant portion of Veterans have been seriously injured during service to the military and only about 1/3 of Veterans receive care in the Veteran Affairs health care system. Health care providers should be aware of the environmental risks to health conditions, specifically mental health conditions and have guidance on how to provide Veteran-informed, culturally competent care. This article explores important health care risk related information about military service, how to talk to patients about their Veteran status, and how to empower providers with resources to support this vulnerable population.